Trend alert: contemporary spin on classic design favourites
Curves, arches and new looks for old favourites will dominate interior trends this season, according to forecasters.
“Relaxation is always high on the agenda, but with most of us spending more time at home than ever, we’re looking to create spaces where we feel safe and cocooned too,” says Heather Nette King, interior stylist and Carpet Court style ambassador.
“The classic looks re-emerging this season feel timeless and reassuring. But make no mistake, there’s nothing old-fashioned about them―contemporary touches and careful editing give them a thoroughly modern appeal.”
Two designs to look out for are Modern Mono and Euro Retro. Modern Mono is a contemporary take on the classic monochromatic look.
“With its clean, graphic lines and simple palette of black, white and touches of grey, it has a timeless and sophisticated feel. But rather than the angular lines and harsh contrasts we usually associate with this aesthetic, today’s version is soft and refined, with rounded lines, textural, natural touches and plenty of breathing space,” says Nette King.
Attention to detail is everything with this look, she says. “Fabrics are tactile and beautiful, and small details such as exposed seams and contrast stitching pack a powerful punch. Floorboards are richly hued, but instead of being laid in straight lines they are given a luxurious feel via intricate herringbone and chevron patterns.
“The Modern Mono look works equally well in older and contemporary homes. You don’t need soaring ceilings or period features to pull it off―it’s all about palette and material choices.”
If you love colour and all things glam, the Euro Retro trend is guaranteed to set your pulse racing. Rich, jewel tones feel decadent and exciting―and make for an irresistible combination when paired with retro-inspired furniture and luxurious fabrics, says Nette King.
“The Euro Retro look stems from our ongoing love affair with art deco and mid-century styling. It features many of the hallmarks of designs from these periods, including furniture with exaggerated curves, statement lighting, terrazzo flooring and touches of bling. But it’s brought up-to-date with minimalist detailing and a careful approach to colour.
“While it’s a natural choice for heritage homes, this look translates well to contemporary abodes too. Use it to up the luxe factor in cosy spots such as a bedroom or study, or to add drama to a dining room. The key to success with this look is not to over-do it with the colours. Limit your primary palette to three or four hues.”
Heather Nette King’s style tips:
MAKE FLOORING THE HERO: Draw the eye to a striking herringbone, chevron or terrazzo-look floor by keeping the rest of the scheme simple.
CONSIDER INNOVATIVE HYBRID FLOORING: Like the look of terrazzo, stone or concrete, but want something easy to install and cost-effective? Hybrid flooring combines the best attributes of laminate and vinyl and gives you the look of luxe natural materials for less.
USE FLOORING TO CREATE ZONES IN AN OPEN-PLAN ROOM: Use carpet or a rug in relaxing spots, such as the living area, and hardworking timber or hybrid tiles in busier ones such as the kitchen and dining area.
GO PLUSH FOR CHILL-OUT OR SLEEP ZONES: Carpet feels soft, warm and luxurious underfoot, making it a great option for bedrooms and living rooms.
REALISE THE FULL POTENTIAL: An undressed window is like an outfit without shoes―it completes and consolidates a room. Ensure that the treatments―be it a complimentary or contrasting colour―have the same warm or cool undertones as the carpet, paint or other decorative elements for a cohesive look.
Images: Carpet Court