_Interior design trends 2023: experts explain the key home décor styles for the year ahead

We’ve noticed our clients placing an increased importance on home recently. Your house isn’t just a property, it needs to provide comfort, conviviality and joy. These themes are echoed in the predicted design trends for 2023.

Sustainability

The concept of sustainability isn't really a trend, it’s a shift in perspective and the ways we live. Sustainability is the future and this is evident in the products available to us and the ways that we want to style our homes.

Our Knight Frank Interiors designer Sophie Rastrick explains:

“Sustainability is very special as we're being increasingly mindful of the world around us and the environment we live in, so are now so much more aware of what we design and how it impacts well-being and nature.”

“This year we expect to see sustainability at the forefront of many interior design trends.
Our designers have been attending lots of design shows including Decorex in London and Maison Object in Paris, where sustainable designs are one of the key themes. It’s exciting to see the beautiful designs that new and existing suppliers are producing that are not only good to the planet but will be beautiful additions to our schemes.”

Many interior design trends of 2023 fall into the categories of sustainable or wellness. People are placing more importance on healthy living, achieving better balance and protecting our planet.

Read our interview with sustainable furniture designer, Brodie O'Neill in The View

Natural elements

“We’re predicting that naturals are going to be a big thing in 2023. From stone to wools, we think earthy tones are going to be at the centre our designs” says Rastrick.

Wooden furniture has been popular for some time now. But softer materials like bamboo, wicker and rattan are coming to the fore again. Being malleable, they can be constructed into interesting shapes and designs. Wickerwork is no longer just for the outdoors, it now hits the mark for interiors too, being environmentally-friendly and chic.

Woven finishes and wobbly-lined weave are on the rise. They continue this trend for natural and ‘imperfect’ styles. Woven products add texture and interest but they're not uniform and consistent.

Look out for statement stones too. Marble has been on trend for some time, but expect to see new colour ways. Deep, midnight blue with pale streaks is appearing in bathrooms in particular. Hefty stone also makes an impact as a tabletop combined with elegant metal framework.

Modern Renaissance

Elegance and grace are back on the menu in 2023. Interesting architectural aspects such as intricate curves, cylindrical shapes, columns and arches are finding new life in modern furnishings. Softer than sharp and angular designs, curved or arched edges can be comforting and relaxing whilst still adding a touch of grandeur. This design trend doesn’t have to apply to architecture solely. Look out for curved sofas, tables, rugs, mirrors and sculptural pieces. Eye-catching and unusual, they make a proud statement.

Curvaceous wooden furniture also aligns with the nostalgic 70s vibe which is having renewed time in the sun. The more fluid forms are fun, unusual and friendly – fabulous feelings to inject into your home.

Art Deco style

We’ll take vintage inspiration from the Art Deco period. Look out for geometric patterns and symmetry in interior design. This can be in striking tiling on floors and walls, intricate wallpaper patterns or in textile design on bedding or curtains for example. In this Art Deco inspired design at Caron Place, the Knight Frank Interiors team used dark tones and symmetrical shapes on cabinetry alongside opulent fabrics and lighting. 

Wellness at home

"Biophilic design is significant as interior design and wellbeing are inextricably linked. The home has long been associated with refuge, somewhere to relax after a stressful day or a private space to reflect. Scientists have undertaken studies on this topic and found that specific colours, accessories, and trends can evoke people’s positive and negative emotional responses" says Sophie Rastrick.

The home spa is being incorporated into more properties. As we place ever more importance on our health and wellbeing, spaces to retreat, relax and recuperate from daily stresses become necessities rather than luxuries. This could be as simple as transforming a bathroom into a soothing haven with attractive tiling and thoughtful design. The outdoor spa and wellness area is also increasing in popularity, incorporating zones for exercise, meditation and breathwork into our everyday lives.

Year-round colour

Digital Lavender was announced as Colour of the Year for 2023 by the trend forecaster WGSN. Again, this emphasises the current focus on wellness and balance. The idea of switching off from devices and relaxing in natural lavender hues strikes a chord with many people living busy lives.

In stark contrast, Pantone heralds Viva Magenta as its Colour of the Year. It’s vibrant, full of vim and vigour, yet it’s still a natural colour, exuding energy and optimism.

“In this age of technology, we look to draw inspiration from nature and what is real. PANTONE 18-1750 Viva Magenta descends from the red family, and is inspired by the red of cochineal, one of the most precious dyes belonging to the natural dye family as well as one of the strongest and brightest the world has known. Rooted in the primordial, PANTONE 18-1750 Viva Magenta reconnects us to original matter. Invoking the forces of nature, PANTONE 18-1750 Viva Magenta galvanizes our spirit, helping us to build our inner strength.” Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director, Pantone Color Institute

Our experts at Knight Frank Interiors predict “Darker tones in deep red and peach tones for seating in the autumn and winter of 2023.” The other 4 colours for spring and summer are Sundial, Luscious Red, Tranquil Blue and Verdigris, all of which emanate from nature and remind us of the beauty in our environment.

The importance of a home

Michael Houldon, Head of Sales, Knight Frank Cambridge observes that, “Nesting has returned. People want a ‘home’ not a property, more than ever.” With more flexible working practices and a renewed enthusiasm for a better balance in our lives, homes need to offer us more now. Alongside this, Houldon reflects that, “People are appreciating communities more. They’re appreciating homes more too which is heart-warming.”

Consequently, our homes need to feel welcoming and comfortable for family and friends. ‘Conviviality’ is a theme being attached to 2023. Our living spaces and the furnishings within them need to appear inviting and set up for entertainment and conversation. Having been denied this privilege, people are placing great importance on creating a home fit for spending time together happily.