Curvaceous cabinetry, textured fabrics, mid-century style and colour confidence are just some of the key looks being talked about in interiors this year. Here some of our favourite Essex-based interior designers share their insights...
Stephanie Rogers, SJS Interiors.
What’s standing out in the way of home interiors for 2024?
“Neutrals will always stand out for me as I love a neutral palette, but I think we are also being drawn towards earthy tones and more natural products which bring that relaxed vibe.
“Warm woods and natural colours I think will be very apparent in the coming year, again creating the earthy feel.”
Key materials, colours, textures you think will be popular?
“Almond beige… yes, my prediction is beige is making its comeback!
“Grey walls everywhere is definitely a no no now, but almond beige with a splash of maybe burnt orange or earthy greens seem to be coming through to the design world.
“Textured fabrics and materials will continue as they were last year but also texture walls such as fabric wallpapers are on my radar to create a soft luxurious feel to any home.”
From a sustainable aspect, do you think this will continue to be an important part of interior design?
“Without a doubt, sustainability is something our industry is conscious of and why would anyone object to this?
“Homeowners and designers are looking to introduce materials that go further, rather than just being something aesthetically pleasing to look at.
“I think we can still achieve the luxurious look and feel but continue the element of sustainable thinking… ‘buy less, buy right’.
Your tips for home styling?
“Go neutral with the base tones, strong with the accents.
“Home styling is such a critical part of any project for me, it’s not just about plumping cushions, ha ha… it’s the part that brings everything together to create a comfortable, functional and aesthetically pleasing space in their home.
“Create styling that is useful too. If you have a bookcase don’t just add those objects, add books! They are such a calming influence in any room.”
What you’re looking forward to in 2024?
“I have some very exciting projects starting and some fantastic projects due for completion that I’m very excited to be able to share. Plus, I’m due to start a full new build property myself. Exciting times ahead!”
sjsinteriordesign.co.uk
@ sjsinteriors
Jade Butcher, An Interior Story.
What’s standing out in the way of home interiors for 2024?
“For me, its colour. We have seen a real shift in colour confidence over the past few years, but 2024 is looking even more colour filled which is great! Colours such as red and yellow, that have felt too bold to have in the home previously, were in abundance at this year’s trade shows. Colour has the potential to make us feel happy in our homes and I think we are starting to realise that, and we are embracing it more.”
Key materials, colours, textures you think will be popular?
“Organic shapes are still really popular, and I’ve seen a trend for combining organic shapes with natural materials, such as handmade, slightly misshapen ceramics. I think this is due to a resurgence in love for craftmanship and appreciating the story behind an item. There’s something that feels magical about a handmade piece of furniture that you don’t necessarily get from a mass-produced piece.”
From a sustainable aspect, do you think this will continue to be an important part of interior design?
“Yes, I think sustainability is always going to be at the forefront of design going forward. I always design with longevity in mind, and this means sourcing good quality items and will last. I also think it’s important to follow your own tastes rather than trends and where you can, opt for pieces that have been made with good quality or sustainable materials. These items can often be more expensive, so if your budget is small, you can find some absolute gems on places like Facebook marketplace that you can upcycle and give a new home.”
Your tips for home styling?
“Add some bold accessories, such as a red high gloss candle holder or a large, patterned vase to create some fun and interest. Look for pieces that have scalloped edges and wavy lines as these feel playful and also restful at the same time. Don’t source everything from the same place as this can make things look too ‘staged.’ Find items when you are on your travels or look on handmade marketplaces such as Etsy to find unique items that will tell a story.”
What you’re looking forward to in 2024?
“I’m really looking forward to helping more people be brave with colour next year and being bold with their design choices. Colour shouldn’t be scary, when you step outside your front door you will instantly see an abundance of colour!
“I have some really great projects in the pipeline for next year, including one of the largest projects I have taken on which is really exciting!”
interiorstoriesdesign.co.uk
@aninteriorstory
Samantha Morphew, Morph Designs.
