2023 was a strong year for interiors with folk florals, Barbiecore and coastal all dominating designs.

The trends this past year screamed optimism and embracing joy in our homes, and while that’s set to continue into 2024 (say hello to Tropical and Kitsch), there will also be a move towards the creation of more unique and individual design.

“Interior design trends for 2024 will branch out from the past few years bringing a freshness in the form of self-expression,” explains Margaret Larson from Sustainable Furniture.

“Highly personalised and individual spaces will dominate the interior world utilising a ‘go with the flow’ approach to stray away from the commonly noted interior design ‘rules’.”

As we move past a tough couple of years, Larson predicts homeowners and renters will be looking to express themselves freely with their home decor choices by waving goodbye to the ultra modern and minimalist interiors that can sometimes feel restrictive.

“This freedom will encourage the rise of mix-matched shades and layering combined with soft lines and curves,” she adds.

“At the core of all of this, sustainability will take a huge standpoint. With rising attention being shone on climate change, homeowners are looking to take a hands-on approach by opting for eco-conscious design choices as well as second-hand decor and furniture that holds value and tells a story.”

With that in mind, here’s a look at some of the trends we’ll be trying in our homes in 2024.

Western Gothic

Rustic chic is making a comeback in 2024, this time with a dark cowboy edge. Western bedding ideas are up 310% on Pinterest, as well as Vintage Americana seeing a 145% spike.

“Look to introduce plenty of texture, classic boho patterns and metallics,” suggests Anne Haimes, design director and founder of Anne Haimes Interiors.

“Matte black should be a staple in this style’s colour palette, so don’t shy away from incorporating somewhat gothic-inspired pieces.”

Kitschy kitchens

Eccentric and retro kitchens have arguably never fallen out of style, but they’ll be an even bigger trend next year, with Pinterest reporting searches increasing 160%.

One popular way to approach the kitschy kitchen trend is to lean into vintage. “The ever-popular 1950s-inspired Smeg fridges, for example, make an excellent addition with their retro designs and candy colours,” Haimes advises.

Alternatively, Haimes suggests looking to classic patterns such as gingham or floral prints. “Pink and green will continue to be popular colour palettes in kitchens next year,” she adds.

“Remember, it’s important to balance the boldness of kitschy kitchens by incorporating natural materials. Diversifying your textures will not only create a more homely and welcoming space but will also prevent your kitchen from looking cheap.”

Cafécore

Next year, coffee lovers will take their love of the brown stuff to the next level with a dedicated and decorated coffee space at home.

Interest in coffee bar styling has seen a whopping 1,125% increase according to Pinterest. “Think beautifully decorated open shelving, a barista-level coffee machine and, of course, plenty of greenery to add cosiness,” Haimes says.

“Make use of trays to make your space neat and avoid leaving out any branded packaging. Instead, use decorative refillable containers to match the aesthetic.”

A trip to the Tropics

Seeking refuge from the chilly weather by creating a sunny oasis at home will be a top trend for 2024, with tropical chic décor up 110%.

“This coastal take on bohemia will be sure to bring some joy into your home,” explains Haimes.

“Think natural woven materials like wicker, coral-inspired shapes and vibrant colours. Ocean blues, vibrant pinks and even pops of orange will be the foundation of this style.”

Haimes predicts this will be a popular interiors trend next year, thanks to it being easy to incorporate into existing styles with minimal effort.

“Just a few simple décor switches such as adding bursts of colour or even introducing tropical bouquets will quickly bring the style’s sunny feeling to interiors,” she adds.

Jellyfish-Inspired décor

The widely popular mushroom lamp was one of 2023’s biggest interior trends. But next year, jellyfish-like shapes will be making waves.

“Tying in perfectly to the tropical-chic trend, this style embraces the whimsy of these aquatic creatures,” Haimes says. “Organic shapes and iridescent tones will be a big factor for jellyfish-inspired décor.”

Rustic chic

When we think of rustic interiors, it can be easy to fall into the trap of leaning too hard into farmhouse or shabby-chic styles. But 2024’s rustic-inspired trend will be far more sophisticated. Think natural materials and organic shapes, as opposed to furniture pieces that have been too lived in.

“Texture is going to be a big trend next year, so look to introduce visual interest by layering natural materials with muted colours,” Haimes suggests. “Natural woven textures and even weathered wood with offer an earthy approach to rustic chic.”

Contrasting curves

The curvature trend isn’t going anywhere any time soon. “With organic shapes set to be a big trend for the next year, embrace imperfect curves and rounded edges for a modern take on curved furniture and design features,” Haimes explains.

“Curved sofas and rugs will still be big, as will curved alcoves and archways, while abstract mirrors and rounded décor pieces will continue to dominate home furnishings, particularly in abstract, organic shapes.“

One defining feature of this trend will be contrasting curvature with sharp edges and structural architectural elements.

