Top Home Design Trends for 2023

January 29, 2023

2023 has just begun, and with it comes new resolutions and commitments to improve and upgrade pretty much everything — our lives, our clothes, our food and of course, our homes. Want the scoop on what home decor is here to stay and which new trends will get you a step ahead of the Toronto crowd? Read on for the design trends we can’t get enough of for 2023.

What are some home design trends you think might be on the way out this year?

Neutral colour pallets comprised of beige and grey will not be the dominant trend this year. Hallmarks of the “modern organic” home decor trend, these calm colour schemes were popular as many of us were dealing with the stress of the pandemic and the transition to working from home, needing a serene environment to cope.

While there will always be use for neutrals, I expect more vibrant and charismatic colours will be popular in 2023.

I’m noticing more folks are drawn to eclectic decor, meaning the “modern organic: aesthetic is on its way out. Kitschy accessories and fun patterns will be popular as home decor can be a way to express your personality.

What trends are here to stay?

Vintage furniture is here to stay, especially as eclectic home decor is in. While vintage furniture is timeless to some degree, I expect it to be a dominant trend.

Curved furniture was definitely trendy in 2022 and I see this lasting through 2023. However, I expect this will have more of an art deco feel than the “modern organic” feel. I think art deco accessories and colours will be trending, with many of the colours of the year being red and pink hues reminiscent of this era. I also expect wallpaper will remain popular, drawing from the geometric patterns popular in the 1920s versus the floral and grasscloth designs prominent in 2022.

Fluted walls and panelling are still having a moment. These elements not only add visual interest, but can be used to create hidden storage, concealing televisions, cabling or even toys.

Lastly, dedicated home work spaces are here to stay as working from home has long outlasted lockdowns.

What are the top five new trends you predict will be popular in 2023?

Rich, saturated and dramatic hues and a burst of colour will dominate 2023 in a few ways. However, I expect some contrast as well, such as gothic home decor elements and dark hues being mixed with pastels. You will see a lot of moody rooms and explosions of colour.

I believe multi-purpose interiors will also be a staple. A kitchen is not just a kitchen anymore — on weekdays, it could serve as a homework station and a place for entertaining guests.

Mixing the old with the new will also be popular. I’m passionate about refurbishing and repurposing older and antique furniture pieces. With supply chain issues, reclaimed materials have become popular in home decor. I see this trend lasting as it gives homeowners something uniquely theirs that others won’t have.

Lastly, I see red and pink hues being popular in home decor. From Benjamin Moore’s Raspberry Blush to Pantone’s Viva Magenta, there will be red and pink everywhere, from wall colours to accessories.

What are your thoughts on following home design trends?

Stick with what you love; choose things that make you happy. If you are unsure of where to start when it comes to home decor, take a look at your wardrobe. The clothes you wear every day can tell you a lot about what you are drawn to aesthetic-wise. Are you into patterns or solid colours? Do you enjoy dramatic silhouettes or lush fabrics? Drawing inspiration from what you already like is a good way to ensure you won’t grow tired of your home decor.

What are some of the most cost-effective ways to make small updates to your home that can change the whole look and feel of a space?

Colours can easily change the vibe of a room. I’m telling you — a can of paint can work magic! Rotating small accessories such as pillows, rugs, lamps, wall art or bedding can instantly update the look of a room without having to splurge on big ticket items. Lastly, green never goes out of style. Incorporating natural elements goes beyond plants — colours like emerald green and navy blue can add some life to a neutral base without causing a headache.

What are the best ways for homeowners to keep their home up-to-date, but also classic and timeless?

I recommend using classic pieces throughout your space. Go for clean lines and classic design. Look to furniture schools such as Shaker, mid-century modern or American traditional styles. These pieces will seamlessly integrate into your home as design trends change or you incorporate new pieces.

To avoid impulse buys or home decor decisions, ask yourself the following questions:

• Would I buy this if it was more expensive?
• Do I have a place for this?
• Do I love this, and does it make me feel good?

Don’t just go straight to the pink curve boucle sofa that’s trendy right now.

RED BARRINUEVO

Toronto-based, award-winning Interior Stylist, Red Barrinuevo is an Interior Decorator and Principal of Redesign4more, servicing clients in Toronto and the GTA. The firm’s known for enhancing and creating stylish yet functional spaces through its creative home staging, interior styling services, and design services.  www.redesign4more.com.