Have you ever heard the saying, “what is old is new again?” Whoever coined the phrase may have been referring to bellbottom jeans and platform shoes, but it also applies to home decor.
Most trends have an expiry date, but certain styles are timeless and refuse to be held back.
Nowhere is that more true than in home decor.
What you once saw in your grandmother’s house is now featured in designer magazines.
Here are just a few of the timeless styles that are soaring to popularity again in 2022.
1) Wicker, Rattan and Bamboo
In the 1970s, wicker, rattan and bamboo were all the rage. And why not? They last forever and go with everything. Their light weight and durability have made these go-to materials since ancient times, but the late 60s and early 70s are practically defined by them. Everything from chairs, lampshades and even headboards were weaved with wicker.
And according to Home and Gardens, wicker, rattan, and bamboo were big favourites for designers in 2021.
We expect this trend to continue well into 2022 and beyond.
The trick to decorating with wicker is to keep it tasteful and not overdo it.
The idea is to be inspired by the 1970s, not trapped in them.
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2) Conversation Pits
Also known as a “sunken living room,” conversation pits soared in popularity in the 1950s across North America.
The idea was for large groups of people to get together and socialize in an intimate setting. Step down into the lush, circular couches decorated with cozy cushions, and you could expect hours of relaxed, enjoyable conversation.
The popularity of conversation pits dried up in the 1980s but has made an impressive comeback in the last few years.
Modern designs feature vibrant colours in outdoor settings, like solariums and garden rooms.
3) Modular Furniture
In the 1940s, furnishing your home with modular furniture was the epitome of style and luxury. Only the most successful and wealthy families could afford these versatile pieces that would later be known as the “Hollywood Look.”
Later generations discarded the modular trend as mass production made all types of furniture more affordable for everyday people.
But modular furniture is back, and this time, it’s not about the glamour. It’s about the functionality.
Young homeowners especially love how you can change and configure the furniture to suit your needs in the moment.
For example, a modular sofa comes with moveable sections called “modules.” You can arrange them into an “L shape,” a “U shape,” or into a bed for overnight guests.
Modular furniture is ideal for anyone living in small or unusual spaces and is quickly becoming a fashionable trend for homeowners all over the country.
4) Abstract Art
Absurd or pure creative genius? Art aficionados have always argued and debated the merits of abstract pieces.
For a while, it seemed that the abstract art craze was in the past. It was common to hear people crack jokes about “my five-year-old can draw better than that.” Love it or hate it, abstract art is back in style.
Its appeal defies logic. What one person finds absurd seems like pure magic to someone else.
Here’s a tip for finding the perfect abstract piece for your home. Think of this quote from Picasso: “There is no abstract art. You must always start with something. Afterward, you can remove all traces of reality.”
Abstract art may look like nonsense to your friends, but what matters is that it speaks truth to you.
5) Wood Panelling
Wood panelling is another design trend associated with the 1970s. Not long ago, if you bought a house with wood panelling on the walls, you couldn’t rip it out fast enough. But now, this style is on its way back – with a twist, of course. No longer do you panel the entire house. Instead, try decorating an accent wall using creative designs and a touch of asymmetrical geometry.
As with any decor, moderation and tasteful placement are the secrets to making wood panelling work.
6) Wall Paper
Many style experts would like to pretend the 1980s never happened. The era is largely associated with decadent decor like mirrors everywhere, neon colours and garish excess of every kind. And let’s not forget about the wallpaper in every room of the house.
Homebuyers in the 90s spent many hours scraping off floral wallpaper and vowing “never again.”
However, wallpaper is in vogue again. Not the over-the-top design of the 80s, but a more artistic, minimalistic flavour.
If you’re considering giving wallpaper a second chance, think moderation and artistry. There is no need to cover your house from top to bottom. A splash of colourful paper on an accent wall, tastefully placed, can give new life to any room of your home.
What other design trends should you watch out for in the coming year? Find out more unique and classy ways to decorate your home in these other articles:
- Very Peri: How to Use the 2022 Pantone Colour of the Year in Your Home Decor
- Five Home Decor Predictions for 2022
- Five Luxury Design Features in Modern Toronto Homes
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