What's Hot and What's Not in 2023

Written By: Sonia Barney

It's a couple weeks into the new year and I’m already seeing a rejuvenation in design. No longer are we keeping things calm, and quite frankly, boring, in response to the dreaded 2020. Life is being infused back into our homes with full abandon. Take for example Pantone's Color of the Year, Viva Magenta. 

​Below is a list of trends I see on the way out, and the ones I see replacing them.  But always remember, if you love it, it doesn’t matter what other people think (including me)!  However, if your home feels dated and you’re looking to make some changes, these ideas will steer you in the right direction. 

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Trends on Their Way Out

#1 - White Shiplap

Can I say overdone? (With apologies to my shiplap loving friends.) It was a great idea until it was, well, everywhere. I recognize it was a perfect way to create an inexpensive accent, but I just can't endorse its use any longer! When every builder adds at least one accent wall in each of their new builds, then it’s no longer special. 

#2 - Cheap Collage Walls

You wouldn't know it by my over-stuffed office, but I’m a minimalist at heart. I don't feel the need to display everything I own—especially knowing that it’ll have to be cleaned. Collage walls came into vogue when collectors started displaying their beloved treasures in a unique maximalism potpourri. (Which I fully admit is still amazing.) But are you a collector? Do your items tell a story and have special meaning? Then by all means, display them.  But if you have to go out and buy items to make your collage wall, then save your money. Don't do it. There are cleaner and more elevated looks for your home. (see below)

#3 - Plant Shelves

One of the banes of this designer’s existence... plant shelves (at least that is what I call them.) They are those open drywall ledges cut into your walls often seen high up towards the ceiling. Like their close cousin, the collage wall, these areas end up being not much more than a dust collector. At one point, did all home builders and local architects decide this feature is the pinnacle of design? They are prolific, and in turn, many homeowners wonder how to style these random spaces at the top of their vaulted ceilings. The answer is simple, do nothing!  Again, unless you have an amazing collection of the right sized objects that needs to be displayed, do not go buy a bunch of useless objects to fill the spot. You don’t want to feel guilty about not cleaning up there regularly. In fact, the next time you have a contractor in your home, ask him to frame that area in. Clean, vertical wall at 10 feet off the ground is much better than a useless collection of stuff you can barely see.

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Trends on the Scene

#1 - Bold and Dark Paint Colors

As much as we love an all-white home, special rooms swathed in a dark toned paint color will make anyone swoon. From deep plums to forest greens, and even black, these bolder wall-to-wall paint choices are an inexpensive way to express personality and create a vibe. Take a look at how some designers have bravely applied this trend. 

Ashley Goforth Design

deVOL Kitchens

#2 - Pattern Mixing

Maximalism is the art of "more is more." You can do that with more accessories or, in the way I prefer,  mixing and layering color and pattern throughout the space. Why choose only one tile for your backsplash? Why play it safe with plain white drapes? Why only have pattern on throw pillows? Start playing with contrasting patterns and materials on your wall, furniture, window treatments, and decor and make something uniquely yours. Need inspiration? Check out these amazing spaces below that prove mixing patterns is not just a old grandma look. 

interiorZING

The Backwater

#3 - Oversized Art

You know how I said I’m over collage walls? This may leave you asking, “Then what do I put on my walls?”  The answer is simple - go big! Invest in oversized art. I don't care if it’s a framed family picture or an amazing wall sculpture of a hamburger. Let your art cover the wall and make a spectacular focal point in the space.  Added benefit: oversized artwork can enhance an architecturally deprived space (such as the lack of fireplaces or trim work). Don't take my word for it. See for yourself how these designers have completely upleveled the space with art. 

Reduex Decor

Sebastian Zuchowicki

When in doubt, you can always ask an expert.
​If you need design services to update your space, don't hesitate to start the process. Set up an introductory phone call today and learn how we can bring new life into your space. 

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