THE A-Z GUIDE TO HOME T RENDS

Scouting for a refresh? We’ve rounded up the hottest interior fads of the coming year

A IS FOR ART

It doesn’t have to be a painting – a poster, an old map or beautiful object can be art. Devote time to getting the framing right. When hanging, look for packs of matching frames in varying sizes to give your collection a cohesive look.

B IS FOR BLACK TAPS

Can’t decide between chrome or brass hardware? Go for matte black instead. Edgy and elegant, it’s an easy way to make fittings the standout feature in a bathroom or kitchen.

C IS FOR CURATION

Display candles, cards and trinkets in clusters, with artfully clashing colours and varying heights.

D IS FOR DENIM

One of fashion’s most enduring textiles, try a splash of grey-blue paint in a living room, or go for denim-toned upholstery for a utilitarian edge.

E IS FOR ENGLISH COUNTRY HOUSE

Granny chic is back – think chintz and “brown” furniture. “This look is about making a home feel balanced – mixing old things with new ones,” says designer Nicole Salvesen.

F IS FOR FOOTSTOOLS

If your sofa is looking tired, distract from it with a zingy footstool. Oversized styles can double up as a coffee table.

G IS FOR GREEN

Bring the outside in with a touch of this versatile colour in your interiors – from botanic-inspired prints to emerald-toned furniture, there’s a green for all tastes.

H IS FOR HEADBOARDS

Martin Waller, founder of homeware brand Andrew Martin, calls headboards “alternative forms of artwork”, and he’s not wrong. Try a dramatic shape or bold print.

I IS FOR INCENSE

If you’re over scented candles, try the hippie alternative – incense. Avoid student-dorm connotations by choosing chic, modern fragrances.

J IS FOR JAPANDI

The new buzz word to casually drop celebrates the shared aesthetic values of Japanese and Scandi design.

K IS FOR KILIM

Those in the know are now investing in the kilim rug. It’s colourful and flat-woven to boot, so it won’t bobble.

L IS FOR LINEN

Kinder to the planet than cotton, linen is more than a one-season wonder. Its crinkly finish makes for beautiful bedding and tablecloths that don’t need ironing.

M IS FOR MAXIMALISM

“Try to inject fun by playing with your decor, and be brave. The key to maximalism is layering textures, patterns and colours for a look that’s considered and eclectic,” says Lucy Barlow, founder of design studio Barlow & Barlow.

N IS FOR NUDES

The female form has been appearing on everything from tableware to cushions.

O IS FOR OTTOMAN

Not just another seat, ottomans are popping up in on-trend living rooms in place of a coffee table.

P IS FOR PASSEMENTERIE

Transform plain cushions or create tie-backs with busy trims and fringes in clashing colours.

Q IS FOR QUILTING

Traditional skills, such as quilting, are becoming popular again as a younger demographic turn to crafting as a mindfulness exercise.

R IS FOR RATTAN FURNITURE

Nostalgic and comfortable, rattan continues to be one of the most coveted furniture styles and looks as good indoors as it does on a patio.

S IS FOR SEASHELLS

In terms of motifs, if cactus was the new pineapple, then the shell is the new cactus.

T IS FOR TROLLEYS

It’s a good sign if your bar cart is stacked with booze, but a trolley is not just for parties. It’s a handy mobile piece that can double up as a side table or storage.

U IS FOR UNIQUE

Put your own spin on home decor by painting or gilding an old chair or chest. Or personalise your kitchen with doors in custom colourways.

V IS FOR VITRINES

Continuing on the theme of curation (blame the #shelfie trend), glass display cabinets are ideal for showing off books and breakables.

W IS FOR BATHROOM WALLPAPER

The most Instagrammed bathrooms right now share one theme: walls laden with riotous patterns. So long as ventilation is good, most wallpapers can withstand the conditions.

X IS FOR XXL

Anything supersized is guaranteed to make a statement. Consider a bold artwork or generous-sized sofa setting if your space allows.

Y IS FOR YELLOW ACCENTS

There’s something undeniably cheery about this sunshine hue. Dip your toe in with canary-coloured tableware or a lamp to brighten up a dark corner.

Z IS FOR ZEN BATHROOMS

Turn your bathroom from functional to truly relaxing by imitating a chilled spa-like sanctuary, with the aid of muted colours, soft lighting and plenty of plants.