16 Mar 2014 Color and pattern dominate housing trends
by RaeLynn Callaway
It doesn’t matter where you look or what you read, 2014 is going to be inspired by color and lots of pattern.
Did you realize that 90 percent of your buying decisions are based on color? In working with color and fabrics, I have combined the findings from Sherwin Williams experts and global trend analyst Milon Ket to bring you color palettes and pattern/print trends to watch for in 2014.
Reasonable
This is where intellectual and practical meet with historic and luxurious, using math and art to create patterns and shapes where the negative space and tone on tone are as important as the form itself.
This motif will place importance on black, white and neutrals, not the harsh contrast of black and white of the past, but softer, more relaxing tones that take the edge off, creating a more comfy and relaxing space. We will see more of the large baroque and traditional patterns used. Metallic will also play a strong role with gold and copper featuring subtle and shiny contrasts.
Ethereal
Dainty, airy and translucent. This is where a balance of simplicity, dainty colors and strength are soothed by softness — a home sweet home feel with a romantic theme, using feminine, romantic and delicate prints and combining the old with the new. You will begin to see the floral patterns and chint textiles emerge. Transparent, fresh and light are the words to describe these materials of choice, using linens and sheers to create mood.
Inquiring
Strange, odd and wonderful. This delves into design inspired by nature at the molecular level. We’ll see very organic patterns, textures and colors where opposites attract. Look for bold accents applied to neutral colors and bright chromatic splashes over unsaturated undertones for a fresh and lively space that invigorates the senses and perks up the spirit.
Inherent
Basic, fundamental and essential. Taking us back to ethnic and cultural traditions, this trend is intent on preserving the appreciation for native and hand-made crafts and retaining their timeless enchantment. This trend explores the warm color palettes mixed with a bohemian influence of bold color. The patterns will be in kilims, spots and stains with tie-dyes and original patterns in embroidery and batik coming from all over the world. It also can incorporate hair on hide. We are seeing the hair on hide not only in rugs, but also on couches, consoles, ottomans and cushions.
Palatial
Lavish, rich and transitional. Bright colors with strong combinations will dominate this trend. There is a geometric focus with the application of overlapping shapes and graphic effects. When done right, it is eye catching with a razzle-dazzle edge.
Remember, you need to feel at home with the colors and patterns that you choose. There is a continued trend of timeless design. Incorporating any of the above trends with your more traditional or transitional design is never going to drift out of style and is a secure strategy of updating your look.
A board certified interior designer, RaeLynn Callaway owns CYInteriors (raelynncallaway.com). She and her husband, Bart, have three children and live in Conway.
