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This is going to be an exciting year for interior design! There are so many emerging trends this year, you are bound to find something you like. Some trends are a continuation of hot themes from 2007. For instance, last year eco-friendly designs became more mainstream. You'll find even more organic, natural and recycled products this year.
Here are my top picks for what is new and exciting in 2008:
Wallcoverings – Yes, it's true. Wallcoverings, including wallpaper, are making a huge comeback. However, don't expect to see the same old borders and traditional designs. Look for exquisite grass cloths, bold prints, and global influences in patterns. I love putting rich, luxurious wallpaper in an unexpected area, such as a powder room.
X Marks the Spot – This year, you will start seeing "X" designs everywhere. The international and Highpoint design shows featured X's in carved furniture, upholstery, and accessories. Some X designs are very subtle and appear to be part of a larger pattern, while others are bold and geometric.
Bigger is Better – Everything feels oversized in 2008. From dramatic chandeliers to enormous couches, you'll find pieces that are physically larger than in the past. While I love furniture and accessories that feel substantial, this look is not for everyone. For instance, if you have smaller end tables and armoires, a large loveseat will seem out of place. However, if you live in a house with high ceilings and an open floor plan, these huge pieces help create a sense of proportion.
Cool Metals – Brass and gold started to make a return in early 2007, but it didn't last long. Silver has once again become the metal of choice. You'll see cool metallic tones such as brushed nickel, aluminum, platinum, pewter, and steel in many different fixtures and accessories. Grey shades recently became more important in apparel and home furnishings, so this desire for cool metallic surfaces is not surprising.
Snow White – As soon as the Christmas decorations were put away and the winter catalogues arrived, it became clear that white is the hottest neutral this season. Designers are using white sofas, lamps, vases, and picture frames to brighten spaces . Also expect to see more white walls featured in home décor magazines. The new white tones include everything from bright white to soft eggshell and candlelight, making this trend easy to incorporate in all interiors.
The Color of 2008
Prepare to see a lot of blue in 2008. Last month, Pantone, the global authority on color, named Blue Iris the color of the year. This means you can expect to find this cobalt hue in many fashion and home products.
Pantone describes Blue Iris as combining the stable and calming aspects of blue with the mystical and spiritual qualities of purple. Others have speculated that all shades of blue will become "the new green." In recent years, we've seen green become a popular color for natural products and eco-friendly designs. Because blue is the color of the oceans and sky, it seems the next choice for those looking for tranquil, nature-inspired hues.
If you are ready to embrace Blue Iris in your home design, I recommend starting with a few accessories. While it is a lovely color, you'll find a little of this tone can create a strong visual impact. For a playful, vibrant feeling, combine Blue Iris and white. For more sophisticated interiors, I like to pair Blue Iris with shades of gray, plum, and reddish browns.
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