It’s a New Year, which comes with a whole new set of design trends. So, what’s new and what are we carrying over from 2022? Let’s take a deep dive into my favourite trends for new homes in 2023.
The home of Perth designer Mon Palmer
Nature-Inspired Spaces
This trend has a firm foothold in interiors and is not going anywhere, especially in the wake of the prevalence of working from home. Human’s affinity with the natural world continues to connect us to “biophilic” interior design, with evidence suggesting there are several health and wellbeing benefits to being surrounded by nature. Some of these include better mood, reduced stress, improved self-esteem and boosted energy. So, naturally, spending time in a space influenced by nature makes sense – especially for urban dwellers!
Biophilic design incorporates characteristics that are rich in nature and nature-inspired features. So, I’m talking organic forms, natural and raw materials like wood, rattan, jute and stone, with an earthy colour palette for a subtle nod to the trend. Or, for those a little more adventurous, take the trend quite literally with wallpapers depicting nature from delicate wildflowers to flamboyant leafy scenes, swathes of indoor plants and bolder palettes including oceanic blues and soft leafy greens. As always, designs that nurture a direct connection to outdoors zones and capture green aspects through windows and doors are an absolute priority in any home.
Art Deco Decor
Expect a return to more elegant and traditional styles as we step away from the starkly linear minimalist design that has dominated in recent years. Enter (or re-enter, as it were) Art Deco, with its sleek curves, ornate details, and geometric opulence. You’ll see a lot more classic influences throughout homes, from fixtures and fittings through to furnishing and décor.
Material-wise, pair glass, steel, and a luxe vibe for interiors – think geometric wallpaper, herringbone flooring, modern chandeliers, shiny fixtures and fittings, richly textured plush sofas and heavy drapes. Rotate in a Deco-era antique into your scheme and buy more modernist art. Emulate a touch of Deco style if you don’t want to go all in, by adding decorative and embellished Art-Deco-inspired homewares.
A Perth home with plenty of Art Deco style, built by Bacic Group.
Design by ABI Interiors. Photo: Dylan James Photography
Getting Ahead of The Curve
A curved form is subconsciously read as safe, friendly, and welcoming. Curves give off a relaxing, calming softness and rounded organic appearance, which creates a natural flow that can be missing from more angular or geometric spaces.
Softer shapes and angles will (still) be a big trend this year. While curved architecture – such as archways and walls – have been increasingly popular over the last few years, in 2023 we’ll see curved furniture feature in lounge rooms across the country.
Think curved lounges and round dining tables that just feel good, paired with rounded corners to benchtops and soft edges to mirror arched windows and doors.
Experiment with Energetic Colour
Brights are the go at home to revive and energise in 2023. Electric hues that bring joy are still on trend, although a little more grounded than the tones indicated last year.
This year experiment with big, bright, and bold tones and use colour to uplift your spirits. Don’t be afraid of bold fabrics and strongly patterned wallpapers, which continue to be a dominant element in interiors.
Colour is a very personal, subjective interiors addition so any colour goes, but my money’s on citrus, peachy pinks, cobalt blues, lavender and emerald. Have some fun with it, whether that’s through a feature wall, art, or décor. If you grow tired of your bold move, these are easily swapped out!
Styled by Bree Leech for Dulux. Photo: Lisa Cohen.
Bathroom by Three Birds Renovation.
Slip into Soothing Pastels
Moody, earthy hues add a “sense of calm and order” at home and will be a key trend throughout 2023. Grounding and calming tones enhance relaxation and connection, especially in nature-inspired tones that foster stillness and calm. I think we’ll see this reflected in the use of sage greens, which nod to the beauty of nature. These will be balanced with the comforting warmth of soft pinks and cashmere.
Mix pastels with plenty of texture, such as knits, wools, and weaves. Tactile furniture including lush velvet ottomans and armchairs and plush upholstered sofas will soften contemporary architectural features, while sophisticated décor will see patterns inspired by nature become a popular choice.
Sustainability is King
Designers are seeing an increased awareness on the effects of consumerism and consideration for a product’s environmental impact from homeowners. This growing awareness means our industry can instigate change through the way we design and the products we specify. When building, I believe homeowners are now not only looking at the lifecycle of the products they use, but also the passive energy consumption, general waste, and repurposing waste materials where possible.
In addition, locally sourced furniture and materials will also help reduce the embodied energy component that goes into a building, the effects of consumerism, and wastage. I’ve seen a huge swing towards sustainable furniture, with Perth homeowners looking to source local and quality-made furniture, soft furnishings and artwork. Some are also favouring recycled furniture and plastics. Check out one of my favourites, Bespoke Furniture, who offer recycled hard and soft furnishings to suit popular themes such as Hamptons and Mid-Century modern.
Bespoke Furniture offer recycled hard and soft furnishings to suit popular themes such as Mid-Century modern.