As we start the New Year, we all want to be up to date on the latest design trends. Heaven knows, we don’t want to be stuck in 2005! Although 2005 brought us some great design ideas, this year is all about being outrageous! It’s all about mixing and matching, glossy surfaces, focusing on the kitchen in your home, and using different textures while still staying true to your design style.
One of the key elements that came up in 2005 was the production of furniture made of Lucite or Plexiglass. The use of this modern product that was built into traditional pieces of furniture such as the Louis Ghost chair designed my Philippe Starck. These are also going to be very hot this year. Now, in keeping with the mix of modern and traditional, this will also carry on into interiors. The modern esthetic can seem a bit drab, this year incorporate a traditional component such a Bergere Chair or a traditional lamp into your décor. This juxtaposition offers just the right amount of drama and will have people saying, “Hmmmm, I never thought about doing that, but it looks FABULOUS!” Another idea for the mix is fabric, especially Damask. This has been traditionally used for upholstery; use it for throw pillows to accent a modern sofa, as drapes, or upholstery for a clean lined furniture piece. Incorporating a timeless fabric with amazing modern pieces will leave you in awe…trust me!
Kitchens will also be getting a lot of attention in the coming year. They are the hub in most homes, so it’s about time they got the attention they deserve. Cabinets are available in many different tones and textures. Lighter colors are out, so welcome new dramatic colors for your cabinets. Italian kitchen manufacturers are coming out with amazing high gloss lacquered cabinets in reds, whites, and greens that look fantastic in modern kitchens. You can even pick them up at IKEA! Dark colors are also staying hot this year when it comes to cabinets; Chocolates, Espresso, and Walnut colors are in. Stainless steel, chrome and antique silver hardware are the perfect accessory, and can re-vamp any kitchen from drab to fab in no time!
Texture is an important component of Interior Design. You should always introduce some texture to create some drama in a space. There should be no trouble finding pieces to do just that in 2006. The trend carries on this year with cowhide, which will work in all types of décor and look fabulous on the floor, upholstered on a footstool, chair, or even used as a throw. For those of you that own pets, no need to fret - faux pieces are also available! If you are feeling a little outrageous try out a faux zebra hide. Another hot item for 2006 is crocodile skin…I love it. Available in rich colors such as Cognac, this can add a masculine touch - it’s useful for more than just a wicked pair of shoes!
As far as color trends go, the serene spa-type colors are still hot; blues, whites, and greens. This year though, try going more into the pastels such as pinks, yellows, and lavenders for a spin on the typical serene space. Introduction of exotic colors such as deep yellows, dark brows, reds and oranges are also favorable to create warm and intimate spaces. Neutrals are popular again, but more along the skin tones. For those that are afraid of color, this is the perfect solution; but please don’t go painting your whole house in neutrals…try adding the more exotic colors on accent walls.
So, there you have it! Follow these trends and you definitely wont get left behind in 2005. Just like in fashion, it’s prudent to be aware of new trends, and it’s great that there are ways to introduce these new ideas without having to re-vamp your whole home. Incorporate a new lamp, throw pillows, curtains, or hardware – these are inexpensive items and give your place a whole new look. Remember, this is your space and you want to make it comfortable for you and your guests! Always remain true to your own style…well, as long as it’s not Geriatric Chic or 80’s Glam Rock!
Happy Decorating!
