designing home: 2016 Home decor trend checklist

I can't believe that December whizzed by without much thought to home decor blogging. The holiday season always puts things on hold. I have to make up for that with a good summary of what 2016 holds in design trends for the home.

How do I know what to write about trends? A good question for sure. Knowledge comes from a lot of reading and looking and being a good synthesizer.

A trend is never for one year; all I have to do is look back at what I wrote last year to realize that everything still holds true. When I write about trends I like to write about broader patterns I notice in home decor that I feel have some staying power.

There's nothing earth shattering to report for 2016, but there's usually not major shifts.

Plants and plant motifs bring the outside in

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You can also see the use of blue, wire furniture, and natural woods carried over from last year.

Pastels are still creeping in usually mixed with soft whites

Pantone's 2016 colour of the year duo supports this. I'm not saying I love this look but I do like the softness of the colours., there's just too much baggage attached to pink and blue. Take either separately and I am fine, especially that periwinkle blue.

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Here we see the nude pink with mint green (hello 1980's) and blue accents. Notice the plant!

Adding texture using organic materials

It could be fur, woven textiles from natural fibres, wicker, rushes, or plant life. All add that exciting layer of texture that every room needs for interest and excitement.

Censationalgirl

Hope you noticed the liberal use of greenery in this space too, and the white walls and furniture. White is the perfect backdrop for showing off textures.

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Warm metals in accessories, fixtures and lighting

I know I've been saying this for three years, but each year the presence of warm metals becomes more noticeable. Also consider burnished brass, copper and rose gold.

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This is a totally trendy room, nude pink undertones, lots of texture, warm metals, natural fibres, plant life and light walls. And the opposite is also trendy....

Dramatic walls and rooms

This is in direct opposition to the white/light look for walls and furniture. But drama can be embraced. It's not for me at all, but it is a look that appeals to many people. Navy walls are particularly fashionable as are black and rich greens.