9 Interior Design Styles that are Constantly in a State of Flux

One minute, monochromatic color schemes are in; the next minute, they’re out. Mid-century modern furniture was the hottest trend, and now it’s a little more ho-hum. Once upon a time, boho style showcased our individualism; now, it simply shows how we’re all similar.

Interior design trends are tricky things. What’s in is out, what’s hot is cold, what’s fashionable is now a faux pas. Even “timeless” designs, such as neutral colors, marble countertops, and white kitchens, will see their day as a passé look. 

No matter the reason, whether you’re getting ready for a remodeling project or searching for interior design inspiration, Maleno is here to help. In this piece, we look at nine trends that are constantly in a state of flux. We’ll also discuss what’s most important to consider when designing the interior of your home.

1. Fabric Window Valances

Windows valances are a recurring character in the world of interior design. With the right fabric, they can tie a room together, liven up neutral spaces, and complement bold designs. But valances can also limit natural light, look heavy, and seem kind of… grandma-ish. Not that there is anything wrong with grandma’s style, but ruffled-window adornments seem more ironically trendy than timeless.

If you’re set on window valances, remember that less is more. While vivid patterns and heavy fabric can be eye-catching, it’s likely to go in and out of style frequently.

2. Textured Walls

Every few years, there is a tidal wave of texture walls. Functionally, textured walls help hide drywall seams and imperfections. Stylistically, they add charm, quaintness, and an old-world ambiance to a room.  

But, unless the house is really old, textured walls can seem a little forced. It’s for this reason that textured walls ebb and flow as an “in” look.

3. Vertical Blinds

Vertical blinds are certainly convenient for adding privacy and cutting down on the amount of sunlight coming through a sliding glass door, but they can also make a room look dated. Some people have painted them, added fabric, and even stuck wallpaper on them to give them new life.

But, we’d argue it’s often a fruitless endeavor. Instead of vertical blinds, try alternative sliding door and window solutions like sliding panels, shutters, or curtains. 

4. Monochromatic Color Schemes

Is it possible to have too much of a good thing? Well, it depends on the current interior design trends. All-white and all-grey rooms were sweeping the world with their clean, streamlined look. But there comes a time when it all starts to look a bit sterile.

This vacillation between in-vogue and out-of-style occurs with more than just neutrals. Throughout the years, people have gone way over the top with pastels and various prints such as floral, damask, and chintz.

5. Wallpaper

For the past few years, wallpaper has been flying off the shelves. As minimalist and monochromatic color schemes fall by the wayside, bold colors and wild prints are taking their place. Some people even use wallpaper as a substitute for wall art.

While it’s expressive and eye-catching, the hard truth is that wallpaper trends come and go. In the early 2000s, people were scraping it off their walls, and today, they’re sticking it back up.

6. Farmhouse Style

Was farmhouse architecture and style finally put out to pasture? The unpretentious and practical aesthetic is still alive, but it’s undoubtedly waned since the debut of Fixer Upper in 2013. Many people who jumped on the look have transitioned to a more modern farmhouse style. It’s almost like mid-century modern meets reclaimed lumber.

There’s nothing wrong with the look. In fact, we’re confident it’ll be a hot trend again soon. But until then, homeowners need to know this trend comes and goes.

7. Tuscan/Dark Wood Kitchens

Every decade seems to have a new fixation with a different kind of wood. The '50s and '60s were dominated by knotty pine paneling. People were obsessed with oak cabinets and trim in the '80s and '90s. Homeowners in the early 2000s couldn't stop remodeling their kitchens in dark cherry and maple.

What once evoked old-world sophistication now feels a touch outdated. With high-quality materials, the Tuscan Kitchen is sure to come back into style. But for now, it's trailing behind modern and contemporary looks.

8. Single-Purpose Rooms

Dynamic, multi-purpose rooms are—and will continue to be—in for the foreseeable future. With technology, work-life balance, and recreational activities constantly changing, it only makes sense to have flexible living space. But single-purpose rooms do make a comeback every few years.

For instance, many interior designers foresee dining rooms making a comeback. Much of their resurgence is due to the pandemic. Many people are appreciating the moments they have with their family and friends and are making it a point to come together more often.

With technology occupying an increasing amount of our attention, it’s likely that people will long for an escape via a single-purpose room. That said, single and multi-purpose rooms will continue to duke it out as the “it” trend.

9. Open Concept

We're still a fan of open-concept architecture. But it should be known that this growing trend finally experienced its first shake-up during the pandemic. As people spent more time in their homes, they realized personal, walled-off space was an asset. There is less noise and fewer distractions, and in some cases, it's easier to layout rooms.

Keep in Mind: Change is Okay

Everyone will have a different opinion on what's in and what's out. What's important is that your home's look is timeless to you. It's why so many people have decided to invest in custom homes that align with their aesthetics and lifestyle.
With the knowledge that styles are constantly changing, find a custom builder to guide your vision toward a home that matches your current and future lifestyle. As a leading custom building company in Erie, PA, Maleno delivers unique designs, exceptional craftsmanship, and a one-of-a-kind collaborative process. If you're interested in learning more about building a custom home with a seasoned team of experts, reach out today.

Contributed by Matt Flowers

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