2018 ushered in colorful kitchens, chintzy florals and terrazzo flooring (amongst other design delights). And for the year ahead? The home forecast is looking even more brave, bold and—#bless—fun. We checked in with a few of our most trusted designer friends to see which trends have the industry buzzing.
As with fashion, each year in interiors pays special reference to a time period before it—and for 2019, that’s looking like the modular, curvy-lined 80s. “Trends are marching their way through the decades pretty consistently. Several years ago there was a resurgence in mid-century design, after that came the boho look of the '60s and '70s, and now the '80s are definitely owning the scene,” says designer Jaclyn Joslyn of Coveted Home. “Simply take a look at CB2's latest collection with Goop!”
Pantone’s Living Coral color declaration predicts the shift away from the cool blues of yesteryear and into warm, feminine tones in 2019. “Color directly enhances mood, and in these complicated times, I predict that people will be leaning into more happy, traditionally feminine colors to brighten home and spirit!” says Homepolish designer Kerry Vasquez.
If 2018 was the year of chintzy florals, the haute motif for 2019 is soothing, abstract watercolors. “The fabric houses keep coming out with brushstroke textiles in palettes ranging from soft to bold,” says the design team at Massucco Warner Miller. “We love its versatility as it can go modern or traditional depending on what it’s paired with.”
Mixed metals are still the hot hardware trend, but the singular finish that’s looking the freshest? Textural silver tones—aka pewter and gunmetal. “These aren’t as harsh as matte black or as specific as brass or gold, but it gives fixtures some great texture and depth,” says designer Highlyann Krasnow of The Design High.
We tipped you off to the rise of banquette-style dining a few months ago, and according to the pros, there’s much more cozy, casualness in store: “Banquette seating will only gain momentum in 2019 and we are here for it!” says the team at design firm Studio Gild. Why is this informal setup in such high demand? “It’s more comfortable and inviting than a formal dining setup and best of all—can accommodate more people.”
"2019 will leave behind minimalism and instead pay homage to the more-is-more maximalism movement,” says designer Anne Hepfer. What does that mean, exactly? Tons of varied textures, patterns, colors and the like. Your hoarder status book collection and inability to commit to a single design scheme? Totally en vogue. At this moment, there’s a pronounced pendulum swing away from the hyper-editing and neutral tones that have dominated for the scene for past several years.
