Our in-house Interior Design expert Kerena Berry– Designbx shares her insight into the emerging Trends for 2020.  This year will see a pull toward more dynamic and stimulating interiors.  Iterations of each of the below trends will transpire across various styles; Boho, Luxe, Coastal, the rules are being pushed, and more than ever styles are being bled together in an individually creative manner. It’s time to release those creative juices!   

GEO UNION

In a constantly changing and dynamic world we are trending towards paying closer attention to the earth’s surface- the changes, causes and effects. We will continue to evolve and take a finer look at how we influence the environment and the results of our lifestyles.  In this heightened awareness we will start the blend with our surroundings, drawing on integrating textures of clay, concrete, minerals, foliage and rock sediments through pattern and prints. The palette is a meridian of neutral earth tones. “Fabric and wallpaper applications will be the hero elements for this trend’ Berry– Designbx

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FINE OPTIMISM

This season sees a yearning for something comforting and pleasing.  A celebration of the past and evolving it with the new. Antique aesthetics, french textiles and unobtrusive print and patterns.  Colours are delicate sun faded and organic tones. This is a bright happy space.

Berry says “Layering is key here. A fan of colours and patterns can comfortably share a single space, however, a similar tonal range will be the key element to ensure a refined design”  

Image- Pattern Curator

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sources:  thecoolhour.com, refinery29.com, ebay.com, nicolevalentinedon.com, somegram.com, instagram (@bohemiandecor), amapofdreams.com, vsco.com (vscovibess), attirepin.com

COUTURE BOHEMIAN

Inspired by the desire for expression and creativity, pulling from the free spirited lifestyle of artists, philosophers and writers.  “ This is one style we have seen a huge influx in our projects over the last 6 months. Australian’s are welcoming richer tones and heavier fabrics into the home and commercial spaces”- Berry.

We look to focus on an eclectic style of gilded neutrals, deep saturated jewel tones overlayed with considerate and detailed bohemian patterns. “Embracing the idea that “More is more”, colour, texture and pattern clash adding a daring twist with theatrical drama” Globewest

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2020 sees us taking everything up to the next level. Colour, texture, prints and patterns being pushed to surprise. A little piece of the past, future and present all colliding to create familiar yet challenging new designs – almost anything goes!

“It is refreshing to foremost see variety. A beautiful layering of modern techniques, with old era soul, and consideration and pull to nature’s forms and tones.” Kerena Berry Designbx

-Kerena Berry is a Senior Interior Designer and co-founder of Designbx, Australia’s online interior design solution.  

The post Design Trends 2020 appeared first on Designbx.

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1. New colours for an old look

Let’s start with the colour scheme. Just about anything can be used for your antique style. Some suggestions are: aqua blues, sunshine yellows, creamy whites and leather browns. Also incorporate floral prints as this was the trending design of the time. To save money, instead of buying new furniture just because the colours don’t match, simply give your cupboards, tables and cabinets a coat of fresh but old looking paint.

1. Roughly coat chalk paint onto the furniture, creating an uneven surface.
2. Use graphite and water to darken edges and legs, where wear and tare would have occurred
3. Use coarse sandpaper and paint scrapers to distress the furniture for a worn look
4. Use clear chalk paint wax to finish

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2. Fancy fabrics for less

Many antique styles incorporate expensive fabrics such as large velvet couches and silk curtains, but often there is a cheaper alternative that looks just as effective. Instead of using velvet, opt for felt which has a similar texture and no one will be able to tell from afar. As for those luscious silk curtains, synthetic satins shimmer just as well and your bank account will thank you for it. When choosing furniture in these materials, a blend of yellow and blue will give a vintage look and can also be styled with just about anything. You could also go traditional brown leather but make sure it is a weathered look and not a ‘straight-out-of-the-shop’ appearance as it will stick out like a sore thumb.

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3. The traditional home library

It wouldn’t be an antique theme without a home library. Grab the oldest looking bookshelf you can find and fill it with the oldest books you can find. Books with a little ware and tare are ideal as it gives the impression that they were actually read once-upon-a-time. This is where the op-shop actually does come in handy. Many outlets sell books for next to nothing and they are generally used books which is perfect for the look you’re going for. Place a velvet couch in the room and you have yourself a traditional antique library.

