Some homeowners are fond of opting for classic designs such as Shaker cabinets, clean white wall paint, and marble (or marble-like) worktops. But what about for those of us who like to think outside the box? A great way to take a creative risk with your home decor is to look at popular aesthetics, materials and products.
We've seen trends such as curved furniture, the 'Japandi' aesthetic and water-friendly design dominate in the past - and some of these looks are still going strong. But which decorative trends are more popular than ever? From mushroom patterns to 'funky' homes, here are some of the interior design trends that experts think are everywhere right now.
1. Primitive décor
Does your main living room look a little bland? Add visual interest and depth by applying the texture of the original finish to your walls, fireplace or floor.
Jesus Emmanuel Nieves, interior designer and project manager at Freemodel, explains that original finishes include limewash techniques, unfinished plaster looks, and decorations or furniture with large stones.
In fact, the plaster look is hotter than ever, says Alyce Lopez, interior design ambassador for Polywood and owner of The True House Design.
"We're all seeing a huge trend in plaster fireplaces," Lopez says." We're even using drywall on hoods to give the impression of a custom plaster hood."
She notes that while these materials are trending, you must speak to your local contractor to ensure they are all fire rated.
2. A statement ceiling
When it comes to interior design, floors, walls and lighting usually get all the love - and ceilings are mostly an afterthought. But this is changing.
"This season, designers are embracing the ceiling as a statement piece," says Michael Bashari, managing director of Purely Paints.
They are increasingly making the ceiling the focal point by adding colour, pattern and texture.
Whether it's a wallpapered ceiling or a painted mural, a statement ceiling can add a touch of whimsy and drama to any room," adds Bashari.
3. The 'chic' residence
Combining traditional and modern design elements to create a 'funky' home is very important these days.
Searches on Pinterest for 'mixing modern and antique furniture' are up by 530%. Meanwhile, the #VintageHomeDecor hashtag on TikTok now has over 11 million views.
To incorporate this trend into your space, start by respecting the architecture of the house, "from the bones up", says Lauren Robbins of Lauren Robbins Interiors.
"Preserving the existing architecture," says Robbins, "sets the stage for you to play with contrast in your space." Rather than stripping away decorative or architectural details, consider how they can be incorporated in a new way.
Some examples include painting walls and trim the same matt colour, or installing a sleek modern light fixture in a room with a traditional look.
4. Green, green and more green
If you can't decide on a palette for your home interior, you might want to consider the hottest shade of the year: green.
"Green is all over nature and it goes with everything, which makes it a neutral colour," says Nieves.
You can easily incorporate shades of green into your home by adding rugs, pillows or curtains. Not only are these shades popular right now, but they can also make a room feel calmer and more organised.
"Green really helps to add a state of balance to your space," says Nieves.
5. The mushroom trend
Mushroom patterns are the interior design trend we didn't know we needed.
Started a few years ago, pattern design has become a "full-blown theme", explains Giovanni Scippo, director of 3DLines.
Scippo adds that although popular, this decorative trend is not for everyone and leans towards the quirky side of interior design.
"To incorporate it into your interior," says Scippo, "you can start with subtle mushroom designs in your fabrics, such as cushions." If you're feeling adventurous, you can go all out on the furniture.
If you don't want to take the theme literally, you can use a palette of mushroom tones in your paint, furniture or accessories instead.
6. Irregular rugs
Irregular rugs come in geometric or curved shapes and can have abstract or floral patterns.
"This trend shows that people want to make their homes look more authentic and artistic," says Maria Snesar, head of interior design at Reynoldsville.
While striking, the trend is not for the faint-hearted.
"However, if you're bold enough to use an irregular rug, you can transform your interior with just that one detail," Snisar notes.
7. Coloured concrete
Coloured concrete - especially in bathrooms - is an exciting trend this season.
"It allows people to bring a more spacious feel to their bathrooms because coloured concrete has a calming quality," says Snisar." It also adds texture to the bathroom and makes it feel more well thought out."
She notes that pastels and pastel colours tend to be more popular. But some people opt for bolder shades to make the space appear more cheerful.
If you're interested in trying this trend but don't want to do a complete makeover all at once, start small with a painted concrete sink or bath.