5 Trending Home Decor Styles of 2023

November 1, 2023November 1, 2023 WHF 23 Views 0 Comments

As we enter 2023, it’s exciting to see how the world of home decor continues to evolve. Societal changes have a significant impact on home decor trends, reflecting our shifting values, lifestyles, and aesthetic preferences. This year, we are seeing a blend of comfort, sustainability, and nostalgia dominating the scene.

The influence of the pandemic, increased environmental awareness, and the desire for comfort and simplicity have dramatically shaped the way we design our homes. As a result, five trending styles have emerged that encapsulate these changes: Biophilic Design, Minimalism, Retro Revival, Hygge Home, and Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Designs.

In this article, we will dig deeper into each of these five trending home decor styles of 2023, offering insights and tips on how you can incorporate them into your own home.

The Rise of Biophilic Design

Biophilic design, as explained by renowned author Stephen Kellert in his work The Practice of Biophilic Design, is a trend in interior design that emphasizes the innate connection between humans and nature.

The term ‘biophilia’ means ‘love of nature’, and this design concept focuses on creating spaces that allow us to feel closer to nature even while indoors. It’s not merely about adding plants to your space, but about incorporating natural elements and patterns into the design of buildings and interiors. Studies have shown that biophilic design can reduce stress, improve cognitive function, and enhance mood and creativity.

This design style is characterized by several key elements:

Environmental Features: Incorporating direct, tangible elements of nature into our built environment. This could mean including plants, water bodies, or even using natural light in a room.
Natural Shapes and Forms: Using designs and patterns that echo nature. This could be botanical motifs in fabrics or furniture designs that are not geometric but more organic and irregular.
Natural Patterns and Processes: Recognizing that nature is dynamic and changes over time. This might include using materials that show wear naturally or having elements like a walled garden that changes with the seasons.
Light and Space: Using light and space in a way that mimics how it is in nature. This could involve maximizing the use of natural light or creating a sense of spaciousness.

Incorporating biophilic design into your home can be straightforward and rewarding. Here are some suggestions:

Houseplants: Adding plants to your home is one of the simplest ways to bring nature indoors. They not only improve air quality but also add a touch of vibrancy and life to your space.
Natural Materials: Use natural materials like wood, stone, or wool in your furniture, flooring, or decor items. These materials bring warmth and authenticity to your space.
Maximize Natural Light: Allow as much natural light into your home as possible. You can use curtains or blinds that let in light while still providing privacy.
Nature-Inspired Artwork or Decor: Use artwork, photography, or decor items that depict nature scenes. These elements can bring the serenity and beauty of nature into your home.

Minimalism: Less is More

Minimalist design, as the name suggests, is a design philosophy that emphasizes simplicity and functionality. It’s a reaction against excess, focusing instead on the essentials. As outlined in an article on Creative Market, minimalism was initially a rejection of the highly subjective designs and works of abstract expressionism. By simplifying a product, painting, or subject down to its most fundamental features, the minimalist design seeks to eliminate any unnecessary elements and prioritize content over form.

The roots of minimalism can be traced back to various art and design movements, but it’s perhaps most notably associated with the post-WWII Western art movement. Minimalistic design isn’t about making things look sparse or cold, but about using the barest elements to create maximum effect.

According to Nielsen Norman Group, many popular web-design trends originate in minimalism, a movement that aims to reduce information overload by presenting content in its simplest form. The idea is to strip away as many superfluous elements as possible, leaving only what is necessary for functionality and impact.

Tips for Achieving a Minimalist Aesthetic in Your Home

Declutter: The first step towards a minimalist aesthetic is decluttering. Remove unnecessary items and keep only what you need or love.
Choose a Neutral Palette: In minimalist design, a neutral palette is key. Choose shades of white, grey, beige, or black for your walls, furniture, and decor.
Quality Over Quantity: Instead of filling your space with lots of items, choose a few high-quality pieces that serve a purpose and add aesthetic value.
Functionality First: Every item in a minimalist home should have a function. Avoid unnecessary decorations and focus on functional items.
Use of Space and Light: Minimalist design makes good use of space and natural light. Keep your spaces open and uncluttered, and let in as much natural light as possible.
Simple Lines and Shapes: Choose furniture and decor with simple lines and shapes. Avoid intricate designs or patterns.
Minimal Decor: When it comes to decor, less is more. Choose a few key pieces that add character without cluttering your space.

Retro Revival: The Return of Vintage Styles

The retro decor trend is a nod to the past, bringing back styles from various eras and blending them with modern aesthetics. It’s not about replicating an old-fashioned look in its entirety, but rather incorporating elements of bygone designs into contemporary interiors. As noted in an article on Southern Living, features of the retro decor trend include Art Deco furniture, retro appliances, ’70s hues, and vintage furniture.

