THE NEW LOOK
The interior trends for 2019 are here and lavish colours, opulent accessories and a plethora of patterns are all in style
The only decorating dominating your home right now might be of the Christmas variety, but the new year is fast approaching and with it comes a glorious selection of fabulous interior trends. And one thing is certain: it’s time to forget the old ‘less is more’ adage and embrace 2019’s maximalism approach to home decoration.
MIX IT UP
Clashing patterns and mixed metal accessories are two of the biggest trends heading into the home in 2019. Gone are the days when all accessories had to match; now it’s time to embrace differences and let them shine.
It takes a lot of confidence to pair clashing patterns in the home but it’s a look that you can experiment with, working your way up from small accessories – such as contrasting scatter cushions and bedspreads – to full on clashes between sofa and curtains.
How do you make it work? Find a similar colour in both patterns to draw the pieces together.
As for the mixed metal look, don’t be afraid to combine accessories in gold and brass or silver and pewter for an on-trend home.
ALL THE TRIMMINGS
Trimmings are not solely for Christmas dinner. In fact, expect to see them everywhere next year.
From tassels to fringing and everything in between, embellishment is making a massive comeback in 2019. It’s not just soft furnishings which will be given the trimming treatment – although as always, investing in some trim-tastic cushions and throws is the perfect way to ease yourself in with this trend.
Lampshades, mirrors, pouffes, wall art and curtains will all be getting a fringing makeover.
Trimmings add texture and drama, something which has been missing from the minimalist looks of the last two decades. Pair just the right amount of trim with your existing interior and you will create a contemporary look that pays homage to decades past.
SOCIAL SPACE
The move towards making the home more of a social space has flourished in recent years.
The rise of open plan living and bi-fold doors which, when the weather allows, creates a seamless extension of entertaining space, makes staying in the new going out.
It’s a trend that led to the resurgence of the bar trolley, and while these art deco-inspired pieces retain their popularity in 2019, the more permanent bar cabinet looks set to make an appearance on interior wish lists.
A home bar is the perfect place to store your favourite tipple, not to mention all the paraphernalia that helps you create it! Their surge in the popularity stakes means there are plenty on the market, with price points to suit most budgets.
For a truly on-trend piece, find one with a scalloped-detailing on the door and subtle shelving lights to ensure it looks every bit as good on the inside as it does on the outside.
Make sure you place it somewhere with plenty of space around it, after all, people naturally congregate around a bar so you want to make sure there is plenty of wriggle room.
Then stock up on your favourite shorts and mixers, investing in some new glasses and inviting your friends round the toast the New Year!
■ Lesley Taylor is the author of 10 interior design books and has appeared on a range of network TV shows, including This Morning, giving inspirational advice on home styling. For more on her work, head to lesleytaylor.co.uk