With the sting of the recession still fresh, most of us are glad to see 2009 fade away. We are optimistic that 2010 will provide a fresh start for a new decade. That optimism brings change and reflection, which impacts how we live our lives, including how we design our homes. We are influenced by what lies ahead—hoping for better days, but being practical in all we do.
Looking forward to 2010, here are four key, up and coming in-home design trends.
1. Optimistic colors will come on strong. As we come out of a long and deep recession, people want to feel happy. They will surround themselves with colors that make them feel better.
2. Designing homes for accessibility and flexibility will become the focus of remodeling design. People are holding on to their homes and deciding to stay put. As the baby boom generation (ages 46 – 64) hits their stride, they will look for ways to stay independent longer, and invest in design and products that allow them to grow old in their own home.
3. Global style with a modern twist will accent new designs for fabrics, accessories and furniture. As the world becomes smaller, and its events and influences are just a computer click away, people are becoming more global. We are influenced by the beauty of design from all parts of the earth. Asian, Middle Eastern and South American styles will become a part of the picture, but re-interpreted for a new generation. Look for a simpler style that is clean, elegant and exotic—no matter the region of the world.
4. Sustainability and the use of renewable products will continue to grow in popularity. As we become more global citizens, the movement to preserve and to wisely use our natural resources will grow. Green products will continue to find their way into every segment and style of home fashion. “Reuse, Recycle and Renew” will continue to be the mantra for 2010. Doing with less and reusing what we have is not only smart for our planet, but smart for our wallets as well.
Throughout the coming year, I will focus on these four trends and show how you can stay up-to-date, as well as become a trend setter. This issue’s focal point is optimistic colors.
As the recession begins to fade, we need to remain optimistic and have a little “happy” in our lives. As such, people will be turning to color. We will see a surge of vibrant colors in all hues—blues, greens, reds, oranges and purples will take center stage. The key to staying current is to make sure you pick hues that are clear, fresh and clean. Everyone wants to start the New Year and the new decade with fun and high energy, and the colors you choose will reflect this.
Also, and just as important, since we are still being cautious with our money, people will be purchasing smaller items for room decorations—pillows, throws, accessories, lamps, rugs. They will feel more at ease buying fun, trendy items that add a little pizzazz to a space versus big ticket items. Pieces, like an orange lamp, a lime green pillow, a yellow vase or a turquoise rug could be just the thing to lift a room out of dullness and boredom. Just a few items of the same color in a room can instantly update your space and lift your spirits.
When determining what specific color to use in your house, consider Turquoise, which is becoming the hot color for 2010. Pantone, the global color authority, has picked turquoise as the color of the year (www.pantone.com). This color exudes calmness and tranquility, that we all seek, yet still possesses the energy and optimistic properties that are popular in 2010—truly a perfect balance.
So, as your first design step of 2010, look throughout your home and see where you can add a burst of happy, optimistic color. Just adding an item or two can completely change a room, as well as your mood. And, if you have something that can be repainted, reinvented and reused; you just scored bonus points for following two of this year’s hottest trends.
Would you like to have your design dilemma considered for an upcoming issue? Just send an e-mail to designerguy@haskellinteriors.com.
Hank Matheny, ASID, IIDA, CAPS is the owner and principal designer of Haskell Interiors located in historic downtown Cleveland, Tennessee.
www.haskellinteriors.com.