Interior Design & Furniture Trends to Look Out For in 2020
2019 was a year of art deco inspired furniture, vibrant colours, atmospheric lighting and opulent maximalism. I think we’ll still see some of these influences in 2020, but there will definitely be a shift towards softer, more sustainable design. We’ll see this in earth tones, natural materials and a focus on organic form.
Here are the five interior design and furniture trends I think will be huge in 2020.
- Rattan and Wicker Furniture
Rattan furniture is being brought in from the cold in 2020. This 1970s trend is seeing a resurgence but with a fresh, modern take. Because instead of just outdoor rattan tables and chairs, we’re seeing rattan used indoors in cabinets, lampshades, bed frames and wardrobes.
It’s part of the wider bohemian trend, where natural materials, earth tones, and carefully crafted pieces are prized. This isn’t the dark toned, cheaply produced rattan of your childhood – this is a serious upgrade. The rattan itself is more tightly woven and lighter in colour, adding just a touch of tactile texture to a space. Most importantly, designers are producing furniture using real rattan, so the quality is higher and pieces are built to last.
- Classic Blue
In December, Pantone declared Classic Blue the colour of the year for 2020. Classic Blue is a rich, versatile navy that will likely endure long past it’s time as colour of the year.
This, it seems, is the whole point. Pantone picked Classic Blue because, "We are living in a time that requires trust and faith," said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Colour Institute, "It is this kind of constancy and confidence that is expressed by Pantone 19-4052 Classic Blue, a solid and dependable blue hue we can always rely on."
Expect to see Classic Blue everywhere next year. Particularly in upholstered and painted furniture pieces. Deep blue velvet sofas are already cropping up everywhere, while Annie Sloan’s Napoleonic Blue chalk paint colour is perfect for upcycling tired furniture.
- Curves
The 2010s saw lots of structure and linearity in furniture design. In 2020 that will all change as furniture takes on a more organic form.
This sudden shift towards elegant curves and soft asymmetry is certainly influenced by the increasing popularity of biophilic design. If you’re not yet familiar with biophilic design, it’s an architectural and interior design concept that strives to improve one’s connection with the natural world. This is achieved directly, by using plants or taking advantage of a great view, or indirectly, by introducing organic forms and botanical prints. Biophilic design isn’t just aesthetically pleasing; it’s also likely to benefit health and well-being.
In 2020 look out for sweeping sofas, oval coffee tables, rounded arm chairs and just generally curvier furniture. Think 1960s design but with a pared-back contemporary twist.
- Vintage and Antiques
The sustainability movement has been making serious waves recently and its reach has extended far into fashion and interior design.
This means antique and vintage furniture and accessories will see a resurgence like never before. The type of vintage furniture that will prove popular will vary as it’s not just lovers of a particular style or decade leading this trend. It’s people from all walks of life looking to reduce their consumption, so we’ll see a wide variety of styles and eras making a comeback.
If looked after, vintage and antique furniture will accrue value over time, so this trend is an investment in your home and your bank balance.
- New Traditionalism
This trend shuns modern minimalism and instead embraces cosy – but carefully edited – traditional style.
If you like Laura Ashley prints, embroidered linens, fringing, pleated lamp shades (and curtains), vintage furniture, ruffles and Chinoiserie, then you will love this trend.
It might sounds old-fashioned and frumpy to some, but this trend is actually being led by a wave of trendy millenials. They’re fusing classic design with modern art and furniture to create warm and inviting homes. New Traditionalist’s have an appreciation for the past but put a new spin on it so it’s fresh and unique.
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