Many of us have been spending more time than usual at home, so if you're getting a little bored of looking at the same walls every day, a seasonal refresh will give your wellbeing a much-needed boost, too.
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Last year, we loved seeing Santa Fe style and urban jungle looks sweep the interiors scene. So what's in store for 2021? Decor trends are turning towards diverse new looks, inspired by nature, lavish glamour or simple, home comforts. We've done the research to share seven looks that we're loving this year, as well as tips on how to use each one in your home.
So, if your space is in need of an update, why not get ahead of the curve by embracing one of the trends getting hot right now:
Nature-inspired decor
Nature-inspired decor is a favourite theme at YourHomeStyle HQ, and the fall-flavoured take on the look emphasises warm colours and comforting textures to create a calm haven for hibernation!
To capture the seasonal shift, bring in rich, intense hues such as sage, damson, berry, peacock blue, russet and ochre.
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Mirror the materials and textures found in enchanting forests and rugged British landscapes by blending these characteristic colours with ute, wool and rustic fabrics and materials such as untreated wood or natural stone like travertine.
Although nature is starting to wither, it doesn’t mean you can’t preserve some of its beauty. Display dried and pressed grass and flower arrangements to bring a spot of nature into your living or dining space.
Our expert says...
‘After spending more time at home this year, it’s natural that our interiors take on an even greater importance. A desire to feel connected and closer to nature is becoming evident as people try to strike a balance between well-being and productivity. There’s also a tendency towards biophilia and bringing the outside world into the everyday; people are introducing dried plants into their homes and combining these with flora and fauna motifs on wood and wool. Organic, undyed shades can be paired with an autumnal colour palette to create snug sanctuaries that feel full of life.’ - Jemma Dayman, Junior Buyer at Carpetright
You also won’t be surprised to hear that a plethora of wild creatures feature aplenty in this scheme; welcome soft furnishings and artworks with motifs such as owls, deer, hedgehogs, badgers and foxes to channel this charming rural theme.
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Grown-up glamour
Luxurious, lavish and dramatic are three words that epitomise this deco-inspired scheme.
The trend isn’t for the faint-hearted – it radiates confidence with lashings of bold block colours including midnight blue, deep teal, blush pink and jet black, as well as signature autumnal hues of russet, rust and berry.
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The furniture designs of Grown-up Glamour are no less opulent, as they take inspiration from 1930s elegance with fluid lines and flowing curves. Think show-stealing scallop-back chairs styled with unique lamps and polished vases. The geometric fan shape, typical of the art deco period, features in abundance on luxe wallpaper, soft furnishings and abstract prints.
Dramatic style rules this scheme, so show off your flamboyance with art deco patterned wallpaper, plush velvet, silk accessories, gold-edged mirrors, grand sideboards, and richly coloured accent chairs and sofas.
Our expert says...
‘If you’re colour confident, then this autumn is the time to take the plunge and redecorate at least one room in a rich hue. My favourite way to achieve this look is to go bold. For the ultimate statement, create an ultra-luxe, all-encompassing, floor-to-ceiling finish in one colour. Using a single shade to cover the skirting boards, walls, ceilings and window frames adds a sense of grandeur and creates a boutique hotel look, which provides a backdrop for sophisticated furnishings and accessories.’ - Helen Shaw, Director at Benjamin Moore
This interior also demands a dose of bling, so bring in touches of metallic gold, rose, brass, bronze and copper – all things shiny and elegant will complement this look. You can introduce these glistening pieces with a luxe drinks trolley alongside striking lamps and pendant lights.
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Cottage decor
Escape to the country with a this traditional look, packed with rustic charm and heritage details.
This look is defined by matt, soft-hued finishes that bring out the delicate details of Shaker-style cabinetry and wood panelling. Colours are kept muted, with classic blues and whites warmed up by sage green and mustard yellow. Red accents add depth and richness.
