Interior design trends for 2023 are vast and varied. There are some new colors, new textures and new materials, but most importantly, there are new moods. Most of the moods tend to revolve around a spa-like sense of serenity, or a fun and patterned decorative boost of joy.
"How people want to decorate has recently shifted," says the designer Lee Broom. "For a start, we’re all craving a better outlook, and part of achieving that is to condition your own brain to think more positively, which you can do by surrounding yourself with things that make you feel happy. Cocktail cabinets that move and rotate, furniture that’s geared towards sitting together and being convivial, anything that is a bit playful and glamorous and dramatic."
The interior designer Tara Bernerd agrees that there is a general move to sophistication, but it's a more relaxed take on sophistication than ever before. "While that feeling of luxury remains very important, don’t we now all want something that feels approachable, too?" Tara says. "That you can walk around barefoot in and not feel worried about? I find that people still want their spaces to feel grand, but while we might turn the volume up in the living room with some real wow design, we’ll then do a chic media room where the materials and textures are less formal, more edgy, more comfortable. This totally reflects what’s happening generally, as people are finding they can be just as smart without a tie, and women have largely swapped their heels for trainers."
This desire has filtered out and been interpreted in many different ways, but here are the interior design trends we think will be biggest in 2023 and beyond.
Rory regularly writes about trends for both the online and print versions of Livingetc. He is one of the very few people we turn to because he always has the finger on the pulse of what is happening. As a stylist and interior designer, he creates rooms for clients, meaning he has first hand knowledge of what people are asking for, what moods people are after, and what trends are bubbling up. He was able to put all this research and firsthand experience into action for this article.
Interior design trends for 2023
1. Golden tones
Origami Rockets Wallcovering in Bohemia, WK806/08, Kirkby Design x Eley Kishimoto.
Shimmering like sunsets, this pleasantly warm and flaxen hue is elevating interiors with a touch of pure luxe. Bethan Gray has used it on furniture, Arflex have it on chairs and it makes a shimmering splash on this wallpaper from Kirkby, who has teamed with global fashion house Eley Kishimito for this collection.
The design team says this print has been inspired by “the effect of multiple folded paper aeroplanes in flight”, created by an arrangement of basic geometric shapes and creating an overall complex looking design. And it is rather mesmerising, isn’t it?
2. Convivial seating
Hémicycle Vis à Vis conversation seat, Ligne Roset, available from Archiproducts (opens in new tab)
Furniture designers have spotted the opportunity to bring people back together again, and this new era in furniture design sees a selection of seating options which are all about encouraging the art of in-person conversation.
The Vis-à-Vis by Philippe Nigrofor Ligne Roset is a prime example. With its matt black lacquered frame and boldly blue upholstery, it is curvaceous, contemporary and offers two people the opportunity to sit separately, but with the feeling they are still next to each other.
It is neither a sofa, nor is it two individual chairs. And whilst it will turn heads as a piece of beauty, it’s actually been designed so that the users don’t need to turn their heads at all! Time to let the conversation flow.
3. 1960s-style armchairs
Armchairs seem to have taken a little bit of a back seat (excuse the pun) over the last few years. It feels like people have been opting for velvety sofa and jewel-coloured loveseat, somewhat overlooking the beauty of a single low-level armchair.
However, there’s a feeling that this is about to change as designers - and it’s the Italian designers we’re talking about, in particular - are bringing some rather delicious looking accent chair designs to the fore. They all have something in common; Inspired by 1960s lines, materials and colors, here is the creme de la creme to slip into, and then shimmy back out of.
Porada’s Copine Bergere Chair sports a lovely tall backrest (ergonomically, it’s a dream) and you can specify it either in a removable fabric cover, or a fixed leather cover. Previously available with a walnut wooden frame (and legs), the Copine Bergere is now also being produced with options of Black Nickel or - and prepare for a bit of a tongue twister - Brushed Bronze Brass finishes for the frame and legs.
4. Pure white lamps
642 Visier Lamp, £xx, by Sergio Asti for Martinelli Luce.
This new lighting trend is all about stripping out colour completely, emphasising shape instead.
