Five Design Trends Avoided by Interior Designers in Their Personal Spaces, Sparking Debate on Aesthetic Preferences
Trending, But Not for Every Home:
Hey there! I'm constantly on the hunt for the latest design trends, but not all of them work for every home. You know that feeling when you see a trend and think, "That's cool, but it wouldn't fit in my living room." These are the trends that leave us scratching our heads... or painting our bookshelves red!
1. Fake Greenery: A No-Go?
Artificial plants were among the top trends that designers decided to bypass. While they have their advantages, they can make a space feel staged instead of lived-in. Interior designer, Nina Lichtenstein, suggests keeping them minimal and placed strategically.
If you're wondering whether fake plants are bad Feng Shui, it's not so much about that, but rather the vibrancy and connection to nature that real plants bring. Nina prefers to incorporate real plants in her projects, enhancing aesthetics, air quality, and overall well-being.
2. Shiny, Shiny Chrome:
Next up is chrome. High-gloss chrome decor can feel too cold and impersonal for the warmth designers seek. For a more subtle touch, consider muted metals or warm woods to add texture without making the space harsh.
3. Colorful Kitchen Cabinets: Not So Classic
Interior designer Kristyn Harvey opts against colorful kitchen cabinets. Trends change frequently, and painting permanent fixtures like cabinets can lock you into a particular era. A neutral but warm kitchen cabinet color with slight yellow undertones, like Benjamin Moore's Swiss Coffee, can be a timeless alternative.
4. Open-Concept Spaces: Need a Boundary
While open, airy spaces have their charm, they might not suit every home. Having defined spaces can make a home feel less restful and more like a showroom. Nina advises retaining doors for privacy and coziness, or opting for arched or glass-paneled doors for a subtle separation.
5. Overly Bold Sofas: Too Much of a Good Thing
Though patterned sofas can be chic, they can dominate a space, making it feel overwhelming. Designers suggest experimenting in smaller doses, like patterned throw pillows, before committing to a full-on patterned sofa.
Trends Coming and Going:
Designers tend to avoid trends that don't promote sustainability, customization, warm and personal touches, and timelessness. Fast furniture, generic or filler furniture, and overly trendy colors are being ditched in favor of higher quality, sustainable pieces and warmer neutrals for sofas.
6. Oversized Artwork: Striking a Balance
As for artwork, larger pieces can make a bold statement, but they might overwhelm smaller living spaces. Christopher Scotton, an interior designer, advises choosing pieces that are proportional to your walls and furniture, maintaining a harmonious balance.
7. Minimalist Kitchens: Less Is More, But Not Always
When it comes to kitchen design, minimalism has its appeal, but it might not cater to everyone's lifestyle. A kitchen needs to be functional as well as aesthetically pleasing, and adding some personality through furniture or decorative elements can make this space more welcoming and practical.
8. Clashing Colors: A Caution
Designers urge homeowners to exercise caution when combining colors, as clashing shades can create an chaos rather than harmony. Aitano, an expert in interior design, suggests using complementary colors or tones that work together to create a cohesive and pleasing aesthetic.
9. Lack of Lighting: Dark and Dull
Good lighting can elevate any space and should not be overlooked. Designers advocate for ample and well-placed lighting to enhance the beauty of home-and-garden elements, making the living space brighter, more inviting, and warm.
10. Lack of Personal Touches: Feeling homely
Lastly, interior design trends should reflect the homeowners' tastes and lifestyle. A house becomes a home when it embodies the unique personality of the people within it, and this can be achieved by incorporating personal items, textures, and colors that resonate with the occupants, enhancing their living lifestyle.