Last week was all about the hot new color directions for 2011. Today will be a little more far ranging and show you style and home decorating trends according to a few popular designers. I wrote an in-depth article predicting trends in 2009 and will reiterate something I said then…. “Something I’ve always found interesting is that every year four or five styles and color palettes are introduced to designers and the public as the “latest / newest / hottest” trend. Each style is given a clever name and wrapped in lots of shiny words of explanation.” The end result, more of the same, but with a little twist. I guess it’s the twists that keep us coming back for more.
HGTV Designer Predictions
Candice Olson, HGTV: “Natural materials with organic textures and finishes will become even more popular.” Wallpaper, upholstery and draperies in neutral, nature-inspired patterns will be making their appearances.
This trend isn’t really a new trend, it’s an ongoing love affair with neutral color palettes and light, natural colors. For years using neutral colors as a basis for home decor is the default solution – the twist for this year is the addition of the key word “organic”. To me that implies an effort to be more environmentally conscious when choosing furnishings, fabrics and accessories.
Wallpaper via YorkWall.com; Candice Olson collection #CX1202; Using natural cork tiles on the floor or wallpaper in a cork pattern will add warmth and texture to your room.
Photo via BHG.com
Neutral colors, natural fibers, local sources embrace the essence of Olson’s design philosophy.
Tommy Smythe, HGTV: “Brass is the new chrome. Smythe says colors will more closely follow fashion (don’t they always?) and you’ll be seeing more orange, purple and gray. Gray was making a strong appearance last year with orange as a frequent companion.
Vintage lamp via GI Designs.net
If you believe Pantone, this year orange will be replaced with hot pink honeysuckle as the accent color de jour. As you’ll see below, Genevieve agrees that gray continues to be a strong color for 2011. Now that I’m looking to make some color changes in my home, I’m attracted to gray as my new neutral.
Photo via Campbell Designs LLC.com
This warm but grayed down orange is a lovely spark against the gray walls and black and white bedding. Notice that the wood chest has orange tones as well. Last week’s color trends post showed a couple of rooms with gray and the hot pink honeysuckle.
Genevieve Gorder, HGTV: Gorder is loving blush tones (pink, corals) with oyster and gray. Bold ikat and suzani patterns are popular and she agrees with Smythe that brass (especially old, worn brass) is ‘the’ metal. Vintage accessories and frames are a favorite of her looks for 2011.
Antique brass lamp via Richard Rothstein.com
Ikat patterns are showing up everywhere and if you’re not tired of the look, it’s a great way to add bold pattern to a room and give it a global flair.
Ikat pattern rug via House Beautiful.com
Ikat pattern rug via Tara Bernerd.com
Ikat pattern pillows via D-vers.com
Sarah Richardson, HGTV: Using unexpected color combinations is a trend that Richardson sees becoming stronger. Pairing pink and green and orange might seem daring and bold, but with a mix of unexpected accessories and fabrics, the colors can tie together surprisingly well. Her key word for 2011, “unexpected”.
Photo of Jamie Drake's home, via Elle Decor.com
Toronto design firm 3rd Uncle predicts a return to a more nostalgic look using collectibles and family memorabilia. They see home interiors moving to a more eclectic style allowing for a mix of new pieces with family heirlooms instead of the “perfectly designed” room.
Entry with vintage favorites on display via book Salvage Studio
Photo of Palm Springs Regency hotel designed by David Jimenez
Mixing eras, styles and colors in a fresh way David Jimenez has come up with a unique and fresh approach by blending old and new. Notice how the vintage brass lamps are working well with the modern mirrored console table and the bright yellow stools introduce a different shape and color to an otherwise neutral palette. The collection of pots on the table is balanced by the stack of books and the small touches of black really ground the grouping.
Designer Summary
My deduction from the above quotes is that these designers see home decor moving away from the more traditionally classic design and entering an era of design with a “twist”. That might mean moving away from more formal structure and expectations (separate living/dining areas that are rarely used) and firmly into the casual, easy living, freely decorated spaces that fit our life style and ever-changing tastes (great rooms). Lighten up your outlook, free up your design expections, infuse your home with spirit and whimsy with small touches like new pillows (not another solid color), art (even if it’s just a framed poster) or wallpaper (or a stenciled design if you’re afraid of the permanence of wallpaper).
Cindy and I would love to hear and see your journey to make your home your own perfect space. If you don’t have a question, don’t feel like you’re out of the loop – we’d love to see your finished spaces and hear your story about how you got there.
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I am in love with grey and am using it, both light and dark, in several rooms. I cant wait to decide on a room or two to use wallpaper in. I’ve seen many patterns lately that I need to use and am delighted that its making a comeback. Not sure about the brass though. I still think of my moms brass collection from the 80′s….I think I’ll stick with the silvers.
I wasn’t a fan of brass when it was popular before, so I’ll be keeping silver as well. Since I rent, no wallpaper for me though I do have a large wall stencil project planned. (it’s easy to paint over when we move) Watch for my stencil project in the next month or so.
Ikat patterns don’t do it for me either, but they are a great way to add a splash of unexpected pattern or bold color. I’m seeing it everywhere and it’s a great example of using an ethnic or global pattern that will readily fit in most design styles. Thanks for continuing to read and comment Franki – we love to hear from you.
Your designer “picks” are really the best on HGTV, etc. (I think.) Great minds….
Not such a fan of Ikat but lots to ponder here. franki