For millennia, interior design trends have been used as aesthetic aids in our attempts to find some sort of inner peace: take the ancient Chinese art of feng shui, where spatial positioning corresponds with energy flow, or wabi-sabi, the Japanese practice of embracing imperfections, or ancient Rome’s fondness for using earth-tone colours and geometric patterns in order to mimic the harmony of nature. “There is more and more research that shows the direct influence that our homes have, not only on our moods but our overall health and well-being,” says interior designer Timothy Corrigan of Timothy Corrigan Inc. So is it any wonder that in 2022—our third consecutive year in a global pandemic—the top interior design trends are again focused on making us feel emotionally at ease?
“We have been forced to slow down and spend time in our homes—this drives a strong desire to really create a space that reflects both visually and affectionately what it is we are feeling. As of lately, we are paying close attention to how design has the ability to create an energy,” says Erick Garcia of the Los Angeles-based design firm Maison Trouvaille. “This all excites me very much—allowing the senses to drive a space.”
And what, exactly, are our senses drawn to in 2022? 14 top interior designers have some ideas. For starters, several predict the rise of the enveloping, earthy colour of brown, displayed in fabrics like leather or even in terracotta walls (how Ancient Rome of us). Others see a spike in nature-inspired surfaces and accents—think marbles and mushroom shapes—while others say their clients can’t get enough soft, curvy furniture. Essentially, anything that feels warm, welcoming, and cosy is in: “Clients are asking for warmth, comfort, and airiness—this seems to be a common thread amongst current and past projects,” says Garcia. Athena Calderone, founder of Eyeswoon, agrees: “Who wouldn’t want to design a room that feels like a warm hug?”
Then, there’s the pandemic reality that our homes have become the main settings of our lives: where we work, sleep, and socialise. Every corner, and every object we’re surrounded by, must serve some sort of purpose. Perhaps it’s a functional one—Kelly Wearstler touts the rise of useful domestic technology—or an emotional one, like Mark D. Sikes’s prediction that we will see more travel-inspired interiors. “We really want to examine what we love, what we want to live with every day and for years to come,” concludes Robin Standefer of Roman and Williams.
Shades of Brown
“Chocolate browns, camels, and caramels—there has been so much colour and pattern, especially pastels, the last few years and I think people will be ready for a palette cleanser.” -Mark D. Sikes
“Chocolate brown is back! And I for one as a ’70s baby am thrilled. But this time chocolate brown won’t only play with orange shag (cue my childhood living room) but also play well with other colours as a deep neutral for rich elegant timeless spaces.” -Danielle Colding, Danielle Colding Design
“Neutrals will take a bit of a back seat in 2022 as people start to experiment with colour again, but the palette will stay very close to hues you’d find in nature. We predict paint rollers will be dipped in rosy, terracotta tones, swathing rooms from wall to ceiling for a complete monochromatic moment that envelops you in its cosiness.” -Athena Calderone
“I think we’re going to see a return of earthy browns in 2022—from cognac to burnt umber.” -Justina Blakeney
Schönn’s Hadley shelf boasts an open solid-teak frame that braces seven slanted shelves in rich wood tones and active grain.
Schönn’s Honor console boasts precisely cut panels that angle diagonally on the front four cabinet doors.
Nature-Inspired Surfaces
“With more time spent indoors than ever before, we’re all seeking to strengthen our connection with nature. This has simultaneously inspired a resurgence in natural surfaces—think wood and marble being used across the board from backsplashes to bathtubs, furniture, and decorative objects. The raw, porous, imperfect nature of these organic materials adds depth, soul, and visual intrigue while also mimicking the calming, restorative ambiance of the outdoors. ” -Athena Calderone
“As a designer it is refreshing to see a return to material-driven applications—and it doesn’t seem to be cooling off. We see a desire for rich marbles, soft and organic materials, warmer tones and greige vs white on walls, earthy elements like wood and stone—this is all so classic and refreshing as it brings life to a space.” -Erick Garcia
Schönn’s Hannah coffee table comprises a designer marble or Melawood coffee table paired with a clear glass circular side table.
Schönn’s Nova side table is a modern design made from your choice of solid wood. The wood is treated to ensure longevity.
Curved Furniture
“A curved form is subconsciously read as safe, friendly, and welcoming. With everyone feeling a bit precious I think those softer shapes and angles will still be a big trend in 2022 in furniture as well as architecture.” –Sarah Sherman Samuel
“More gracious and sensual shapes, curved edges and deep, luxuriant seats.” -Martyn Lawrence Bullard
Schönn’s Ora bouclé chair is proof that things don’t have to be cold and hard to be chic. We’re taking the compromise out of the equation with chic furniture that’s to be lived in and loved.
The curved silhouette of Schönn’s Olisa couch feels perfectly composed, with the appeal of a timeless classic. Its distinctive frame paired with beautiful gold legs makes it stand out as a one-of-a-kind piece.
Elevated Outdoor Furniture
“Outdoor furniture will become more sophisticated and refined as we continue to spend more time entertaining outdoors, and our patios become true extensions of our interior décor.” -Timothy Corrigan
Schönn’s hand-made steel-frame Siena outdoor couch is made in South Africa with welded steel and powder coat treated to ensure top quality and longevity.
Regarded for its exceptional comfort and design, Schönn’s Serenity occasional chair boasts slung jute webbing straps cradling a single, large plush cushion.
Bold Patterns and Colours
“I believe we will see a move away from neutrals and people will be using more vibrant colours and bold patterned fabrics. Citrus green and RAF blue are colours I think we will see a lot of.” -Marcus Barwell
“The years of dull and muted colours have given way to bright, joyful colours that put a smile on your face.” -Timothy Corrigan
“The undecorated layered look of Bohemia celebrated by The Charleston Set, aka The Bloomsbury Group who bravely mixed patterned wallpapers with their art, will be setting the tone for 2022.” -Kathryn M. Ireland
Create the man cave of your dreams with Schönn. Need furnishing advice? Schönn’s home furnishing consultants offer expert advice on your refurnishing or decorating projects. Click here to contact our experts.
A fabulously unique show stopper, Schönn’s Stazie occasional chair features a scalloped, oyster-shaped back upholstered in a luxury blush pink with luxe gold legs.
Schönn’s luxury Samira teal rocking chair is handcrafted to perfection to ensure a comfortable seat in the elegant cone-looking structure.
Create the interior space of your dreams for 2022 with the help of Schönn’s quality furniture, fully customisable to your style, budget, and preference.
Need furnishing advice? Schönn’s home furnishing consultants offer expert advice on your refurnishing or decorating projects. Click here to contact our experts.
