GET 2020 HOME TRENDS FOR LESS!
Fancy sprucing up your house? Here’s how to tap into what’s hot in interiors for this year, without breaking the bank
BRING THE OUTSIDE IN
The Royal Horticultural Society has reported a ten to 15 per cent year-on-year increase in houseplant purchases since 2013. “Plants improve your environment visually, as well as having air-purifying and de-stressing benefits,” says Chloe Bullock, Interior Designer at the British Institute of Interior Design. “My favourites are snake plants and peace lilies, which are both low maintenance.” Pick up budget-friendly greenery from farmers’ markets or supermarkets, or visit garden centres after Bank Holidays when they reduce surplus stock. You can also try growing plants from seed instead of buying at full-grown price.
ADD HINTS OF BLUE
Pantone’s colour of the year is Classic Blue. Wondering how to use it? “Paint just one wall to dilute the impact if you’re not sold on a dramatic look,” says Chloe. She also recommends considering what you’ll need for the job. She advises, “Borrow brushes rather than buying new. If you’re renting, hanging rugs from walls instead of painting will add a splash of colour. You can also prop large picture frames against the wall and paint colour blocks inside, or frame sections of wallpaper using roll ends.” Not keen on blue? Pinterest searches for burgundy paint have risen by 75 per cent, and plum paint by 35 per cent, in the last year – so try a warmer shade to stay on trend.
MIX OLD AND NEW
“A home decorated with pieces from your travels, or items passed down from family and friends, adds a really eclectic feel,” says Chloe. “Use Freegle, Freecycle and local boot fairs, and even look for discarded items on the street for interesting finds.” Try using “saved searches” on eBay – so when a vintage Wedgwood pottery bowl becomes available, you’re ready to pounce – as well as Facebook Marketplace and Gumtree for quirky one-offs.
BE BOLD IN BATHROOMS
“Wallpaper in bathrooms is a big trend, but use a vinyl wall covering with a strong compatible adhesive, and stick with tiles in wet areas,” says Chloe. “If it’s a small space, don’t be afraid to go bold. Wallpapering the ceiling or hanging framed pictures on top of wallpaper might look OTT elsewhere, but in bathrooms it works.” Rockett St George is great for one-off pieces, and for fresh new storage units, visit Homesense and TK Maxx. Replacing tatty light pull handles will also make a difference.
USE BRASSY COLOURS
According to B&Q’s 2020 Kitchen Trends report, bronze accents will be everywhere. “Changing handles or knobs on furniture is a quick way to modernise on a budget,” says Chloe. “Try your local junk or recycling yard, as well as auction houses, flea markets and eBay. Replacing dated cushion covers, lighting and picture frames can also make a big impact for only a small amount of money.”