Make up for missed holidays with the new escapism interior trend - here is how to get involved

Escapism, the chicest new interior trend, is unsurprising, to say the least. 

After a year of staring at the same four walls, the desire to inject remnants of faraway lands into our home decor is only natural. However, the inevitably of this trend has not made this exotic aura any less exciting, as we curate our homes and gardens into a transoceanic haven, minus the jet-lag. 

Following the sharp desire for escapist furnishings, industry experts have shared their tips on how to indulge in this trend - so injecting foreign ambiance into your home has never been easier. 

'Designed to help boost your mood as soon as you set foot through the door or step out into the garden, this trend celebrates color, pattern, and glamour in abundance,' shared Lucy St George, Co-founder of Rockett St George.

'From vivid colors and the return of neon to the rise of tropical patterns, this trend is a maximalist's dream. Alongside this, we expect the Midas touch penchant for gold to continue in 2021and beyond as the perfect partner to the exotic colors and patterns of the global-inspired escapism trend,' Lucy added.

Invest in authentic and natural materials

Perhaps the most instant, and effective way of paying homage to escapism is through the interpretation of organic goods - whose style stems directly from nostalgic memories, and the countries you yearn for.

'We've seen a growing demand for designs that detail craftsmanship and natural materials, as this channel an element of escapism from hectic modern life,' began Andrew Tanner, Design Manager, Home & Furniture at Habitat. He continued, highlighting a parallel trend emerging this season - rattan. 

'Rattan in particular, which was first made popular in the '60s and '70s, has seen a huge resurgence in recent years due to its inviting sense of familiarity and handcrafted appeal.'

See more: 1970s inspired interiors are the retro fuelled trend taking over our homes this year

Andrew's suggestions are mirrored by Sabina Miller, Head Buyer at Heal's, who emphasized the importance of authentic materials and traditional textiles. 

'Transforming a zone of your house with nomadic collections and unique designs from around the world will add a touch of interest to your home as you look forward to future adventures.'

'Pieces crafted using traditional techniques, such as the new handwoven baskets from A A K S, which are made by a small group of entrepreneurial women in Ghana, will make a unique addition to your home while supporting sustainable practices,' Sabina explained. 

Similarly, Interior stylist and founder of AU Bespoke, Anna Unwin, suggested investing in vintage pieces that reflect the signature colors and patterns of their heritage. 

In the specific discussion of her vintage African pieces, Anna praised their 'earthy tones and muted color pallet' that bring 'warmth and texture to any neutral backdrop' whilst also 'sitting beautifully alongside both minimal and eclectic interiors.' 

The designer reminded us how authentic furnishings 'stand the test of time' and 'conjure up dreams of far-flung travels.'

Escape to the exterior

If you're also looking beyond your interiors for a colorful modern garden idea - look no further than this trend. Our gardens offering an airy and sun-kissed sanctuary (possibly) where we can recreate a therapeutic poolside setting or host an Ibiza-inspired garden party - even if it is a party for one at present. 

'Many people are using their gardens as a place to escape by bringing soft furnishings outside and using the space for alfresco dining as they would on their holidays. Candle lanterns, festoon lighting, and even garden bars give a garden that much-missed vacation atmosphere,' Lucy announced. 

Sabina also offered her advice on bringing the trend outdoors, suggesting: 'If you have a garden, layer outdoor rugs to zone out a corner of the space and create a warm, cozy scene filled with plants, cushions, and lanterns, transporting you to an exotic oasis.'

Exhibit memories from travels

One way to feel excited about your interiors is when you have a personal connection to your furnishings, and escapism offers an array of opportunities to exhibit fragments of your time in distant lands. 

This slice of individuality will continue to lift our spirits, according to Lucy Henderson, head designer at My Bespoke Room, who explains: 

'The escapism trend we're currently seeing is all about boosting our mood, remembering happy times on holidays and life outside of lockdown. Many of us have been reflecting on our memories of pre-pandemic life, taking the time to print off family or travel photos and curate a gallery wall in our homes.'

'We've also seen a rise in popularity of potted palm plants, palm print artwork, and soft furnishings, as well as trendy patterned tiles that exude Mediterranean aura,' Lucy added.

If you need us, we'll be sunbathing in our living room until further notice.