Features of the retro decor trend:

Art Deco Furniture: This style, popular in the 1920s and 1930s, is characterized by rich colors, bold geometric shapes, and lavish ornamentation.
Rattan, Wicker, and Bamboo: Natural materials are making a comeback, adding a touch of rustic charm to modern spaces.
Retro Appliances: Think Smeg refrigerators or retro-style ovens, which add a pop of color and nostalgia to contemporary kitchens.
’70s Hues: Colors like mustard yellow, avocado green, and burnt orange are once again finding favor in home interiors.
Vintage Furniture: Whether it’s a mid-century modern piece or a Victorian-era antique, vintage furniture adds character and depth to any space.

But how can one successfully blend these vintage elements with modern interiors? Dani Dazey, a decorating expert quoted in The Spruce, suggests that striking the right balance is key.

Ways to blend vintage elements with modern Interiors:

Mix and Match: Don’t be afraid to mix different styles. Pair your vintage furniture with modern pieces for a balanced look.
Accent Pieces: Use vintage items as accent pieces in a contemporary setting. A retro lamp or an antique rug can add a unique touch to your space.
Color Coordination: If you’re using ’70s hues, make sure they complement the rest of your color scheme.
Highlight History: If you have a piece with a story, let it shine. Place it in a prominent spot and let it be a conversation starter.
Comfort is Key: No matter how stylish, every item in your home should contribute to a comfortable and inviting atmosphere.

Cozy Comfort: The Hygge Home

The Danish concept of Hygge (pronounced “hoo-ga”) is more than a design trend; it’s a lifestyle that embodies comfort, contentment, and well-being through simple, everyday experiences. As explained by Meik Wiking in his book The Little Book of Hygge: Danish Secrets to Happy Living, hygge is about creating a warm atmosphere, enjoying the good things in life with good people, and recognizing the moments of happiness that often pass us by. It’s about appreciating the simple things and creating a sense of coziness and warmth in our lives and homes.

In essence, hygge is about creating an atmosphere that allows us to appreciate the simple pleasures in life. It’s about taking time away from the daily rush to relax and enjoy life’s simple pleasures, either alone or with loved ones.

According to an article by Everyday Health, the concept of hygiene is also tied to a feeling of safety, equality, and personal wholeness. It’s a form of everyday togetherness that can have a positive impact on our well-being.

Steps to Create a Cozy, Comfortable Living Space

Creating a hygge home is all about simplicity, comfort, and warmth. Here are some steps you can take to bring this Danish concept to life in your own living space:

Soft Lighting: Use candlelight, fairy lights, or lamps with warm bulbs to create a soft, cozy glow.
Natural Elements: Incorporate elements like wood, stone, and plants to bring a sense of nature indoors.
Comfortable Textiles: Use soft blankets, plush pillows, and cozy rugs to create a sense of comfort and warmth.
Simple Decor: Keep your decor simple and meaningful. Choose items that bring you joy and create a sense of peace.
Create Cozy Corners: Designate spaces in your home for relaxation and reflection, such as a reading nook or a cozy corner with a comfortable chair.

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Designs

In 2023, the importance of sustainable decor cannot be understated. As Sarah Barnard of Sarah Barnard Design highlights, we interact intimately with our homes daily, making it all the more crucial that our decor choices are sustainable and eco-friendly. The push towards sustainability in home decor is not just about being environmentally conscious; it’s also about creating a healthier and more comfortable living environment for ourselves.

One of the biggest eco trends impacting design in 2023 is the use of sustainable materials, as observed by Authentic Jobs. This encompasses a wide range of options, from recycled plastics to biodegradable materials, and seeks to reduce our carbon footprint while still allowing us to enjoy stylish and functional home decor.

The move towards sustainability in interior design is a response to global issues like climate change, air pollution, and excessive waste, positioning sustainable design as a key strategy in mitigating these challenges.

Ideas for Incorporating Eco-Friendly Elements into Home Decor

Embracing sustainable decor does not mean compromising on style or comfort. Here are some ideas on how to incorporate eco-friendly elements into your home decor:

Biophilic Design: According to UGREEN.io, biophilic design has become a staple in sustainable architecture for 2023. This involves integrating natural elements, such as plants, into your decor to promote a connection with nature.
Recycled Materials: Use decor made from recycled materials. This could be anything from recycled plastic furniture to artwork made from reclaimed wood.
Non-Toxic Finishes: As noted by Hindustan Times, opt for furniture and decor with natural and non-toxic finishes to promote a healthier home environment.
Energy Efficiency: Choose energy-efficient lighting and appliances to reduce your energy consumption.
Renewable Materials: Use decor made from renewable materials like bamboo or rattan, which are more sustainable than conventional materials.

Choosing the Right Decor Style for Your Home

Choosing the right decor style for your home is a highly personal endeavor that hinges on your tastes, lifestyle, and values. Whether you’re gravitating towards the nostalgic appeal of the ’70s Retro Revival, yearning for the simplicity and comfort of the Hygge home, or aiming to make an environmentally conscious statement with Sustainable and Eco-Friendly designs, there’s a trend to suit everyone in 2023.

The key is to find a balance that resonates with your personality while ensuring a comfortable and inviting atmosphere at home. So, go ahead, experiment with these trends, and let your home decor tell your story!