Happy 2023! With a new year comes new ideas and fresh perspectives. At Blackband Design we’ve channeled this renewed energy into home inspiration. Our team has gathered a collection of concepts that are currently inspiring us and our design projects. We’re always thinking forward for our clients when it comes to interior trends and styles. Years can go by between presenting designs and seeing them actually take shape in newly constructed homes. Many of these ideas will be popping up in our portfolio in the future, and most importantly, can be incorporated now in your homes for a quick and exciting refresh.
Let us know if you give any of these a try!
PICTURED ABOVE // PANTONE’S 2023 COLOR OF THE YEAR: VIVA MAGENTA
1. MIXING STONE SLABS
It’s no surprise that dramatic stone slabs are continuing to make a splash in the home design world, but it’s a MIX of slabs in one space that we’re excited about this year. Pairing a stone slab countertop with a different stone slab backsplash creates a seamless and bold contrast in kitchens, bathrooms, and bars. Love the timelessness of Calacatta and Carrara? Try mixing and matching these beautiful marbles with an exotic quartzite or rugged soapstone for a whole new and unique look!
2. WALL PANELING
Intricate wall paneling is a traditional trend that’s making a comeback in modern architecture. This three-dimensional wall treatment is used to add character and texture to a room’s otherwise flat and smooth surroundings. Vertical paneling can give the illusion of higher ceilings while squares and rectangles can frame furniture, art and lighting on the wall. These layers of linear details can also be used to define spaces in an open floorplan. Painted paneling in dark tones gives that bar or entertainment area the moodiness it deserves!
3. MOODY KITCHENS
Dark, complex colors are taking over cabinetry in the kitchen. Think charcoals, inky blues, muddied greens, and espresso finishes. Whether it’s stained wood or deep paint colors, these hues create an intimate space full of new inspiration and intention for cooking and gathering at a thoughtful pace. Complete the look with brass-framed glass accents, leather barstools and bronze hardware, or add contrast with light countertops and dark stained cabinetry. As always, cabinet lighting is a key element to achieving your desired mood. Our favorite complex tones… Farrow & Ball-Railings, Dunn Edwards-Good Night (DET598), Benjamin Moore-Green Grove (2138-20).
4. MIX OF ERAS
We’re big believers in mixing styles to create designs that stand the test of time and this trend digs deeper into that idea. Bringing back trends throughout history adds dimension and nostalgia to a modern space. Reimagine past trends through a current lens to create completely unique designs. Whether it’s reupholstering antique furniture with a futuristic fabric or pairing ornate accents with contemporary elements, this trend adds character to any room.
5. FULL ROOMS OF WALLPAPER
Wallpaper isn’t just for accent walls – wrap a whole room in a mood with this dynamic wall treatment. From bright and colorful to dark and moody, this bold choice completely transforms and elevates any space of any size. This is the year of maximalism when it comes to wallpaper, so pick a print (big or small) and let it span from floor to ceiling and all around for a punch of impact.
6. WARMER COLOR PALETTES
BEIGE IS THE NEW BLACK. Okay black is always “in” in our opinion, but beige, browns and creams are the foundation of warmer color palettes becoming more and more popular. As much as our clients say “no, no, no…” it’s true, brown is coming back! Layers of earthy wood tones, paired with autumn reds, natural fabrics and gold accents create soft and inviting spaces to enjoy all year round. Our favorites… Farrow & Ball-Jitney (293), Dunn Edwards-Carved Wood (DE6125), Benjamin Moore-Mustang (2111-30)
7. INTRICATE INTERIOR DOOR DESIGNS
The design is always in the details and doors are no exception. Swap out your standard interior doors for something special to complement your overall home design. From geometric and linear shapes to more complex moldings, these doors can set the tone for each room you enter.
8. SQUARE TILES / CHECKERS
This 80’s trend is here! Contrasting squares are taking over the tile game. Retro, vibrant checkered tile paired with modern lighting and sleek hardware finishes is fresh and eye-catching. It's not just for bathrooms anymore, we're bringing it into all areas of the home. Matte or glazed, checkered, or patterned – being square has never been so popular.
9. THE IMPORTANCE OF LIGHTING
Lighting has a natural way of setting the mood and this year we’re feeling more subtle, specific, and sexy. Mood lighting sets the scene. The art of subtle lighting adds elegance to a space and works to feature smaller details of a home. Whether you're highlighting a wine collection or architectural details like archways or coved ceilings, strategic lighting can bring any space to life.
10. NATURAL + ORGANIC MATERIALS
Gathering inspiration from Mother Nature has never steered us wrong. We currently have our eyes on large-scale flagstone and smooth yet dimensional plaster.
Remnants of flat stones are puzzled together like a mosaic to create the flagstone style. Its raw edges and coarse texture bring natural elements of Earth inside, under our feet, and up the walls. Our latest obsession, Moroccan plaster, or Tadelakt, is created from lime plaster and black soap made from olives. It's beautiful, dimensional, organic, and waterproof. Bringing the wonders of nature indoors!
BONUS TREND: HARRY STYLES EVERYTHING
We’re all about Harry Styles right now – from his over-the-top glitz and glam on stage to his more subdued and sentimental personal style, his fashion sense is an inspiration we would love to see in more interiors. Bright streaks of poppy reds and tangy tangerine can be incorporated in textiles, wall treatments, rugs and, of course, art. If you’re looking for something more subdued, Harry’s nod to nostalgic trends with his casual wear are reminiscent of embroidered table linens from the past, handmade quilts and applique needlework – all romantic details we’d love to weave into our current design.