The 642 Visier Lamp, made out of aluminium and painted in a cool white hue, is a perfect example of this interior design trend. It is arguably not just a lamp, but a piece of sculpture too. Looking a little like it’s coming in to land (clear a space on that sideboard!), we reckon this is futuristic investment piece will stand the test of time.
5. Heritage tiles
Carmona Collection by Bert & May
Reclaimed or vintage-inspired, the archive patterned aesthetic is more popular than ever.
Missing the Mediterranean? That's the joy of this heavily decorative approach to bathroom tile trends - you can bring a touch of it home. Referencing the antique tiles of Southern Spain, seek out the patina and colors that reflecting those of original reclaimed tiles. Use independently or pair with single color tiles for a more understated aesthetic.
6. Wall lights taking center stage
Superstar designer Tom Dixon recently told Livingetc about the importance of ‘light washing’, using bulbs cleverly to cover your walls in light rather than just beaming down on them from on high.
And it isn't coincidence that wall lights are becoming ever more sculptural, scene stealing, sensational and stellar. First Laura Gonzalez was a true highlight (or should that be eye-level light?) at Paris Deco Off with her Bosphore ceramic wall lights, above. Available in an earthy mix of hues, each ceramic cylinder is a modern take on the bobbin trend, incorporating them like jewels into these covetable shades.
Then brands like and Contardi debuted sculptural wall lights that look like works of art. Wall light are now stars in their own right, just hanging a little lower than you might expect. See our edit of these perfect wall lights.
7. Contemporary curtain trims
It’s happening - we’re adopting curtain trims at Livingetc. Previously having been discounted as too trad, the brilliant Samuel and Sons has changed all that with its super-contemporary approach to tassels, adornments and finishing touches.
The brand designs a whirl of iridescent hues that totally transform a room, and we’re drawn to the new Elora border, its swirls twisting up this curtain, adding a flash of unexpectedly modern decoration that elevate even the dullest corner. Trims! As a curtain trend! Who would have thought it?
8. Hideaway home offices
Hide the work day away with as smart WFH stations are now being disguised. To the unassuming eye they'll look like a drinks cabinet, or a writing bureau, or perhaps an armoire. But what they hide is all your work stresses and strains and papers and bits.
High end design brands like Porada are creating them, and for a sleek, contemporary take on a classic bureau, the Davenport by David Irwin for Another Country is beautiful in its simplicity. It is a complete home office in slices of pale solid oak furnished only with three surreptitious brass handles. Gone is the traditional angled front, adding enough space within for a computer screen, and inside you’ll find hidden compartments, a pin board, and cable storage. Plus, it doubles as a bar for after work drinks.
9. Bold borders
There is clearly a decorative vibe in the air, as while trims are big news in curtains (see above), borders are back, adding accents to living room color trends.
And they’re no longer confined to lying horizontally across a wall, this time it’s a lot more free-spirited – think bending around woodwork or breaking up segments of space. Studio Atkinson’s first range of wallpaper borders comprises five modernised classic patterns ready to roam the room in vivid colors and unexpected scales.
10. Alfresco showering all year round
Ever since Gwyneth Paltrow debuted her home spa to the world earlier this year designers have been thinking of new ways to fold this feeling into decor. The materials, the textures, the steam rooms...and now, the return of the outdoor shower, for an invigorating blast first thing.
And there’s no need to miss a mere moment of warmth as bathroom trends join the season’s open-air lifestyle. C. P Hart’s Luminous Tiles are happy on walls inside and out, weather resistant and durable to suit the most inclement of summers. Their au-natural palette harmonises with backyard materials and colors, while their high-gloss finish accentuates every sunbeam.
11. Luxe outdoor lighting
As we all want to spend more and more time in our backyard, it's no wonder the trend for luxe lighting has come outside with us.
The Lucerna Lamp, a design by Luca Nichetto, is the latest outdoor accessory to adorn tabletops this summer, from the Italian outdoor design specialists Ethimo. But this is no ordinary outdoor garden lamp. It’s chic, it’s contemporary, and it’s fully on board with this ‘new luxury’ vibe - products which embody a little of both the past and the future, in their makeup.
