Curved shapes, textures and nature-inspired interiors are all the trends named by top interior designers for 2022. But what is trending in interior design right now?
A design trend that looks here to stay is Biophilic design – indoor plants have never been so popular! The longing for nature is growing and we are looking at more ways to incorporate them into our homes more than ever. As humans, it is in our DNA to require a consistent connection to nature. Even hotels are filling their lobbies with plants and integrating principles of Biophilia design into the large-scale design plans of their buildings.
Not only does Biophilic design contribute to our overall wellbeing, but it also improves physical health, improves productivity, and reduces stress levels. If you are looking to incorporate this trend into your own home, look at our top tips to achieve Biophilic design:
- Let There Be Natural Light – Let in as much natural light as possible! Get rid of the fluorescent lighting and boost your Vitamin D at the same time. If your space doesn’t have floor-to-ceiling windows, take a more minimalist approach to window coverings.
- Natural Colour Palette – We recommend painting in a neutral colour and let nature do the talking. Choosing paint colours and upholstery that resembles the colours of nature is also a key to this design trend. Green is an obvious choice, incorporating blue resembles the sky and adding hints of oranges and yellows represent the sun, allowing us to recreate the outdoors in our very own homes.
- Plants Plants Plants – This is a very simple way of achieving this design trend by inviting plants into your home. Plants, whether they’re artificial or not, connect us to nature, reduce stress levels and promotes our general wellbeing. From stylish planters, hanging planters and even wall-mounted planters, there is a style for everyone!
- Oh, So Natural – Get back to basics and opt for natural materials. This includes using stone, woods, and wicker in your designs along with using organic and sustainable materials for textiles.
This leads us nicely into the next popular trend that looks sets to stay – Eco-Design! Global awareness of environmental issues is at an all-time high, and as a species we’re growing increasingly aware that our actions have a profound impact on the planet.
Eco-design is driving changes in every industry, including our homes. There is a greater sense of responsibility about how the objects produced have a lasting effect on the environment and our wellbeing. So, what can we expect to see in a modern eco-style home?
- Natural and Sustainable Materials: Using responsibly sourced materials such as bamboo and recycled materials such as reclaimed wood, provides an easy approach to upcycling. It can be used for a more rustic look including flooring solutions. Adding texture in the form of rugs, with many now being made from recycled plastics. Bio-glass is a green alternative for a number of household items, ranging from bathroom sinks to kitchen countertops.
- High Quality Windows: It’s all about letting in as much natural light as possible, but also controlling the building’s temperature by keeping out both cold and hot air from outside.
- LED Lighting: Did you know that LED light bulbs use at least 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs and can last 25 times longer? Not only are they better for the environment and wallet, LED bulbs provide an attractive warm light in any style pendant.
- Colours and Textures: Lighter colours help reflect more light, while darker colours and furnishings need more artificial lighting. Using bold colours such as turquoise, mustards and corals is also a great way to naturally brighten up the place. Try using reflective surfaces also to increase the amount of light in a room.
- Biophilic: Incorporating this trend with eco-design feels so natural. Adding greenery and harnessing more natural light is a great step to achieving that eco-design look!
However, going green is more than just a trend. As resources dry up and legislation around sustainable design is tightened, it is highly likely that it will become a necessity rather than a choice. In the meantime, people today are looking for more meaningful experiences in their homes – a place to escape the concrete jungle of the world and connect to nature in the comfort of their own living rooms.
