HURLSTON-TSENG DESIGNS
New design trends for 2019
Specific trends emerge each year, like 1970s glam or Art Deco style. These look fabulous in magazines and movies, but most people don’t want to live in a film set. For me, it’s more about the key overarching trends that impact across multiple styles over time rather than slavishly following a new look. Sustainability is gathering ground, with the sense that it’s preferable to incorporate and build on quality pieces you have, rather than start over; I’m all for that.
Key trends this year are around colour (a huge trend!), texture and mixing styles. There’s a move away from uniformity; so, look at layering colours, materials, textures and metals, or adding an unusual piece to personalise your space. Raw and refined can sit side by side, for example.
In uncertain times, people look for nurturing and comfort, hence warmer neutrals like sand, oatmeal and clay. Layers of one colour can look fresh; powder pink to soft coral and terracotta or burgundy, for example. Spiced honey and turmeric yellow are also coming through, and green is still very strong, of course, with its natural references.
There’s a trend for authentic materials such as bamboo, rattan, cork and terracotta. On the shape radar, curves are in; think rounded, curved and scalloped upholstery pieces.
As for patterns, one area that has evolved from done-to-death geometrics are the tribal- and ethnic-inspired patterns that started on clutch bags and jewellery. These are moving into soft furnishings and décor, and their hand-crafted, imperfect shapes exude a connection with nature and real humans that we’re craving in this increasingly digital world. Classic trends that are here to stay
Blue and white is a classic, and can be interpreted many ways in Hong Kong homes: the smart Hamptons look; a laid-back washed-linen beach vibe; or chinoiserie chic.
Greenery is going nowhere, and there’s more diversity coming through as people feel comfortable to experiment. The range of planters now is super exciting, from solid blocks of powder-coated metal to handcrafted basket weaves.
Neutrals will always have a following – they’re super elegant and calming. This year, it’s about making sure the colour palette is warmer and adding in those all-important textures. Brass will stay, too, but mixed with other metal finishes, nishes, most excitingly chrome or matt black.
Key trends this year are colour, texture and
mixing styles
Adding dding interest to an interior
For cushions, think using solid colours in a family rather than contrasting – so maroon, coral and dusky pink all together; or, go natural with textured weaves, fringes, tassels and handcrafted patterns. A strongly shaped vase can also make an impact, even styled just with leaves. And, back to the contrasting with texture, think a cement coffee table with a velvet sofa or a patterned woven basket next to a chrome 70s lounge chair.