These are the biggest interior design trends of 2020

If we can’t have travel, at least we have our homes.

Malvern House by Fiona Lynch.

If 2020 has taught us anything, it’s to value our living spaces. When the world outside seems chaotic and unpredictable, we find our homes transforming into a place of refuge. And it‘s this increased time inside that’s made clear just how badly our homes are in need of some love and attention.

But no matter whether you’re starting from scratch with a full renovation, or just need a refresh, where does one start? To help you keep your interior choices fresh and modern in the revival process, we’ve rounded up six design trends worth weighing in on. Because no one wants to be late to the party, right?

Bouclé

Remember the bouclé of your childhood? It’s back and actually incredibly stylish. Used by some of the world’s biggest and most respected names in design — think French designers Pierre Paulin and Jean Royère — the humble bouclé is here to serve up textured goodness to every living room. Particularly popular in creamy neutrals in 2020, bouclé’s appeal lies in its throwback-esque form which adds a cosy touch. “Bouclé enhances the form of sculptural armchairs like the Pacha lounge chair by Gubi. It has a wonderful texture that is comforting especially in these Covid times!” interior designer Fiona Lynch tells The Australian.

Warm neutrals

“Warm neutrals are a relief after the black and grey trend we have been in since the 1990s,” Lynch says. Neutrals will always be a staple, it’s in the name. This year, it’s all about warm and natural neutrals like camel, brown and cream. Straight out of the 70s, modernise the palette by injecting pops of greens, blues and even pinks, and ensure your furniture is classily contemporary.

Kew House by Fiona Lynch.

Maximalist wallpaper

While minimalism is really having a moment (ahem, cream bouclé), 2020 has seen a place for the maximalists at heart to finally express themselves. The most popular technique? Wallpaper. Printed, patterned and bold, wallpaper has popped up in some of the design world’s coolest new projects. Add it as a feature in a bathroom or bedroom, or go all out and clad an entire room, your choice!

Curves

“Curves in interiors I believe come from Le Corbusier’s architectural language,” Lynch notes, referencing the French-Swiss architect’s penchant for his famous curved design. Back in a big way for 2020, curve-filled design is worth considering for any big changes. Installing mock archways, incorporating fluid finishings and investing in a rounded sofa are just a few ways to embrace the trend. As Lynch says of using curves in the kitchen, “our team has just taken inspiration from Corbusier’s work in a recent project where we have designed a scoop-shaped curved form for an island bench.”

Cottage-style finishings

‘Cottagecore’ is the word of the season, for good reason. Thanks to COVID-19, the trend that encourages all to get back to nature and enjoying the simple pleasures has boomed over recent months, spawning an influx of cute and cozy inspirations. From natural fibres like linen and wool, to rustic timber accents and found objects, embrace the cottagecore aesthetic by stripping back your modern finishes for a more ‘worn’ look. Embrace vintage and antique furnishings to make the look complete.

St. Kilda house by Fiona Lynch.

Marble

Blocks and plinths of marble have boomed in 2020, adding a certain luxurious texture to a space. “Visiting a stone mason brings an understanding of the skill and workmanship of our local stonemasons. Marble has long been a feature in many of our projects and I enjoy how we can bring out our clients personality through the selection of marble for their project,” Lynch tells us. Use marble everywhere, from the kitchen and bathroom, to subtle touches via drink coasters, plant stands or even statement coffee tables.