Interior design trends are interesting phenomena, seeming to change on a whim. Joanna Gaines gave us shiplap on Fixer Upper and Nicole Curtis reintroduced subway tile on Rehab Addict. But is it really that simple? A designer makes it to reality television and another design trend is born?
How Do They Really Start?
In reality, interior design trends derive from a multitude of external factors. Trends are influenced by world events and politics, technology and strides in manufacturing, economics and affordability, popular culture, the previous year’s trends, travel and social and traditional media.
For example, post-war eras saw the birth of Art Deco following World War I and Modernism after World War II. The technology of the 1950s and ‘60s built on that modernism – clean lines, functionality and mass-production using new materials – gave us Formica countertops and a plethora of plastic furniture. Throughout the decades, interior design continues to reflect the changing world around us.
Some trends have become iconic interior design styles: traditional, mid-century modern, farmhouse and all its variations, contemporary, industrial, and Scandinavian, to name a few. And as they say, everything old is new again, as some iconic styles become trends again, as mid-century modern did with the popularity of the television show “Mad Men.” Both interior design and fashion saw a resurgence of 1960s style!
Trends vs. Fads
Fortunately, some trends are short-lived, defining them more as a fad. Carpet in bathrooms and on walls, rag-rolling and most other faux paint treatments and popcorn ceilings are, thankfully, things of the past. Although, some of us are still trying to get that popcorn off the ceiling! And like fashion, there is room for the trendy. Just better to follow the fad with a few accessories rather than large investment pieces.
Interior Design Trends and Your Personal Design Esthetic
What is your style? Perhaps the most enduring design trend is some form of Eclecticism. For instance, combining antique, vintage, industrial and contemporary styles and unifying the look through the color palette is a form of eclecticism. It is a collected look, achieved by acquiring pieces you love, that reflect your personality.
Interior design trends are an interesting way to reflect on the history and circumstances they rose from. One can arrive at a new appreciation for the times and perhaps why certain styles resonate with you.
There is no shortage of references and resources, but here are a few should you want to explore further.
The History of Interior Design
100 Years of Interior Design Trends that Transformed Our Homes
It’s a New Year and that Means Many Interior Design Trends are on Their Way In – and Out
