STEPPING AHEAD

The Editor of the South African Décor and Design Buyer’s Guide answers our questions about this year’s home trends

What are today’s major trends in interiors? Oversized blooms, concrete and metallics are finding their way into home décor. Interiors are getting busy with textures, embroidery and print. Mixing metal and wood is popular; vintage is strong, while at the same time the tech revolution continues. Comfort is key.

What about furniture?

Metallic continues to shine. Other trends I’ve seen are weaves in wicker and neoprene, or even crochet. There’s a definite return to curvy, pretty and retro furniture.

What colour trends are you noticing? Confident reds and mustard yellow are great accent colours, as are navy and green. Ultra violet, Pantone’s colour of the year, is up there too. Pearl greys are innately comfortable and add a relaxed air to any space. And black, my all-time favourite, is here to stay.

Other trends you’d highlight?

Designer rugs that play with scale, colour and form are back in vogue. Decorative art in bold geometrics is making its way into people’s homes, and plates are the new way to decorate walls.

For me the true beauty of an object lies in whether I can live with it.

What, for you, is the value of trends?

I can appreciate every trend I come across but for me the true beauty of an object lies in whether I can live with it. It’s like shoes. I may find a beautiful pair straight off the catwalk but if they’re not comfortable I won’t buy them. The same goes for interiors. Trends are useful as a guide, but it’s up to you to create a holistic and comfortable interior which is an extension of your personality.

Tips to stay on trend with a small budget? Go for what you love. Be comfortable with your living space — you are the one spending time in it. www.sadecor.co.za