“This juxtaposition will help balance the fluidity of rounded features and make interiors more cohesive and visually appealing,” Haimes adds.

Red tones

We’re saying goodbye to cool blues next year in favour of warm and inviting reds.

“Warmer colour palettes featuring shades of red will gain in popularity,” says Haimes. “However, be sure to choose red tones that are muted with brown, clay or grey undertones to make them more sophisticated and easier to incorporate throughout the home.”

Haimes suggests playing with the intensity and tonality of red shades to see what mood works best in your space.

“Layer reds with complementary earthy tones, such as creams, beiges and browns. Just be sure to introduce greenery to help liven up your space and avoid it looking too flat,” she adds.

Walls and ceilings as artwork

In 2024, fun is the name of the game in British homes, and no space is too small to be a canvas for creativity and excitement.

“The trend for wallpaper has been gathering pace for some time now as we cast off the minimalist grey years, but I see two big ideas for next year,” interior expert, journalist and podcaster, Kate Watson-Smyth, who has been working with TaskRabbit, says.

“The first is the mural wallpaper. This is a series of panels that create a large picture rather than a repeated pattern. It doesn’t have to be in large rooms – it can work brilliantly behind a bed for example.”

The second creative trend Watson-Smyth predicts is wallpapering the ceiling.

“Feature walls have a bad rap but the ceiling is actually the fifth wall and it works brilliantly when it is papered,” she explains.

“This draws the eye up and can distract from a small room. It’s also a good way to add pattern and colour in a way that’s not overwhelming. Just make sure you choose an abstract print or flowers with no specific direction as nobody wants to see upside down birds flying across the ceiling.”

Unconventional colour combinations

Forget classic colour pairings, next year is all about mixing up the palette. “For 2024, I think unusual colour combinations will become more commonplace as people strive to create unique homes,” explains interior designer Matthew Williamson.

“Colour-drenched walls can be the single most effective and affordable way to transform and elevate a space. If finding colours that work well together from scratch feels like a struggle, take pictures on your phone of colour combinations you see and think work well together while out and about. I snap palettes and patterns that catch my eye almost every day!”

Making way for more characterful tones, Williamson predicts we will see less neutrals such as white, beige and grey being used, which can sometimes feel flat and perhaps a little bland.

“Pink, tan, clay, terracotta, peach and stone are just some of the shades which we’ll see more of. They instantly warm up and modernise a space, whether used individually or combined in one scheme,” he adds.

Maximalism meets nature

As the trend for creating personal and unique interiors evolves, in 2024 interior designer Naomi Astley Clarke predicts a shift towards maximalism-meets-nature.

“People want to express themselves, have fun with it and not take life too seriously, but also keep materials and finishes sleek and natural,” she explains.

“Think of oak floors paired with a wild Pierre Frey patterned curtain and marmorino walls. Large indoor plants, such as olive and fig trees, will rule 2024, alongside healing crystals. These natural elements will be used in an impactful way, creating stylish design statements.”

Biophilic design

The word ‘biophilia’ derives from the Greek words for ‘life’ and ‘love or affection’. Biophilic design principles are rooted in the outdoors and address the human instinct to connect with nature.

“Biophilic design combines the liberal use of houseplants with natural colours, soft shapes, and organic materials,” explains interior designer and winner of this year’s Big Interiors Battle Tara Rodrigues of Tara Rodrigues Interiors.

“Inspired by the beauty and benefits of the natural world, biophilic design brings us closer to nature both in terms of lifestyle and surroundings. Psychologists have found that biophilic design has a positive impact on our physical and mental wellbeing, boosting energy levels, proactivity, and positivity.”

Rodrigues predicts an increase in the use of moss walls, and real, preserved and artificial plants in our homes in 2024.

“Hopefully this won’t be a trend that dwindles over time but becomes fully integrated into the way we do interiors for years to come,” she adds.

To embrace the biophilic trend, she suggests bringing in houseplants and artificial plants, and using natural materials and shapes.

Block printed fabrics

Using the traditional block-printing technique to create intricate designs, block-printed fabrics are predicted to feature on many soft furnishings in 2024.

When incorporating into your home, Graham and Green owners Jamie and Lou Graham suggest opting for patterns and colours that complement your furniture and decor to create a well-rounded, harmonious look.

“And don’t be afraid to mix different patterns together to create depth throughout your home,” they add.

Aluminium accents

We’ve had years of metallics being dominated by gold and brass but aluminium is set to make a comeback next year.

“Juxtaposing the warm and natural atmosphere of Western Gothic is the rise in aluminium interiors,” says Haimes.

“This style sees influences from 1950s retrofuturism, with abstract metal furniture pieces characterised by unexpected lines,” she continues. “Lovers of architectural and structural interior design may be drawn to this trend.”