The Lucerna takes its name from ancient Roman oil lamps, however, also looks to the very latest LED lighting technology and incorporates a dual system with chargeable battery and pull out cable, all of which is wrapped in a protective casing of waterproofed anodised metal, which you can choose in either a steel or a brass finish. If you’re looking for stylish outdoor lighting then you might struggle to find better than this.
12. Wickerwork
The art of weaving with natural rattan, reeds, and certain bark material, wickerwork is quietly but firmly back on the design map.
And not before time. As people seek out design pieces and products which hold a story, and that carve a sustainable stance in the interiors marketplace, wickerwork products offer both elements of chic status and sustainable living ethos. From high end to high street, it’s making its mark
Wickerwork is particularly useful when it comes to outdoor furniture. It has the home spun porch decor vibe we're all craving now, yet in a more elevated way. The Bohemian 72 Collection, was first designed - as the name infers - in 1972 by renowned Italian designer Gabriella Crespi. Her original designs have become synonymous with celebrity and now - if you can even find a piece - command seriously juicy prices (Google at your peril ).
However, now Gubi is teaming up with Archivo Crespi to put the collection back into production. With a small edit of products to choose from, including the Lounge Chair, above, 3 Seater Sofa, Ottoman, and Lamp, each piece is constructed from the trunk of rattan and represents all that’s cool about 1970s wickerwork design.
13. Irregular rugs
Irregular rugs are striking designs that undoubtedly have all been created to own the floor. Not only do these living room rugs have an eye-catching print, they’re also all shaping a new outline in design, quite literally, as they all sport an unconventional shape.
Whether you’re going curvy, geometric, or angular, these top sports all boast a little bit of ‘out-of-the-box’ thinking, and we’re ready to embrace it.
A particular favourite of ours is the Mala rug, seen above, by A Rum Fellow.
14. Plumped-up seating
Designers are demonstrating how a more relaxed style of seating designs can combine comfort factor and everyday practicality, but with high-level refinement and ultimate style-desirability. It’s the Italian makers who are leading the way with this look. Bontempi Casa, Edra and Arflex all embracing curves as the newest chair and sofa trend.
Above is the Marenco Outdoor, a revised edition of the original Mario Marenco design, by Italian design brand Arflex. Available in an armchair, two-seater, three-seater and pouf, it’s a celebratory piece for Arflex as it marks 50 years since the first Marenco model hit the furniture design scene. And it would also look drop-dead gorgeous in living rooms too.
15. Ocean hues
Echoing the reassuring color of the sea, aqua is set to be one of the hottest shades of the season.
Opt in with larger pieces of furniture wrapped in oceanic tones, or hone in on smaller accessory items if you just want a cooling shot of blue-green brilliance. Glass experts Lalique have announced a new curated edit of mantlepiece-worthy vessels which are perfect for propping a mantlepiece or an elegant little side table or cabinet of curiosities, all in this striking shade.
Named after the spiky perennial plant, the Yucca wallpaper design, above, from Sanderson offers a striking stripe pattern for walls. It is available in four tempting colorways – we are sold on the sky/green but there is also botanical green, grey/ silver, and charcoal/gold. Using special surface inks, the wallpapers shimmer in the light and offer eye-catching color for walls.
16. Night sky minerals
Collection Grande Marble Look in Sodalite Blu, Marazzi
There’s a magical new material trend on the horizon and it’s awash with galaxy inspired finishes. Dark blue, veined with white and pale blue streaks is popping up everywhere, from this vanity unit, above, to luxury table tops. Defying anyone not to leap out of their beds in the morning Marazzi’s show stopping vanity unit created in a ‘Sodalite Blu’ hue is a feat of engineering. The ceramic brand’s ‘Collection Grande Marble’ replicates the intricate qualities and veinings of marble using 6mm porcelain, allowing for the grand impression of weighty slabs with efficient lightweight properties.