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4. In the kitchen

The kitchen is by far the easiest room to transform into a antique masterpiece. Vintage inspired kitchens are on trend and it’s relatively cheap and easy to transform a modern kitchen into an antique one. Start by removing cupboard doors. Yes you heard right, there was no place for cupboard doors back in the day. Everything on shelves and in cupboards were celebrated as part of the design of the room. Open shelving or glass cabinet doors are the perfect addition to a antique kitchen. If this move is a bit too bold, simply replace doors with vintage curtains in cute floral or stripe patterns. Another antique addition to the kitchen can include replacing cabinet knobs. These days, knobs are often shiny and simplistic but the antique style calls for something with pattern and elegance. Try brass or iron handles that can often be found at the local hardware shop.

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5. Time to decorate

Vintage interior design is all about having functional decorating items such as those decorative plates hanging on the wall, that may come in handy when people are over for dinner (even though they are rarely used, the thought is there). First let’s turn your lighting into an artwork. Paint your old lamp shades with floral patterns for a unique touch. Don’t stress if you don’t have an artistic side, simply grab leaves and paint them in various colours, to then press into the shade. Rugs are the next big necessity. Colourful Chinese art deco rugs are perfect for a vintage touch. The more pattern and colour the better. Rugs can be a big investment, so instead grab a few metres of fabric, such as Ikea’s ikat fabric, and head to a dressmaker to sew the seams. Although this may not be the centre piece of the room, it’s a perfect base for furniture. As for the walls, create an eclectic mix of various frames. Grab old wooden frames from and op-shop or repaint frames in gold and brass colours.

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6. Storage

When thinking about storage, think of all the possible uses for one item. Such as a small bowl can be used for jewelry storage, to hold a candle or to hold keys. Vintage silver, brass or copper bowls, vases and plates are ideal for storage in every room. Expensive looking pieces can be found at op-shops for inexpensive prices, or you could raid your grandmother’s house for timeless pieces. Bowls can be used for plants such as succulents, or hanging plants. Antique vases can be used for makeup brushes and toothbrushes. Vintage plates can be used for wall decoration or can be made into a multitiered jewelry holder.

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7. Hang your memories

Hanging photos doesn’t have to be done in the traditional framed way. This idea lends itself more to the country vintage look but is also perfectly suited for a home in the city. Use wire or an old fence gate to peg photos onto. Painted wire is often worn and this means it will fit in perfectly with your worn painted furniture.

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As you can see, vintage interior design does not have to send you bank into the negatives. By getting creative, you can bring your antique inspired designs to life for less.

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Key Parisian furniture pieces are aged, tell a story or have history (bumps, knocks and chipped paint add character). Be generous with proportions like the use of oversized feather-filled sofas or billowing sheer curtains. There is a sense of the past, memories, nature; details where objects have a beauty of their own and bring richness to your life.

1. Top Tip for French style

Take a cue from the Parisian attention to detail. There is a certain stylistic manner in everything they do. Your space reflects your deepest desires and passions.

2. Traits

Intricate wood detailing, linen, muslin, velvet, rugs (layered and mismatched).

3. Designers/Artists

Jacques Grange

4. Pantone colours

5. Brands that fit

Xavier, French Accent Furniture, Le Forge, Horgans, Ici et la, 1825 Interiors, Globe Imports, Laura Ashley, Izzi & Popo, Cote maison, Dirty Janes Emporium.

6. A perfect day

An early wake to catch the sunrise across the hills. Pick some fresh herbs on the terrace for the beef casserole that will slow cook and the aromas flow through the house. Brew a pot of jasmine tea and roast the pecans for the handmade pecan pie. A day of cooking, tea brewing, potting and chatting to friends on the phone. A late afternoon swim to lift the soul. A perfect balance of relaxation and invigoration.

7. Fragrance or tune

The Motley Candle-otes of California laurel, willow, wild grass and blackberry, reminiscent of the rising sun in the morning.

French style homes in Australia combine a warm, antique look, that looks natural in a more modern home.

Check out more decorating styles!  

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The French accent style style has come along way since it’s roots in the 1770’s. While still incorporating elements of antique furniture and over-the-top furnishings, nowadays we don’t have to be so extravagant to create a French accent style.

Whether you want to create a simple and modern French look or you are opting for the traditional, all-out style, these are our top 10 tipsL

1. French walls

The colours of your wall will determine the decorations and upholstery for the rest of the room. Try spilt coloured walls, such as: the upper half painted grey or white and the lower half (chair rail height) painted a darker red or blue. When choosing whites, stick to warmer tones such as cream, ivory and stone. As for blues, use aqua, cornflower or midnight blue. Choose a dominant colour such as red, that can be used to highlight aspects of the room. The style is inspired by the rolling French hills, so sunshine yellow is also an option for an accent colour. For a more traditional French style, incorporate timber work into the upper half of the wall.

