Trend alert: colour is back for winter
Warm colours are back with a bang for 2020, according to trend forecasters. “Grey has been the go-to for several years now, so it’s exciting to see bold brights and soft, earthy neutrals coming through for 2020,” says Heather Nette King, interior stylist and Carpet Court style ambassador.
“These are colours that lift your spirit the moment you walk into a room. They cry out for layering of texture, matte finishes and, in some cases, a little bit of daring when it comes to decorating,” she says.
Two standout looks for the season, says Nette King, are Colour Play and Raw Luxe. “Colour Play is all about fun,” she says. “With its unexpected colour combinations and clashing patterns, it’s about having the confidence to break the so-called ‘rules’ of decorating and creating spaces that bring you joy.”
We’ve seen a lot of restrained colour and material palettes in recent years and while they are still very relevant, there is a new wave of colour-hungry homeowners who take delight in trying something new.
With the Marie Kondo craze sweeping the country, coupled with the popularity of minimalist Scandi styling, we’ve been urged to pare back our belongings to the bare essentials over the last few years.
“Colour Play is a reaction to that―‘more is more’ is the new maxim when it comes to colour, and quirky pieces that speak to our sense of fun are in vogue.”
“But don’t confuse Colour Play with a busy, eclectic look―it’s more refined than that. Think of it as ‘curated maximalism’; the colours and patterns might be bright, but furniture and accessories are chosen for their clean lines and styled with intent to allow plenty of breathing space.”
To create this style in your own home, start by getting the foundations right. The floor is one of the biggest expanses of space and sets the tone for the rest of your scheme. Opt for pale or white-washed floorboards that will reflect the light. For softness underfoot, go for a twist carpet in a pretty pastel or layer up with a statement, patterned rug.
“When it comes to furniture, don’t be afraid to mix old and new. Consider reupholstering an old Chesterfield sofa or armchair in hot pink velvet and pair it with a sleek and contemporary side or coffee table. Contrast your upholstery with playful colours on the walls, such as cherry red or apple green, or opt for bold checked or floral wallpaper. Balance this out with simple accessories, such as matte-finish ceramics and abstract artworks in a mix of brights and pastels.”
At the other end of the style spectrum, the Raw Luxe look is coming through for 2020, according to forecasters.
Want to read more? Check out the full article in our Winter Warmers digital magazine, which is out now!