While teaming a deep blue Lapislazzuli marble top with an artistically forged bronzed brass base, Poliform’s Ilda side table is the essence of the rustic-luxe look we are all loving. It’s sold as a coffee table but don’t you think it’s jewelled navy hue inspires the perfect bedroom night-cap?
Ilda Coffee Table, Poliform
17. Contemporary Trompe L'oeil
Meaning literally ‘deceive the eye’, trompe l’oeil is an artistic device or conceit that has been in the artistic landscape for centuries - part demonstration of an artist’s skill, part delight for the viewer. It adds a bit of unexpected humor to the home, a talking point that will make both you and guests marvel with amusement, something that folds nicely into current living room trends.
Bonaldo’s New Perspective Mirror, above, plays with depth and perspective, giving the illusion of a room beyond the mirror and leaving space for the imagination of the person standing before it. The lines that decorate it are drawn freehand directly on the reflective surface and naively re-produce an additional environment than the reflected one.
18. Arches
Arch tiles by Livingetc x Bert and May (opens in new tab)
When we designed the Arch tile collection for Bert and May, we sensed that arches were just around the corner, so to speak. And it seems we were right. Arched doors have become big news in architecture trends for extensions and renovations, and the gentle curves are softening the hardened edges that have proliferated for so long.
"Harking back to Roman times, arches feel very contemporary all of a sudden," says Livingetc editor Pip Rich. "I'm excited to use our Livingetc tiles from Bert and May in my own bathroom renovation in 2022, as they add a grandeur while remaining friendly at the same time. You can't help but relax in a space with curved edges."
Use as a motif if you're decorating, or as a shape for windows and doors if you're renovating.
19. Colored concrete
Bathroom designed by Studio Ben Allen
Bathroom trends at the moment are very much about injecting personality while keeping to a monastic sense of spa-like serenity, which is where concrete comes in. The vivid hues it now comes in, coupled with the texture and depth it provides, makes it the perfect material for this space.
In fact, colored concrete is having a moment more generally. Seen in kitchens, on the exterior of extensions and used on floors, it is becoming the design world's favorite material. Architect Ben Allen likes it for how robust it is. "Because the pigment runs all the way through, if it chips, the marks don't show up," he says.
20. Cork flooring
Forget those 1970s connotations of orange cork tiles, cork flooring is back, and better than ever. Because of its eco credentials and the ease of sourcing it sustainably, it's actually one of the key flooring trends for 2022, available in a variety of hues.
Cork has natural thermal properties which means it is great for heat insulation and can be a much cheaper alternative to underfloor heating. Which means that its eco points don't stop being collected at just the way it's made. ‘It means a reduction in energy usage and utility bills,’ says Silvi Stoyanova, consultant for flooring company Bricoflor.
21. Portable table lamps
Let’s be honest, there never was much of an allure attached to the shelf tagged ‘USB lamp’ at the gadget store. Luckily tastes and technology has moved on from the sometimes gimmicky, most often uninspiring rechargeable lighting solutions into an exciting realm of stylish must-have new portable lamp designs by our favourite brands on the market, reinvigorating lighting trends for 2022.
“Without cables acting as a pesky anchor, it’s no surprise cordless lamps have grown in popularity,' says Pooky founder Rohan Black. "Perched on a kitchen shelf as a piece to admire, placed in the bathroom to create a moody members club feel, styled as part of a dining table spread or taken out to your patio as the evenings draw in - with our new ways of living portable lamps provide that much needed all-round flexibility. ”
Luxury Italian furniture band Ethimo has launched a rechargeable table lamp to its existing collection of tactile Gaia lighting, below. Teak bases with colourful linen shades lend an unexpectedly rustic contrast to smart tech associated with portable lamps.
22. Red earth ceramics
With its inherent warmth, red clay makes for a surprising twist on the more commonly seen white ceramics. Often red or ‘brown’ ceramics are associated with more coarse pottery, but there’s a finesse to this new wave of earthy vases and pieces, and an altogether contemporary stylistic edge, which make them avant-garde. Look out for subtle curving forms, an unglazed finish, and an appealing handcrafted raw honesty, ideal to slot into your living room ideas.
