Interior trends
earth tones, popping wallpaper, light wood and lots of carpets
This summer is a special summer. It gets hot without a doubt, in every sense of the word. Because even with protection against the virus, people value a nice home more than ever. Cindy Gerets, manager of Merode Interieur, distinguishes a few striking trends for us
light and cuddly fabrics
“A nice home belongs to light tones, round shapes, and cuddly fabrics such as wool and linen. Nowadays there is something round in every living room to make it softer. We also call this light style the 'Bright Bubble', which stands for rest, a new beginning. The result is a fresh house where soft, smooth and simple take the lead”.
#cottagecore
“A trend that is bathed in a nostalgic atmosphere is 'country core', also known as #cottagecore on social media. Since the lockdowns, it is striking how much we return to nature. Everyone started walking, forest bathing, gardening... Even those who don't live in the countryside can bring the idyllic countryside into their home. It is much more than an interior style. Country living is also a way to slow down, to make time for yourself in your cozy corner”. According to Cindy, a whole range of materials can make your house completely cottage-core: raw untreated wood, cognac leather, metal, linen, wool, cotton, lace, knitwear and crochet interspersed with flowery motifs, vintage finds, sustainable deco objects...
outside becomes inside with plants and garden carpets
“The boundaries between outside and inside are getting smaller and smaller,” says Cindy. “With a whole bunch of air-purifying plants in all shapes and sizes, with colors that are reminiscent of the jungles or deserts, we throw open all boundaries. Bringing that feeling of the outside in, but not such a good plant holder? Choose wallpaper with floral motifs,” Cindy advises. And you can go for exuberance: “The time when wallpaper had to blend seamlessly into your interior is completely over. Your wallpaper can now really pop and you prefer to stick it nicely against an accent wall.”
Another effect of this trend is garden carpets: “Carpets in all shapes and sizes are already very trendy anyway. This summer we see the breakthrough of outdoor carpets, carpets that can withstand wind and weather. We are also seeing more and more materials that are resistant to weather influences in the fabrics for cushions.”
light wood, natural materials and earth tones
“Previously, you saw light woods mainly in Scandinavian interiors, especially in furniture and floors. This year, other living styles will also opt for light wood tones. Other natural materials are also popular: a bamboo lampshade, rattan chair, linen curtains, jute carpet, seagrass baskets and wool cushion covers…
“What you really can't ignore this year are the earth tones. Earth tones give a warm atmosphere and bring peace. You can combine it beautifully with different color families, such as red, pink, ocher yellow, blue and green. Another trend color this year is dark blue. This color provides a classic and calm look. Dark blue goes well with earth tones and light woods.” Don't you dare to make a big color change right away? Then set accents with the new colors in decorative pieces or cushion covers”.