What’s standing out in the way of home interiors for 2024?
“There is a real demand for natural woods especially oak finishes. Revealed arms on chairs as seen in the past from designs from Ercol are making a huge come back. Not like it ever went out of fashion, but the mid-century look is making a huge come back.”
Key materials, colours, textures you think will be popular?
“Neutral interiors will always have their place in the home and be appealing to all. Warm pebble tones with a taupe element will be predominant. Grey tones seem to be fading out of fashion and the pebble neutral base is replacing what can be a cold colour.
“Layers in interiors such as wall panelling in a stain wood finish rather than painted. The mix of this look with painted walls creates that architectural interior look which looks expensive and uber stylish.
“Mixing in upholstery with rounded corners and a pattern based on a neutral cloth. This allows a visual point and a different shape in the space. Textures in a neutral scheme will add warmth and cosy vibes.
“Tiles with pattern or creating a pattern layout will be on trend and also create that wow factor to your bathroom space. Even though interiors may be slightly pared back with colour, be bold with interior purchases and choices to create that statement look.”
Your tips for home styling in 2024?
“Dressing your home for seasons is always a key look. Not expensive ways to dress such as a purchase of a scented candle or a changeup of cushions designs. Colour appropriate with accessories with the seasons to add warmth, cool and fresh vibes to the home.”
What you’re looking forward to in 2024?
“We cover commercial design, but domestic interior design is our bread and butter. We have some great projects for next year in Colchester and surrounding areas. A mix of many styles of houses so the design brief will be rather different for all. It’s always wonderful as a designer not to churn out the same look. I love listening to my client’s needs and then creating the perfect design brief to follow.
We will also be working closely with Essex Architects next year on some exciting home renovations.”
morphdesigns.co.uk
@morphdesignsltd
Claire Orders, Claire Orders Interiors.
What’s standing out in the way of home interiors for 2024?
“Curvaceous design and cabinetry. No longer deemed as old fashioned, adding an arch immediately adds architectural interest to a space whilst the curves soften the look. The key is to not overdo it though. Keep to one or two arches and make them a standout feature rather than adding them on every doorway.”
Key materials, colours, textures you think will be popular?
“Fabrics on walls and ceilings are having a revival and I can see this continuing well 2024. We've also seen Grasscloth on walls having a surge of popularity. It instantly adds texture and depth to a space and we are huge fans in introducing this extra layer into our designs. Whilst Rattan is only set to get bigger, it adds a certain element of tactility and as we move towards a more laid-back aesthetic in our homes, this rustic element is a trend that's not going away any time soon. In terms of colours, think warm and calming neutrals. We've seen the introduction of soft buttery yellows, earthy, stony tones, chalky pinks and terracotta which all evoke warmth and harmony, and we will see much more of these muted hues throughout the year.”
Your tips for home styling in 2024?
“Undone interiors. Whilst the feeling of luxury remains, we want something more approachable and less contrived. Using materials and textures that are less formal and more comfortable create a relaxed environment. I think we should all embrace the imperfections of an antique piece that tells their own personal story. Not only does it allow you to own something unique, it adds interest to an interior and can be easily incorporated into an existing scheme. Antique Fairs and brocantes are the perfect places to pick up all sorts of interesting pieces, my favourite being The Decorative Living Fair held annually at Eridge Park, in Kent.
From a sustainable aspect, do you think this will continue to be an important part of interior design?
“Absolutely. Antiques have never gone out and repurposing and recycling furniture will be a continued focus in 2024.”
What you’re looking forward to in 2024?
“We've been lucky enough to have had the opportunity to work with some very special properties this year, one in particular being a Grade II* listed manor house that has a mention in the Doomsday Book. We are also excited to start redesigning a lovely annex in the new year, for a family looking to convert the current ground floor garage space into a beautiful playroom for their three boys with guest accommodation above.”
claireorders.co.uk
@claireordersinteriors
