6 Interior Design Trends to Keep an Eye Out For in 2022

If the New Year has pushed you to consider a makeover, seek new beginnings, and start afresh, let’s put revamping your home on the cards too, shall we? There’s no better time to refurbish—and perhaps, declutter—your space, than now. As we step into 2022, our third consecutive year amid a global pandemic, interior décor trends continue to focus on making us feel more centred and emotionally at ease. 

Warmth, comfort, cleanliness, and airiness are dominating our wishlist, with our senses being impetuously drawn to elements that are tasteful and aesthetically pleasing. Below, Aditi Agarwal, Co-Founder of Nestasia, a homegrown home décor label, elucidates on the interior trends you’re likely to see everywhere this year. 

 

Subtle, Earthy Tones with Bold Patterns

 

Soft, earthy tones with bold patterns are expected to make it big this year. Gone are the days pattern-on-pattern wasn’t on-trend; the year 2022 will be reminiscent of the 60s and 70s, where striking, edgy accents are welcome. "After being surrounded with all-white walls, people are craving spaces that hold their own and exude a strong personality. If out-there patterns are not your thing, add a subtle pop of colour with throw pillows or a sofa to bounce off a creamy-hued wall," says Aditi. 

"A rich, regal green would be the perfect pick—think a Tabitha print rug paired with a pale green throw. Many paint companies have named shades of sage green as the colour of the year. My personal favourite is Sherwin Williams’ Evergreen Fog. Earthy greens are perfect for pairing with other nature-inspired hues such as sky blue, warm brown and soft grey," she adds. 

 

 

Curved, Sculptural Décor 

 

Curved décor accents are all set to have a moment in the spotlight. As we continue to move away from straight-lined minimalism and towards cosier environments, our home décor is becoming softer and more sculptural. Contemporary art pieces such as doughnut vases and mirrors are the perfect way to incorporate this new trend into your space. 

 

 

Vintage Chic

 

There’s a fine line between vintage chic and dated—and that’s the line we’re looking to be on this year. According to Aditi, the easiest hack to keep the place looking timeless is by mixing and matching existing modern pieces with family heirlooms and antiques. "The days of a large accent painting are long gone as well; this year, layering up with tiny, stand-out pieces is in vogue. For instance, décor pieces enclosed within an antique photo frame is the perfect side table accessory. This extends to tablescapes as well. While floral prints on a white backdrop are as traditional as it gets, the shape of the plate and pattern of the flower can be updated to add that touch of modernity your dinner set desperately needs. To take things up a notch, you could set up a traditional table and pair it with a rustic dining set," she says. 

 

 

Picture Frame Moulding

 

The picture frame moulding trend has made its way back into 2022, and we can’t complain. Picture frame moulding—which refers to the kind of shape that the profile of a picture frame has—adds an elegant, distinct design flair to any space while creating a focal point. "This year, consider adding a touch of modernity to the mouldings by inviting a splash of colour in each frame. You can even add texture to the wall by hanging small antique-looking frames. Picture frame moulding pairs well with sculptural décor pieces and are contemporary at heart," Aditi explains. 

 

 

Biophilic Design

 

After being cooped up at home for two long years, people are focused on re-establishing their relationship with the natural world through biophilic design principles. This essentially means that relaxing spaces will be emphasised with natural lighting and ventilation, as well as the inclusion of greenery and a visual connection with nature. "There’s an easy way of achieving this if the space you live in doesn’t have big French windows. Just add a few sets of planters or fresh flowers in trendy vases. If you want a biophilic design but don’t have the time to cater to plants, invest in faux plants and flowers that look close to real," she recommends. 

 

 

The Future of Sustainability

 

With the green movement picking heat, interior designers are trying to explore the finest materials that ensure the long-term health of our environment. "This could mean repurposing old furniture, shopping locally, or buying responsibly-sourced items. It also involves using natural raw materials for home décor. For instance, a bowl of potpourri will last longer than most air fresheners, while being completely natural. Pampas grass is another sustainable choice," Aditi puts forth.