five interior design trends for 2023

Jan 29

Okay okay, I’ll admit I’m a little late to the party getting this blog post out and it’s almost February already, but that’s still eleven months left to jump on the bandwagon for these super fun trends for 2023.

Read on to get the scoop on what’s hot in interior design this year…

pantone colour of the year: viva magenta

As always, the design world will turn to Pantone for colour inspiration, and this year is no different. Viva Magenta packs a punch, but is not for the faint hearted.

Personally, I feel that something so vivid is not universally received in Australia as we tend to lean towards more neutral colour schemes. In interior design, the best way to incorporate intense colours like this, is to bring it in via non-permanent finishes. Look to soft furnishings/decor such as artwork, accent chairs, flowers, glassware and bed linen; and a lick of paint to the front door or a feature wall can easily be updated in the future.

magenta’s big sister

Another increasingly popular option is to go for a darker, sexier version….Merlot.

A more grown up alternative to magenta, merlot tones bring richness and luxury without being overpowering in presence.

My favourite way to incorporate this into a home is by using Viola marble, either for benchtops or accent furniture. Pair with antique brass, light oaks and clean whites to neutralise the intensity of this high contrast marble, and create a soothing colour palette for your home.

retro luxe

I’ve been waiting my whole life for this, it’s time to start paying homage to the 60’s and 70’s. With a luxurious twist of course!

Now this is not an easy one to nail but would be well worth the time if you love a bit of mid-century vibes in your home. My best advice is to look for stones with loud patterns (we love a bit of Patagonia Quartzite btw), then add antique bronze/brass tapware and tie it all together with the old retro fave, walnut timber. Side note: gentle curves work very well with this style!

palm springs (modified)

Full disclosure, this is not a new one, and has definitely been carried forward from 2021/2022. But this is a trend that’s still continuing to thrive and will do so for a little while longer.

My first point to make is that the ‘Palm Springs’ style we’re seeing in Australia is a heavily modified version, and most of the homes taking on this trend are not what you’d see in the real Palm Springs in California. We’ve taken some elements from this iconic part of the world and wrapped them up together with coastal and Queenslander styles, creating an Australian hybrid model so to speak.

*Image: ABI Interiors / Project Palmera*

Externally you’ll see a lot of vertical battening, breeze blocks, and hardy succulents in the landscaping. Internally you’ll find fluted wall panelling and fresh whites, paired with natural elements such as travertine and muted timbers. Structurally you can expect to see raked roof lines, and lots of arches and curves.

organic luxe

One of the biggest and best movements we’re seeing in the new year is the heavy use of organic elements. This is best paired with minimalism, to let the natural textures and colours speak for themselves. I’m not sure exactly where this trend came from, but I do find it to be heavily influenced by Mediterranean design.

This cozy yet elegant style can be achieved by using lots of microcement (I recommend Mineral Fox), natural stones such as travertine and limestone, textured tiles such as zellige or other handmade tiles, and rustic looking timbers.

need a helping hand?

If you’re keen to get one of these trending styles into your home, contact us to book in for a mini design session. This service is perfect for anyone needing design assistance or a general consultation without the commitment.

Janelle Mead