The start of the New Year is exciting; then we discover that new trends are emerging. Style director Louise Hilsz shares what to look out for and one that is close to home.
Quiet Luxury
In the ever-evolving world of chaos, "quiet luxury" has emerged as a compelling trend, emphasising a restrained and understated approach to creating an aura of opulence within living spaces. This trend is characterised by a harmonious blend of subtle sophistication, refined elegance, and a sense of tranquillity that transcends material extravagance. However, lavishness doesn't necessarily have to be loud or ostentatious. Instead, it’s careful curation of high-quality, well-crafted furnishings and elegant dècor that exude timeless elegance and an air of effortless refinement. Add a muted colour palette, in gentle creams, warm taupes, and greige (grey-beige), creating a serene and inviting atmosphere. Marble, wood, and linen are celebrated for their intrinsic beauty and tactility, and when it comes to accessorising, less is often more in the world of quiet luxury.
Resene Platinum paint available from Resene ColorShops. Coco Republic Oryan Occasional Chair, $2395. Iittala Nampula candle holder, $185. Loft Laili Marble Coffee Table, $899.
Wall TREATMENTS
Plain walls are so 2023. For the year ahead a new wave of wall treatment trends is taking the interior design world by storm. Interesting wall coverings dominate; from statement wallpapers, textured plaster walls or incorporating wood panelling to bring visual interest to the walls throughout your home. Wall murals add sophistication to a living room and lots of fun to a nursery or child's room; check out the latest collection from Resene.
Fashion COLOURS as interior COLOURS
Brown is set to claim its well-deserved spotlight in interiors; yes, you heard correctly; my most disliked colour is back in vogue. Having already made a significant mark in fashion, this versatile and sophisticated hue is poised to infuse homes with warmth, elegance, and a sense of grounded luxury. A cornerstone of interior design, brown will manifest in various elements, from sumptuous lacquered walls to velvet drapery; it adds richness and depth like no other shade. Heavily textured linen sofas, swathed in earthy tints, will offer comfort and style and become focal points that beckon lingering moments of relaxation and intimacy. Get ready to witness brown taking centre stage in 2024.
Città Cotton Velvet cushion cover, $50. Resene Milk Chocolate paint available from Resene ColorShops. Notting Hill Interiors Valerie headboard, $1795. Ferm Living Bendum vase, $230.
Stripes
Stripes are a fresh classic; expect this timeless trend to experience a modern revival. One of the most striking ways to incorporate stripes in interior design is through boldly patterned walls. The options are endless, from wide, vertical stripes that add height to a space to horizontal stripes that can create a sense of movement and openness. Striped walls add drama, dimension, and visual interest to living spaces, bedrooms, and bathrooms. There is also a resurgence of retro charm with striped furniture. From iconic mid-century modern chairs upholstered in vibrant striped fabrics to sleek sofas adorned in pinstripes, the juxtaposition of clean, modern lines with the timeless allure of stripes adds an element of playfulness to contemporary interiors.
yellow
Bright and refreshing, yellow is an optimistic, vibrant and uplifting colour. It evokes joy, warmth, and positivity and will be a star of this year's interior trends. However, it’s a softer shade, not canary; think buttery, sun-drenched to muted ochres; these tones bring a sense of tranquillity and comfort to interior spaces. It adds natural and earthy inspired by nature, such as rattan, wicker, and wood. This marriage of sunny hues with organic textures creates a harmonious and balanced aesthetic that feels both contemporary and timeless. Yellow has proved its versatility in elevating interiors and spreading sunshine in your home.
Maker & Son Loveseat sofa, $8795. Double Jag White & Yellow Cotton Feel Rug, $600. Broste Copenhagen Ellen Vase, $189. Resene Apache paint available from Resene ColorShops.
Collectables
Curating “stuff” within the home. I collect many different things, from framed puzzles hanging on my walls to a grouping of ceramic Mickey and Minnie Mouse figurines, candles, and colourful vases. A home is made when it is filled with things that have meaning to you.
Create warmth with moody colours in every room of your home.