Design Inspiration: Year of the Woman

In January’s newsletter, I predicted that 2018 will the “Year of the Woman” not only socially and politically, but in the design world as well.

While the last several years have been dominated by masculine design trends, cool colors, bold lines and geometric patterns, I’m anticipating a return to more organic shapes, warmer, saturated colors and bold, sensuous curves in furniture and architecture.

Below are a few of my favorite new design trends to keep an eye out for in the Year of the Woman.

Warm Grays

For the past 5+ years, the color trend has veered toward cool, dark grays. But this year, we’re expecting to see warmer, softer grays with tan or brown undertones. It’s the perfect way to soften up any space, and it looks at home in a farmhouse kitchen or an ultra-urban bachelor pad.

Image via Jennifer Schoenberger Design

Pattern Mixing

Mixing patterns has definitely been growing as a trend in the past few years, but we expect it to really explode into the mainstream moving forward. Whereas previously, minimalist designs and patterns were celebrated, we’re seeing a reversal with some embracing and accepting the brightly colored “maximalist” lifestyle.

Image via Design*Sponge

Organic Designs

Natural, lush, organic patterns and designs are now being favored over rigid, tightly geometric lines and patterns. Think circles, abstract shapes, raw edges and uncommon architecture, like this fun and funky freeform table in our clients’ family room.

Image via Sweet Peas Design

Saturated Colors

Since Pantone’s Color of the Year is a bold, over-saturated Ultra Violet, I think it’s safe to assume we’ll be seeing a lot more lush jewel tones coming up.

Image via HGTV

Bold Curves

We’re anticipating a departure from the rigid utilitarian lines and a movement toward more organic, curvaceous furniture and architecture, like this delightfully curvy console table from our Lake Forest Showhouse project.

Image via Sweet Peas Design