The start of January for me always brings a heightened sense of excitement, inspiration, and motivation to tackle the ideas and concepts I mulled over throughout the previous year. And of course, the best parts of a new year in design land are the hot and noteworthy design trends and forecasts. Think you're ready to embrace some of the biggest looks of the year? Read on for a glimpse into what you can expect to see for 2013.
ENTER FROM THE EAST
Global influences always seem to be at the top of the list of design trends to watch each year, and this one is no exception: Egypt, Africa, and India are definitely taking center stage. Everything from Moroccan tiles, woven baskets and medallions, carved wooden stools and end tables, wicker wrapped side chairs, beaded vases in lush jewel tones, mirrored accent pieces, and brightly coloured wall hangings are being mixed with softer and more common household decor for a worldly and exotic twist.
BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY
A take on relaxed-traditional living, classic furniture pieces are being upholstered in a huge mix of decadent patterns and textures, pairing stripes, latticework, tufted velvet, Mongolian bursts, woven kilims, and mohair with more traditional elements in a space will transform your room with Bohemian character and whimsy.
SCANDINAVIAN
Maybe Ikea has better timing than we're aware of, but opening their latest storefront in Winnipeg plays right into one of this year's top design trends. For those looking more for serenity, organization, solidarity, and minimalism — Scandi-style is just for you: clean and uninterrupted lines, sleek wood furniture, minimal accessories, heavily texturized fabrics and floor mats, contrasts of light and dark paint finishes, and a healthy mix of organic and nature-inspired materials sounds simply divine.
ON THE BRIGHT SIDE
Washed out taupes and muddy browns take note — colour is back, and it's bold! Don't be surprised to see hot reds, royal blues, emerald greens, citrus yellows, pinky pinks, and plumy purples dressing special rooms and feature walls in homes across the country. Bye bye Mushroom Cap, Rocky Road, and Toasted Pecan; the design community and its followers are embracing everything bright and everything daring this year — and it's about time.
UPCYCLE RECYCLE
Taking what you already own and repurposing it for a new place and space is exactly what upcycling is all about. Consumers are looking to items and valuable pieces already existing in their collections, and finding ways to transform and infuse new life into them this year. Light fixtures, occasional pieces, bed frames, artwork, glass pieces, wooden pallets, and bed linens, blankets, and sweaters are all becoming 'new' again in different forms and functions. Embrace the trend and save some pennies.
STANDOUT STYLE
Adding a few knock-out pieces to your spaces will take you into the final trend of 2013 — quiet luxury and tailored living are quickly becoming the go-to aesthetics for those with a more discerning taste and impeccable style. Fine furnishings, quality pieces, bits of glam and flash, luxurious stone, sultry and rich materials and fabrics, exotic wood grains, and graphic statement artwork all meld this trend into one of understated opulence and boutique-type living.
Republished from the Brandon Sun print edition January 12, 2013
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