Brave New World

As we step into 2024, Abode2 talks style trends with their favourite designers and find out what’s in the interiors mix as the new year unfolds

Abigail Ahern

2024, looks to be an exciting year for interior design. I’m loving the fact that earthy colours and soothing palettes are around for a little longer and we’re going to be embracing our curves too. Accent chairs and cocooning sofas in soft, intriguing shapes and sumptuous textures rather than harsh lines will adorn our living spaces, along with natural materials in organic shapes, papier maché vases and carved wooden side tables that will add a stylish contrast to curvaceous seating for a pad that oozes calm.

Botanicals and biophilic design will play an even bigger role, celebrating natural landscapes so we can enjoy the benefits of surrounding ourselves with the comforts of nature to promote a relaxed, laid-back interior. Warm, earthy, soft and tonal, 2024 interiors will look to harness a comforting safe space for us to retreat, create and feel cocooned. Soul-soothing style that inspires us to live comfortably in our mind, body and home.

Naomi Astley Clarke

As the trend for creating bespoke interiors evolves, we’ll see a shift towards ‘maximalism meets nature’. People want to express themselves, have fun doing so and not take life too seriously. But it’s also about keeping materials and finishes sleek and natural. Think of oak floors paired with a wild Pierre Frey patterned curtain and marmorino walls. Large indoor plants, such as olive and fig trees, will rule 2024, alongside healing crystals. These natural elements will be used in an impactful way, creating stylish design statements.

We’ll also see walls with sharp, beautiful and uplifting designs, especially in the hallway. I love hand-painted wall coverings - whether bespoke pieces by Freddie Wimsett or De Gournay, nothing quite beats a decorative wall. If you opt for an eye-catching design, I recommend incorporating a few of the pattern’s accent colours into the rest of the room using plain textiles to give your scheme space to breathe.

Matthew Williamson

Unusual colour combinations are set to become more commonplace, as people strive to create their unique home. Colour-drenched walls can be the single most effective way to transform and elevate a space.

We’ll be making way for upbeat, characterful tones. Neutrals such as white, beige and grey can sometimes feel flat and perhaps a little bland. Pink, tan, clay, terracotta, peach and stone are just a few of the fresh ‘hero’ tones. These colours instantly warm up and modernise a space, whether used individually or combined in one scheme – as such, they’ll feel like new neutrals.

Tying in with the theme of a more personalised abode, layering and building on an interior template using what you may already have, will be another style shift. Can a rug be moved to another room to appear fresh again and change up a floor? Similarly with artworks – could they be framed, grouped and hung on a wall for a one-of-a-kind gallery?

Laura Hammett

The minimalist, pared-back and understated look that’s been popular for a while now, will bow out. In its place, evoking a ‘feeling’ will take centre-stage. I’ve noticed more and more clients on the hunt for unique conversation pieces with a story behind them. In a world of following trends, we still crave something distinctive and unrepeatable because our homes are a reflection of who we are and how we live. I love getting to know clients and helping them express that individuality.

My home is filled with a collection of one-of-a-kind antiques I’ve obsessively researched and sourced, unique trinkets from our family travels, furniture by designers I admire and things that simply bring me joy. Also dotted around our home are styling pieces from my recently launched Laura Hammett Living collection, which feels so special and surreal to see something unique that I’ve designed from pen and paper, come to life.

Jo Littlefair

More and more, we are seeing a holistic approach to sustainability, where consideration is not only given to the materials used, but also to the careful and strategic planning of the space itself. At the heart of our philosophy, is the creation of schemes that possess a timeless quality, ones that will resonate and remain relevant for years to come. This is achieved through sensitive and careful design that truly listens and responds to a property’s history, its contextual setting and the rich tapestry of culture that surrounds it.

In terms of the shifts that are shaping the design landscape as we look ahead to 2024, there is a discernible move towards a richer palette of colours and patterns. However, these are not the bright and bold hues of yesteryear, but rather more tonal shades that seek to forge a connection with the natural world around us. This is mirrored in the growing popularity of natural materials and dyes.

Furthermore, there is a delightful resurgence in nostalgic design elements that connect us to the comforting embrace of the past. This can be seen in the choices of more traditional furniture designs, as well as a renewed interest in the Arts and Crafts movement. It’s as if we are collectively yearning for a slower pace of life, one that is reminiscent of simpler, bygone times.