Whether you’re reimagining your current space or searching for a new home, it’s important to understand current design and decor trends. Here are our top 10 design trends for 2020.
In Trends
IN: Grandmillennial Style
Image Source: The Glam Pad
If you’ve been looking for a better way to say “traditional with a twist,” grandmillennial style is it. According to Elle Decor, grandmillennial involves incorporating classical design elements like chinoiserie, scalloped edges, natural-fiber rugs and topiaries (pieces your grandma loved) with contemporary elements, like modern art and clean-lined furniture (favorites of the millennial set). That leads us to…
IN: Layering Old and New
Image Source: Lauren Buxbaum Gordon on ElleDecor.com
Don’t worry about your space looking overly put-together or too precious. These days, it’s in style to mix and match your pieces. Don’t be afraid to incorporate antique furniture with travel souvenirs, contemporary art pieces and other accents.
IN: Bold Monochromatics
Image Source: Douglas Friedman on ElleDecor.com
Muted neutrals are out (more on that later) and monochromatically painted rooms in standout colors like kelly green, cobalt blue and aubergine are in. Add accent pieces like gold-and silver-framed mirrors, unique art and chandeliers for a colorful room that suits your personality.
IN: Classic Interiors
Image Source: Old House Online
“Classic” doesn’t have to mean your grandmother’s style circa 1952. These days, it means comfortable furniture with clean lines; elegant materials like crystal, acrylics and interesting woods; and reinterpretations of traditional patterns.
IN: Real Plants and Greenery
Image Source: HGTV
In addition to being visually pleasing, plants are also good for your health. In fact, NBC News reports that studies have proven that indoor plants improve concentration and productivity, reduce stress levels, and boost your mood. Whether you opt for an easy pothos plant in a terra cotta pot or an elaborate biomontage wall full of greenery, plants are an easy way to spruce up your space.
Out Trends
OUT: Decorating in Pale Monochromatics
Rooms with all taupe, all gray or all white interiors—from walls and flooring to furniture and textiles—are both too safe and too dull. Add some visual interest, personality and excitement with colorful walls, patterned furniture and accent pieces like art, vases and mirrors.
OUT: White Doors
Image Source: Tria Giovan on ElleDecor.com
Not long ago, designers recommended that you paint your interior doors and trim white. Research suggests white doors, in particular, are out. Instead, consider dark wood doors, either painted or stained.
OUT: All-White Kitchens
Kitchens should be full of sweet and savory tastes and smells, but sterile, all-white kitchens don't exactly lend themselves to that aesthetic. Southern Living reports that though white cabinets are still popular with remodelers, colorful kitchens are becoming more commonplace. But don’t worry—we think the avocado-green appliances are permanently a thing of the past.
OUT: Open Shelving
Image Source: HGTV
It’s a great idea in theory—glass cabinets or open shelves that show off your beautiful dishes and vases. But the reality is that open shelving means having to keep everything perfectly organized and spotlessly clean. Practicality is back.
OUT: Subway Tile
Image Source: Real Simple
Though it’s been a favorite on many home renovation shows, subway tile is overused and, on its way out. In 2020, embrace tiling and backsplash in new patterns, textures and colors.