Every year, it's the same old story: "What do you think the trends will be for the coming year?" So we rush out to buy the latest interior design magazine and try to summarize it. In the end, we've spent $20 and wonder what we've actually learned apart from the color of the year. Yes, there will always be trends, but do everything you can to ignore them. Don't base your interior design solely on them.
It's not like fashion, which has its own problems, but interior design trends can't be neatly stored away in your closet like your clothes. These "trends" take up residence in the middle of your home, visible to all, waiting for their moment to shine until you get tired of them. And no matter how hard you try to move on, the rhythm of the algorithm will catch up with you, and your once-trendy interior will eventually turn you off.
That being said, we live in a capitalist society, and the need to push trends is part of the ecosystem we have joined or are subject to. So here are our trends for 2024, "trends" that we hope will prevent you from overspending or, in fact, spending your money on just anything.
Go slowly
You will be reminded of the fable of the hare and the tortoise; slow and steady wins the race. Great interiors take time. Warm interiors require feeling. These are two things that cannot be rushed by trying to buy everything at once. Take the time to get a feel for the space and soak it in before you start shopping.
When in doubt, go for white.
No, we are not advocating a return to a strictly minimalist style. However, white has the advantage of avoiding missteps, and you can always decide to paint that wall a different color later, or move your favorite painting to another location without clashing with the color.
Move objects
There's nothing healthier than using items you already have to change up your interior design. You can completely transform the look of your living room by moving your sofa, for example. So get your creative juices flowing and think differently about your interior design without buying new furniture.
Avoid all things technological
A recent article on trends for 2024 stated: "High-tech lighting will be our ally in interior design." At Texture, we strongly disagree with this statement. While well-designed lighting is obviously necessary, you should never base your entire interior design around technology. Nothing ages worse in a house or apartment than the latest trendy technology. In a few years, this technology will be outdated.
Small things, big difference
The first example that comes to mind is backsplashes, one of our favorite interior design elements. Just a few tiles are enough to add a charming touch to your interior. In a modern bathroom, for example, you can add vintage tiles and see how they make all the difference.
Be wary of trends
Getting caught up in a trend can happen faster than you think. Suddenly, we're obsessed with brown, and BAM! Brown is everywhere. Our best advice is to follow trends so you don't look totally out of style, but also, and above all, stick to your ideas; you'll have the last word while everyone else is rushing to buy the next new thing.
Make sure it makes sense
If you are about to buy something, think carefully. Obviously, an immediate purchase can boost your endorphin levels, i.e., your short-term happiness, but take a step back. If you buy something whose real value lies in the label (or trend) rather than in the material or workmanship, the purchase is meaningless. If you buy an item from a company with ethical values or from a craftsperson, the added value of the item is clear. Buying items from ethical companies or true craftspeople not only guarantees you quality and craftsmanship, but also has wider positive repercussions. These purchases contribute to a healthier economy and fair distribution of wealth and have a direct impact on small businesses and artisans. Every order placed with such a company is not just a transaction; it is a meaningful endorsement of their livelihood and values. This approach to shopping encourages a more sustainable and ethical way of consuming.
Inspiration in smaller doses
The visual flow of Instagram is relentless. The repetitive nature of interiors, often imitated and reproduced on our news feeds, can quickly become discouraging. The emergence of AI-generated images only adds to this feeling of disillusionment. In search of inspiration and a new perspective, dive into vintage interior design books instead. Take out regular magazine subscriptions and explore the timeless and authentic perspectives they offer. Contemporary works are also worth checking out, particularly those by Miguel Flores Vianna, whose approach brings a touch of freshness and authenticity to the world of interior design.
Antiques
We must eventually discuss antiques. For most items, you can find genuine gems, often at lower prices. These items are often of high quality, made from noble materials, and have the added benefit of already being produced: good for the planet, good for your home.