Personally and professionally, 2023 was certainly one for the books. I traveled to some of the most beautiful and inspiring places in the world, I added some incredible new projects to my portfolio, and my charity had an incredibly successful and impactful run. This year has also been a good one for design. We saw a rise in functionality, an increased focus on wellness, and a lot more collaboration — but I’m confident 2024 will be even better and bolder when it comes to major design moments.
I always wrap up the year by pondering what’s to come for our industry. This is my favorite blog post every year, and I’m thrilled to share my predictions for 2024’s biggest design trends. (P.S. Click here to read last year’s version and see how many 2023 predictions I got right!)
1. The Bolder, the better.
Everywhere I look these days, I’m seeing bold patterns, colors, and textures. Sign me up! At AKD, we’re mixing fabrics and adding trims and tapes to all kinds of pieces, which adds a really beautiful complexity to any space. My most recent projects also feature color in unexpected places, so look out for green and salmon sofas and seats. The way I see it, bold design makes every day feel like a celebration.
That said, it’s all about balance, and soothing tones and elements will never go out of style. We love mixing bold, layered rooms with those designed for serenity and relaxation. All homes require spaces that feel like a big, warm hug — and as long as our lives are busy and hectic (i.e. forever!), that requirement won’t go away.
2. Wellness > Everything.
Speaking of relaxation, I predict that 2024 will take in-home wellness further than ever before. The focus on prioritizing wellness in design is really just getting started! I’m currently working with a company that will design a dedicated immersive and multi-sensory wellness space — in. your. home. How amazing is that? They’re creating curated rooms that integrate different experiences, including touch, sound, ambient light, visuals, and scents to create a tranquil environment that promotes relaxation and improved well-being. More to come…
3. earthy vibes, please.
What’s the perfect combo between bold and wellness-oriented? Unique colors in earth-toned shades. The cabinets in the kitchen of the new AKD studio are a cozy, earthy green (stay tuned for more!), and even pinks, purples, and blues can reflect the world around us (think sunsets, lakes, and oceans). The result is bold yet approachable, inspiring yet relaxing.
4. Texture is for more than textiles.
You know I love a sensory experience, and 2024 will incorporate more of that — even in furniture. Ribbed and reeded furnishings and finishes will be everywhere in the coming year, just mark my words. For those who don’t know, this is a decorative finish with a series of vertical, convex moldings — much like the reeded glass used in kitchens in the 50s and 60s, but updated for 21st-century living.
We’re currently working with our partners to custom-create several pieces using this technique on everything from kitchen cabinets to a basement bar. And I’m not just seeing it in wood furniture! I see it in metalwork, wall finishes, and tiles. It’s a really gorgeous detail that adds texture and height at the same time.
5. Light Up the Night (and the day).
If I had to pick one facet of design that’ll make a big splash this year, it’s lighting design. I’m talking less about fixtures and more about technology. The automation and design that allows for color tuning is really amazing — and while it’s not inexpensive, it can make a room feel like it’s getting natural daylight even when it is gloomy outside. How amazing is that for people whose mental health is affected by long, dark winters? For art collectors, too, it can really change the way you experience and view art in your home. A win all around.
Thank you for sharing such insightful predictions! Your foresight into the biggest design trends of 2024 is truly remarkable. It’s invaluable to have a glimpse into the future of design, empowering creatives to stay ahead and innovate. Your expertise is greatly appreciated!