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2. Passionate patterns

When choosing patterns for your French inspired home, think to the outdoors. Floral upholstery is a large part of the style, and this can be incorporated into anything, from couches to curtains to rugs. Red and blue stripes are a recognisable French feature and can be used in curtains and upholstery. In the kitchen, emphasise visual depth through your tiles and cupboards.

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3. Simple but effective floors

The flooring is the base to your room, so there’s no need to go over the top with pattern and colour. Stick to natural materials such as stone, slate, natural wood and limestone. If you aren’t a fan of hard flooring, choose neutral, warm tone carpet or you could place coloured rugs on top of your stone floors. In the kitchen you have a free pass to go all out. Match the colour of your floor with the cupboards and go to town with the pattern.

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4. The French and their furniture

Don’t rush out the door to buy brand new couches and tables with clean white shining finishes. These items will stick out like a sore thumb. French style homes prefer a weathered look. A look that represents ware and tare from past generations. This doesn’t mean you have to have an antique leather couch that has been passed down from generation to generation, it just means you have to shop for the right materials. Search for wrought iron, bronze and brown leather couches, tables and chairs. Also consider natural materials like timber and stone, but make sure they match the warm colour scheme.

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This may sound strange, but avoid matching furniture. Create a collected look with different shapes, sizes and colours of furniture and accessories. Mix a variety of finishes from natural woods to metals.

5. 2 in 1 Decorations

While French accent is often known for an abundance of decorations, each decorative piece often has a functional use. The large clocks are for reading the time, the open kitchen shelving for easy access and the hanging pots and plates are for use in dinner parties. Extravagant candle holders once functioned as the only source of lighting but today they are more functional for nice smelling candles. Use gold as a main accessory colour, to reflect light around the room. Beautifully patterned plates can be hung in place of artwork. If using artwork, choose one large antique piece as opposed to smaller pieces and don’t forget to add mirrors where possible. If you are lucky enough to have a fireplace, this is the perfect spot for decorative gold mirrors or large artworks.

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6. Flowers, flowers and more flowers

It wouldn’t be a French room without flowers of some kind. The French style celebrates life outdoors, so ensure you have either floral prints or a bunch of flowers potted in a pottery vase. Use roses, poppies, iris and tulips to give life to your room.

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7. Modern meets traditional

For those of you who don’t want to go full antique, you can still incorporate subtle French elements and colours into your home to create a modern twist. Use light blues, warm whites or pastel yellows for your walls and combine this with gold accessories and large mirrors. Incorporate wood furniture which is modern yet still fits with the French accent style. Less is more, so choose one piece of artwork or one feature piece in the room such as a decorated fireplace.

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8. Glam it up

Instead of an antique, traditional room, mix it up with some chic elements. Start with a large chandelier for the feature piece of the room. These go perfectly in the middle of a living room or over a dining table. Next, add gilded mirrors, metallic coffee tables and gold accessories to provide that wow factor.

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9. Never too much curtain

You can never have too much or too many curtains in French style homes. Don’t stop your curtains at the floor, the more the merrier. Long drapes in red velvet or subtle blues and stone colours are perfect for window dressings. It’s all about emphasising the structure of the building, even if it’s a plain square room, curtains can dress up anything.

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10. Inspiration to get you started

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For a head start on ideas for French accent style or other popular styles, check out our style boards and gold products.

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It was a product of its generation – a time when western society was enjoying rapid technological development while the elite celebrated grandeur and excess that would rival any following generation.

Architecture bloomed wildly from city skylines, music was in full Swing, movie theatres were full, and the jet-set crowd created the first truly decadent nightclubs. By the time Art Deco’s influence hit American shores in the 30s, its influence had spread through every visual medium, from fashion to skyscrapers. You could even see its stark shapes and patterns influencing the design of motor vehicles. It seemed unstoppable, and there was no better example of its influence than interior design.

As if waking from a hundred year slumber, Art Deco is enjoying a much-deserved revival. While undoubtedly retro, its original brief – the celebration of modernism and futurism – makes the art deco style style a striking addition to any home. In a sense, it’s timeless. So let’s see how you can add the graceful charm, elegance and opulence of this interior design style to your home.

1. Bold patterns

While undoubtedly beautiful, the Deco style is far from subtle. It is stark, confident and bold. Its exuberant shapes and geometric line work beg for attention.

