#Trendworthy – Design Trends for 2023

At first, “interior design trends” can feel like an oxymoronic term. Decor doesn’t tend to undergo seasonal changes or flash-in-the-pan fads—furniture, textiles, art, and wall coverings are too cumbersome, too expensive, too enduring to update frequently.

When you design a room, as the saying goes, you need to learn to live with it. For a long time.

Yet the pendulum does swing, albeit over years and decades: 1970s shag-carpeted bohemianism gives way to 1980s glitzy excess, which gives way to 1990s palate-cleansing minimalism. So, as fly through 2023—we hold onto interior solutions that are kind to both our sanity and the planet—a sense of permanence is key to understanding which way the 2020s are headed. What will feel timeless or au courant for several years to come, and what is on its way to feeling dated?

---

What’s In?

EARTH TONES

earth tones—which, due thanks to their calming effects and associations with nature, increased in popularity during the pandemic years—still rule three years in. Shades of brown continue their decor dominance, while romantic mauve, Kathryn M. Ireland and Jake Arnold predict, is the color of the year to come. Meanwhile, multiple interior designers are opting for silver accents over gold or bronze. “Its captivating shine and texture lend an everyday sophistication to any space,” says Athena Calderone.

Certain design hallmarks from periods past are also making a return: after the dominance of the laid-back mid-century modern in the aughts and teens, for example, formal accents are now making a comeback. (As Robert D. McKinley surmises, we’re all craving a little more sophistication after spending all that COVID-era time in sweatpants.) A little more controversially, perhaps, brutalism is back in too. Concrete floors anyone?

mix and match metals

Color-coordinating your hardware might look sleek, but in 2023, mixing metals is the move. “Mixed metals in the kitchen will be a strong trend in 2023,” Wendy Word, principal designer of Wendy Word Design says. “Think: bronze, brass, copper, stainless, blackened steel, and more—creating an elevated yet inviting culinary haven in the home.”

The beautiful thing about this trend? You can use it to make your kitchen more functional. Keep your go-to cooking tools out and leave your favorite pots on your stove. “Think of a modern kitchen as a culinary lab … and let your tools be the stars,” Jackie Terrell, principal designer of Jackie Terrell Studio, says. 

STATEMENT GLASS

“Unique statement lighting—especially fabulous Italian Murano chandeliers. Anything that gives off a vintage 1970s and ’80s vibe.” -Sarah Solis

“A mix of ’70s glam with down-to-earth furnishings. I’ve been on a Murano tear for several years now and I don’t think this trend is changing anytime soon. Seeing an oversized Murano chandelier in a neutral modern space is fresh and exciting.” -Danielle Colding

“For the year ahead, we’re excited by the artists and artisans who work by hand with natural materials–ceramics, glass, wood–in beautiful, sophisticated ways.” -Robin Standefer

TEXTURED TILES

“Textured and three-dimensional tiles will be everywhere in 2023. From floors and backsplashes, to shower stalls, fireplaces, and even entire walls, tactile tiles give any surface that organic, handcrafted feel while still holding very subtle contrasts and variations.” -Colin King

LINE YOUR SHELVES WITH ART

In 2023, we’re paring back on open storage— and rethinking our shelves. “We’re moving to open shelving ‘moments’— limited sections of shelving that display curated objects,” Word says. “[And] everyday tabletop is shifting behind cabinet doors.”

So stow away your dishes—and line your shelves with art, instead. “We are seeing kitchens become a place for both functionality and personal expression,” Tara Paquette, junior designer at Aspen & Ivy, says. And Tiffani Baumgart, principal designer of Tiffani Baumgart Interiors, agrees: “Kitchens have long been art-deprived. That’s going to end in 2023.”

What’s Out?

modern farmhouse

As you can expect, the “modern farmhouse” aesthetic has hit its saturation point. It’s now so kitschy and overdone.

“Modern farmhouse architecture and design had its moment and now feels very dated.” -Timothy Corrigan

clutter

Less is more. Having less clutter in a space makes it feel much larger and more inviting, so a lot of designers are implementing seamless storage that you don’t even notice.

“Overlayered beds with multiple throw pillows and layers of blankets is a trend that is quickly going out of style. I love a thoughtful, minimal use of pillows and a bed beautifully draped for an elegant effortless sanctuary.

Lush textural materiality is so much more interesting and sensual than a bed prohibited from being overly dressed. In any space, throw pillows should be minimal, selective, and artful—less is more!” -Sarah Solis

Thanks to Vogue and My Domaine once again for their insight into what’s #Trendworthy for 2023’s months ahead.

What do you think? Let me know below! ↓