LISA'S BLOG

Tuesday, October 2, 2012

2012 Decorating Trends


Hot Decorating Trends 2012

While the recession is still plodding along, homeowners are seeking elegant results on an economic budget. Fortunately, most of the current interior design trends fit the bill. Mixing and matching and revamping the old are popular trends we will continue to see throughout the year. Below is a list a list of the hottest 2012 decorating trends.

Bold Accent Walls
Don’t shy away from bold, beautiful colors in 2012. This is the year to embrace bold wallpaper prints, and bright, unexpected colors. The hottest colors this year are soft greens and bold turquoise blues that are popular in furnishings, decor items and wall colors. Large-scale patterns inspired by retro styles and antique chintz prints are back and bigger than ever. Flamboyant prints and bold colors are popping up again and even in designer interiors. Papering and repainting accent walls are quick and easy ways to transform the appearance of interior spaces.

Mix and Match
In 2012, the new and the old are being combined in harmonious and surprisingly beautiful ways. Eclectic interiors are exceptionally popular, and they fit well in today’s budget-conscious decorating strategy. Flea market finds and thrift-store furnishings are budget friendly and beautiful. Combining a variety of dissimilar objects and mixing styles are prevailing trends. Today, minimalist interiors are decorated with ornate Rococo furniture, neoclassical statement pieces and ostentatious Baroque objects. Combine modern furnishings with rustic rugs, tribal textiles and one-of-a-kind pieces to create an individual interior.

What’s Old is New
Up-cycling is the past, the present and the future of interior design. This is yet another decorating trend influenced by the growing number of homeowners seeking budget-friendly alternatives to high-fashion trends. Whether it’s retro advertising memorabilia, vintage mid-century décor or antique trinkets, nostalgic items are appearing in upscale interiors across the board. Reupholstering is one interior design trend that is here to stay. Having that outdated couch or pair of armchairs professionally reupholstered is a fun, affordable way to transform a room, and it could be cheaper than purchasing brand new furniture. Homeowners have the option to reupholster existing furniture or recover those flea market finds that are begging for a little tender loving care. Unexpected colors, rich textures and bold prints are appearing on sofas, chairs and large furniture items.

Organic, Rustic, Botanic
Sustainability is in style. Organic textiles and linens are in demand as are home décor items made from sustainable wood products. Salvaged and reclaimed wood furniture and items made from hand-hewn logs are growing in popularity. More and more people are seeking out independent craftspeople and companies that offer customizable options. Botanical items and prints inspired by nature are receiving lots of coverage in esteemed interior design publications. These are all part of the individualized aesthetic that rules decorating trends today.

Maximize Texture
Decorating trends in 2012 are all about texture and contrast. Unfinished wood and sleek stainless steel are being paired with industrial brick surfaces and opulent fabrics. Leather, wool, velvet, sensual silks and ethnic textiles from Africa, Asia, India and the Middle East are integral parts of the bohemian-chic aesthetic that is so desirable today. Crystal chandeliers, mirrors, glass surfaces and carved ornaments are in demand thanks to the current fascination with everything shiny, sparkly and sleek. Pillows, rugs, curtains, coverlets and wall decorations featuring textural materials are ideal for creating an elegant bohemian interior that fits current interior design trends. This is the year to transform dull interior spaces with simple, dramatic changes.