When we talk about fall home decor trends 2023, we’re not talking about auburn florals and a stray pumpkin figurine (though we’re on board for that, too). Rather, we’re scouring social media, design publications, and our own design projects for the up-and-coming trends that are shifting the industry landscape for the long haul.
So, ahead of fall and winter 2023, we tapped our interior designer team for their thoughts on what’s trending, what’s on the horizon, and what has staying power into 2024 and beyond.
We’d say the number-one overarching trend is a shift away from lots of harsh, high-contrast black, and towards softer shades of brown, but we also weigh in on lighting and hardware finishes, paint applications, upholstery selection.
Without further ado, keep scrolling for our *official* list of fall / winter 2023 interior design trends.
1. Goodbye, harsh high-contrast
As mentioned above, this is by far the most prominent industry shift we’ve noticed in the last six-plus months, and we predict it will last well into 2024 and beyond. We’re seeing considerably less high-contrast, black and white spaces, be it paint and lighting or decor and furniture (example: a black framed chair with light caning). Instead, it’s all about more natural, softer shades of brown, cream, and ivory, from walnut furniture pieces to camel upholstery and tan curtains. We love the warm vintage charm it adds to a space!
2. Wall-to-wall paint (that’s not white)
Speaking of warm and cozy, the monochrome paint look (wherein you paint your walls, ceilings, trim, and doors one shade) will only continue to grow in popularity. This also speaks to the decline of high-contrast design and the overall trend towards more cozy, saturated, and enveloping spaces. We love this look in a home office, bedroom, small entryway, or half bathroom!
3. Colorful bedding
Dreamy all-white sheets had a chokehold on the design world for years, and we’re pleased to report that they seem to be phasing out. While white sheets are a common staple (and we love the ethereal look they lend to a bedroom), they’re a bit impractical and hard to keep crisp white for the long-haul. Instead, we’ve noticed an uptick in warm sienna, inky navy, and serene evergreen in bedroom design projects.
4. Colorful upholstery
Similarly, colorful sofas and sectionals are becoming more and more commonplace. While the crisp white or ivory sofa will always have a place (particularly when paired with bold wallpaper or a colorful patterned rug), people seem to be experimenting more with more colorful upholstery. We reported on the retro resurgence of camel velvet sofas, and we’re also seeing olive green, cove blue, and beyond. It’s such a pretty (not to mention practical) way to add warmth and personality to a living room.
5. More pattern play
Pattern play has been gaining steam for awhile now, but we’re really seeing it hit the mainstream in late 2023 (and beyond). From animal print and vintage-inspired florals and classic stripes, pattern is becoming more and more commonplace in living rooms, bedrooms, and beyond. We love the personality and traditional charm it adds!
6. Touches of lighting
Picture lights. Sconces. Wall-mounted taper candles. Gone are the days of standard chandeliers, table lamps, and floor lamps — people are getting more and more creative with lighting in their homes. From romantic mounted taper candles for a subtle glow, to hidden LED lights illuminating artwork, TVs, cabinetry, and even curtains, this is becoming a more common ask on design projects.
7. More silver, less brass
Yes, this one hurts us a bit, too. Silver has been on the back-burner for the better part of a decade now, as brass, gold, and matte black took center-stage. But now, our designers are seeing a marked shift towards silver decor, lighting, and hardware, and we have to say, it’s a refreshing change! We love mixing silver with brass for a dynamic mixed-material look.
8. Dark walnuts over light oak
When we were in peak cool minimalism, it seemed that wood tones were washed gray, jet black, or light, almost white oak only. And now, warm walnut is back and better than ever. From accent and dining chairs to tables, pedestals, and more, brown oak and natural walnut are everywhere, and it adds so much character.
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