Pattern is used sparingly to create small areas of contrast against the clean, pastel paintwork. Consider using stencilling on walls and woodwork for a traditional feel.
It’s a look that’s practical as well as pretty, as the pared-back style is easy to clean. Hard-wearing fabrics cover furnishings and additional accessories are easily thrown in the washing machine. Nicks and scuffs can be sanded back and repainted. This look really stands the test of time.
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Global glamour
Travel the world from home with a look inspired by traditional crafts from around the globe.
In this trend, subtly textured walls, large furnishings and carpets provide a blank canvas for irresistibly tactile accessories. Bobbles, knots, tufts and tassels are everywhere.
Comfort is key, so pile up floor pillows, pouffes and cushions to create a relaxed and low-profile look you can recline into. Fill rustic ceramic pieces and vases with natural materials to bring charming irregularities and rich visual interest.
Keep this look chic with a restricted palette of delicate earth tones, while a flush of dusky pink gives a feminine edge. Strong geometric patterns created by the thickly woven textiles are complemented by abstract, hand-drawn prints. The Japandi style is a prime example of global glamour.
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Grandmillennial style
Revel in the eccentricities of this wildly eclectic look that’s a flamboyant feast for the senses.
Floral patterns on a variety of scales are mixed and matched with abandon. Tropical blooms are paired with dainty cottage garden plants and big, blowsy roses. Intricate Persian-style rugs add to the fascinating jumble of prints.
Dramatic jewel tones give the look richness and depth. Forest green makes rose pink really pop and regal purple brings out the luminosity of mustard yellow.
Fringing and velvet are the key textures of this look, they’re combined with the subtle sheen of eggshell emulsion and sateen that reflects light without gloss.
Embossed glass and metallic finishes create twinkling highlights that glitter against the dark-hued colours.
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Simple Comforts
If an escape to the simplicity of the countryside is what you’re after, then this trend is for you. Understated, honest style is at the heart of this comforting scheme, with its emphasis on pared-back pigments, natural woven textures and unfussy furnishings.
The homely look is best suited to a place with character, one that boasts bare brick walls, parquet flooring and exposed wooden beams.
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Simple Comforts is a look that’s easy to replicate in almost any room by using a mixed palette of warming neutrals, including oatmeal and beige, as well as a few cooling greys to add balance to the scheme.
Intersperse these hues with subtle hints of dusky pink, sage green, rust and terracotta, along with a dark accent hue of navy blue if you want to further emphasise the feelings of serenity and calm.
Our expert says...
‘Having spent a lot of time around the house recently, comfort has become more important than ever, so investing in high-quality furnishings that are cosy and well-made is a must. If you’re not looking to replace your seating, you can achieve a feeling of being cosseted by investing in other items of furniture or accessories. You may notice that you’re missing the feel of a soft rug underfoot, or that you need a side table for your drinks and magazines, or a floor lamp that emits a soft glow.’ - Suzy McMahon, Buying Director at Sofology
This trend draws its textures from nature, with woollen throws, sheepskin accessories, cable-knit cushions, Berber carpets, jute rugs and weathered wood tables.
Blend these with other snug furnishings such as sofas you can sink into and cream-coloured, brushed linens. This combination of tactile textures, comfortable furnishings and soft colours will create a safe, hygge haven in which you can relax and unwind.
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Bold gold accents
Channel your inner diva with an unashamedly luxe look that’s full of sumptuous details.
Palm leaves, leopard print and starburst motifs bring to mind the icons of classic Hollywood. Consistent gold finishes on furniture, textiles and even the wallpaper tie the look together.
Faux fur and shearing textures make luxurious additions. You’ll find them covering floors and bedding everywhere this season.
Statement lighting creates a sense of high drama. Chandeliers, elaborate floor lamps and shimmering candles bring out the golden glow of the rest of the room.
This look will bring extra glitter and an instant party atmosphere to festive schemes later in the year.