2022 Interior Trend Forecast (from an interior designer)

Trends. Whether you buy into them or not, they will always have an influence over us. I spend a good chunk of my time keeping up to date on interior design, whether it’s by scrolling through Instagram or watching tours of celebrity homes on Architectural Digest. I believe more in creating spaces that withstand the test of time but it’s always fun to see what’s in style at the moment and incorporate some of those elements in your own unique way into your home!

One. Warm Neutrals.

We are seeing less and less of the all-white or gray interior and more warm neutrals, like cocoa and sandy beige. These hues feel rich, almost like a hug. Because of the pandemic, more people are spending time in their homes, making it even more important that they feel safe in these spaces. Try swapping out your white throw pillows or blankets for some of these brown hues.

Designer Picks:

Zara Home Linen Throw Pillow

Zara Cotton Blanket in Brown

CB2 Black Vase

Two. Tons of Texture.

If there’s anything I’m passionate about, it’s texture! Texture keeps designs from feeling too flat. It’s also an easy way to bring some life into a room without having to commit to a color. This year, we’ll continue to see textures that are reminiscent of those in nature (think jute, natural woods, and plaster). Try varying your textures when styling surfaces or shelves for a curated look.

Designer Picks:

CB2 Wool Pillow in Ivory

West Elm Cactus Silk Pillow

Zara Gauze Blanket

Three. Soft Curves that Mimic Nature

Speaking of nature, in 2022 furniture forms that feel soft and organic will be increasingly popular. This is in contrast to the angular and sharp forms that have been popular in earlier modern designs. Curved pieces feel relaxed and easy and can help soften more modern or sophisticated pieces. Good design is all about balance!

Designer Picks:

West Elm Dining Table

Zara Vase

CB2 Daybed

Four. Styling with Vintage Accents

I love a unique find (who doesn’t?!) and it’s even better when it’s both budget-friendly and sustainable! Head to your local vintage store or flea market for those one-of-a-kind pieces to finish off your space. Try to think outside of the box; that 50-cent postcard from Positano that’s thrown in a pile makes an awesome addition to a gallery wall if framed.

Five. Elevated Outdoor Spaces

We all know that getting outside is good for us, but it’s even better if there’s an outdoor space that feels like an extension of our homes. If you have a patio or deck, you can easily transform this area to a destination you and your friends will want to spend all your time on! Start with an outdoor rug (see here for selecting the right size). Next, add seating, like loveseats and armchairs, with throw pillows. Add a side table that you can place a drink on, some planters for in-season flowers, and string lights so you can enjoy your space into the evening.

Designer Picks:

Joss & Main Outdoor Rug

CB2 Outdoor Pillow

Target Loveseat

And what’s out…

As trends gain in popularity, some things have to go!

One. All-White Everything.

The all-white room has had its moment, but fresh pops of color are taking over! I still love the crisp look of white but great designs have unique touches. Art, throw pillows, blankets, and rugs are easy ways to incorporate color and bring in your special personality.

Two. Boucle…A Little Goes a Long Way.

When boucle first started to make its appearance in interiors, I was ecstatic. It’s neutral! Textured! Cozy! Three of my favorite elements when it comes to textiles. And then boucle fully took over 2021 and to be honest, I think it lost much of its original Wow Factor. I think we’ll still be seeing boucle elements in 2022 but in richer colors, like cocoa.

Three. Non-Functional Pieces.

The COVID pandemic has changed our relationships with our homes. We spend a greater part of our time there, even two years later. We saw offices, schools, gyms, and more bloom out of our living rooms, bedrooms, and kitchens. Multi-functional spaces are the perfect solution to our many home needs. When purchasing pieces it’s important to assess them and ask if this new item will serve you in more than one way.

Four. Goodbye Modern Minimalism

And Hello Grandmillennial! If you’re unfamiliar with the term, chances are you’ve at least seen it (read up on this trend here). Chintz fabrics, ruffles, and embroidered linen designs once considered “stuffy and outdated,” are on the rise as modern minimal ones seem to be on their way out. To be honest, I was never into a modern design that resembled more of a spaceship than a home. It always felt cold and bleak, which is not how I want to feel in my space! To incorporate the Grandmillenial style into your own home, you don’t need to go complete British grandma. Instead, try integrating an element here and there. Hit up your local thrift or antique store for the perfect touch!