2017 has been a year of rich colours, marble and traditional furnishings throughout the interior design world. This was in part inspired by a desire to return to the past for reassurance during what appears to be (for most people) a socially, economically and environmentally turbulent time.
While some might argue that not much has changed in terms of the issues facing the world, this surprising but vibrant year has seen huge social change which can’t have failed to influence our minds, choices and our homes.
At the start of the year we saw millions of people across the world marching for Women’s Rights whilst donning the infamous Pussy hat. It is no wonder then, that Millennial Pink has been the year’s most fabulous colour…the best colour, the most wonderful colour in the history of colours. However, is this colour enough for the emboldened society we have become as we approach 2018?
Fabulous lounge by 2lg
Following a year of Youthquake, #MeToo and fake news, it’s understandable that we no longer tremble at the idea of painting our walls anything other than white. With thousands of emboldened protesters on both sides of every argument, we think 2018 will be a year of statement, colour and conflict. If you’re looking for inspiration look no further than the 1970’s.
Key trends-
Terrazzo flooring– as people tire of cleaning stains from their beautiful Carrera marble, Terrazzo is making a huge comeback thanks to its durability and variety of finishes and applications.
Finished Absolute Project Management bathroom with lovely Terrazzo Tiles
Full coverage– as we move away from statement walls, people are instead treating and covering all surfaces- including doors and mouldings. This can be done in vibrant paint colours or even patterned papers, tiles or concrete…
Farrow and Ball Card Room green, by Jenna Lyons deatured in TM Magazine
Conflicting colours/ finishes and patterns– to create a vibrant, decadent look. For example, when painting all walls with one colour, it is imperative to layer your accessories, furnishings and materials elsewhere, to add interest and free you from having to conform to one palette/ style.
Fabulous lounge featured in adore-magazine
Brass– it works perfectly with jewel rich colours AND beautiful herringbone flooring- perfect.
Finished Absolute Project Management bathroom with Hansgrohe Brass taps & design works tiles
Statement Artwork– in particular photography, by and of, empowered women. Throughout 2017, the rights, experiences and treatment of women throughout the world was firmly in the limelight of current issues. Whilst most people don’t necessarily want to put up photos of women’s marches in their homes, they will hang beautiful artwork which inspires discussion or promotes their personal beliefs. One of our favourite collections this year is Kirsty Mackay’s images from her book ‘My Favourite Colour Was Yellow’ which delves in to the world of Pink and what role this colour plays in the lives of young girls.
Kirsty Mackay My favourite colour is yellow.
What we’ll leave in 2017-
Typeface and written artwork- in an age of mass protest and huge economic change, a poster stating that “live, love, laugh” – just isn’t going to cut it anymore!
Lovely bedroom featured in Swoonworthy
Companies without values- building your brand is becoming ever more important in the internet age. Businesses with key values such as integrity, sustainability, community and quality are continuing to do well with consumers. This is even creating ripples of effect in larger companies; Ikea continues to benefit in PR terms from their zero-waste management and their fun family-orientated ad campaigns. Products and materials with cheap labour and poor environmental credentials are feeling the squeeze.
Beautiful arrangement by Ikea
Mid-century- I know, we’re sad too. But do not get rid of your sideboard just yet. Instead team key beautiful and practical pieces with some glamorous 70’s style with voluptuously shaped furniture and mixed materials.Add a plant with beautifully patterned leaves for extra interest.
Wonderful arrangement by Kelly-Wearstler, Austin residence
Misogyny- along with 70’s revival in interiors, comes 70’s revival in feminism and bushy rugs. Grab them by the shag pile!
Modern Shag Pile Rug featured in Women and Home