23. Wavy wood
Pause Coffee Table, Goldfinger
Kinked and curved, look out for the modern interpretation of the humblest of materials as a niche but appealing interior design trend for 2022. It’s a new wave. It’s time to banish straight-edged wooden furniture options in favour of the more fluid curvalicious form . Max Depret, director of homeware at Mauvais Garcon, says, “The 1970's influence we've seen in fashion runways lately has clearly translated into the interior world, and we are very much inclined to see curves and colours coming back into our homes imminently. From trinket trays, vases, pillow cases, or our wavy mirror, look out for these extra pieces to bring out some je ne sais quoi to your home!”.
24. Glazed exterior tiles
Extension by Beasley Dickson Architects (beasleydickson.com), tiles supplied by H&E Smith
Injecting a bright burst of colour that contrasts with traditional brickwork, glazed external tiles provide an eye-catching cladding solution for modern home extension ideas. This stylish finish comes with many practical benefits, too; it’s durable, requires little upkeep and offers an impressive service life of 150 plus years.
‘Glazed exteriors are unexpected and joyful, breaking the norms of London house refurbishments,’ says Melissa Beasley, director at Beasley Dickson Architects. ‘They satisfy the demand for decorative facades, providing an opportunity for a unique, crafted and personalised exterior.’
25. Cocooning furniture
Where home decor trends are concerned, cool cocooning has been gaining pace for a while growing rapidly for 2022. Squishy sofa trends, curvy shapes and snuggly fabrics are hot right now.
“There has been a shift in what customers are looking for some time now - more ‘homely’ comfort seating with deep cushions and more curves generally - a place to lay down as much as to sit,' says James Mair, Founder, Viaduct.
"Comfort, cocooning and creating one’s own world whether it is La Dolce Vita of the Italians or the hygge of the Danes is a key theme."
26. Mediterranean good vibes
Italian fashion house Dolce & Gabbana has been setting the style agenda for years. Cherry prints, gothic lace, and now blue and white good time vibes.
With its crisp yet classic color combination, Dolce & Gabbana's Blu Mediterraneo collection evokes the feeling of lazy summer holidays. Now you can enjoy it all year round thanks to pieces which make a statement but remain effortlessly chic. Take your pick from the beautifully crafted pieces including the Giacinto armchair, with its dark stained oak legs and chrome feet, the stylish Atena coffee table and the metal structured Era lamp set. Or simply take them all.
What is the decorating trend for 2023?
There is one main decorating look coming in as a big trend for 2023, and it's for spa-style, or for every room to be so opulent that you can't help to be relaxed.
'The rooms I design have the sensibility of a spa,' says the interior designer Noa Santos. 'Natural materials like marble and stone work together to feel almost monatic, especially in soft neutral tones like creams and beiges.'
Materials to use for this look include marble, concrete and Taj Mahal quartzite. 'It still looks beautiful after plenty of wear, and means you don’t have to always be policing the use of coasters,' Noa says. 'I also like silver travertine, and we’re using a lot of limewash. It has the same softness and subtleties as Venetian plaster, but if Venetian plaster cracks you have to replace the whole thing. Limewash can easily be touched up, which is so refreshing from a design point of view. As is Tadelakt in a wet room. Imagine all that time saved from not having to scrub grouting clean! Colorwise, we work with a lot of natural shades like ivory and beige, which feel more long lasting than jewel tones. Though I do love blue stone and a green marble called Guatemala Verde. It’s so dramatic.'
What is the color for 2023
Paprika is big news for 2023, and is set to be the most exciting interior design trend of the year. Brands like Galotti&Radice, Ethimo and Flexform showed paprika-colored designs recently, and it's a spicier take on terracotta that makes rooms feel warm and welcoming.
'Paprika works well with red-based browned and honeyed tones, which are both interior design trends in their own right,' says Livingetc's editor Pip Rich. 'They speak to a desire to have rooms feel like they're giving you a hug. My advice would be to paint walls a red-based brown, ceilings a honeyed amber and use paprika as furnishings. It's a brave look but will feel so sumptuous.'