A key element is symmetry, perfectly illustrated by the architecture of its heyday – those magnificent towers that loomed like modern day, modernist  pyramids. In the home, the same bold effect can be created with Deco’s trademark chevrons. While furniture can be sparse, patterns are busy, creating hypnotic results.

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2. Velvet = opulence

What self-respecting socialite of the 1930s would have designed a home without plush, lavish furnishings? And when it comes to materials, velvet is by far the most sumptuous and tactile fabric. It goes without saying that there’s no use opting for bland colours when using such a rich finish. Art Deco demands confidence.

Search for furnishings designed by artists with an eye for detail. Think: panelling, buttoning and pleats. High-set legs on chairs and lounges add that extra touch of flair.  

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3. Stay golden

If you’ve got it, flaunt it – that’s the Art Deco mantra. It’s hardly coy or humble. Gold touches on furniture and accessories have always been an important signature of this lavish style. While the material of sofas and armchairs may be soft, the frame can most certainly be a high-gloss gold.

Pair these flourishes with glass, Lucite or crystal inlays, and remember to always keep those lines striking by choosing framework with sweeping curves or sharp angles.

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4. Bold shapes

Don’t miss the opportunity to take advantage of Deco’s most exciting feature – those sunbursts, fans, geometrical and angular shapes. The results of well-designed Deco are jaw-dropping – stunning and brave.

There’s no such thing as being over excessive when dressing your interiors in the Art Deco style, including shapes within shapes, like bone, shell and metal inlays. Possibly the most obviously courageous but visually stunning items are pieces of theatrical furniture, which marry wild innovation with true elegance.

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5. Art Deco wall art

As we mentioned, one of the things that makes Art deco so timeless is the way it permeated every modern medium. There’s no other style quite like it. Some of the designs and fine art of the time are breathtaking. If you don’t want to overcommit, perhaps start with one of these beautiful feature works of art.

Native to the style are oversized posters with undeniable wow factor, using simple line work, bold contrasting colours and trademark geometrical patterns. Popular themes were people, ships, architecture, flora and fauna. Some of the most spectacular advertisements in history come from the Art Deco era, and sported intricate fonts and bold sales pitches.

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6. Hanging lamps

Possibly the only subtle aspect of Art Deco is lighting. With so much vibrance in patterns and shapes, moody, soft ambience is a perfect accompaniment. Try frosted glass to add a little character to your lighting effects, or achieve the same result with geometrical designs.

Metallic surfaces on lamps create that extra pop and create yet another feature item for your luxurious interior.

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7. Shell or scallop patterns on walls

Wallpaper is a key design feature of this design style. Again, be brave by committing to metallic shiny surfaces or textured velvet finishes. Scalloped patterns were the order of the day while hues ranged from bold monochromatic colour-ways through to detailed pastel colour-ways. These shapes and finishes were often paired with gold or silver borders.

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8. Dome chairs

Designbx has already heralded the welcome return of the domed chair, which arrives just in time to help us achieve a truly rich Art Deco feel. There’s something about these large, rounded designs that marries perfectly with Deco.

When used with classic styles, it’s often wise to downplay these items by using colour in a subtle way, but with Deco, there’s no need to hold back. Be brave.

Ready for inspiration?

9. Buildings and architecture

It’s fair to say that Art Deco took the world of architecture by storm. These monuments to modernism are truly spectacular. They beg for attention, with their incredible detail, reflective surfaces and crown-like features.

Like the generation that created them, they were ambitious, reaching for the skies. It was a time when anything was possible. But always note the use of symmetry. There was an elegant type of order and restraint. Somehow this slightly tempered extravagance adds to the appeal of Deco items, large and small.

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10. Lifestyle and parties

Considering it was the same era as The Great Depression, we may have a slightly skewed perception of the 30s, but it was certainly portrayed by Hollywood as a swingin’ time. Big bands and big parties were the order of the day.

Men were dapper, and the feminine form was celebrated. Fashion and personal styles were starkly different and definitely a part of the Deco trend, including intricate detailing like jewels, pearls and sequins. Popular accents included feathers, shells, semi-precious stones and furs. It was a time of glamour – a time to shine.

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Here at Designbx we’re celebrating the return of Deco’s boldness and flamboyance. Let’s live a little, throw caution to the wind and let our interiors strut their stuff. Use our tips and interior design online service to combine courage and refinement to achieve a truly amazing art deco style for your home.

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