With springtime in full swing, many homeowners are saying out with the old and in with the new and getting ready to freshen up their homes with brand new decor. If you're looking for some new design ideas, make sure to look out for these top 2016 interior trends.
Two-tone kitchens
Gone are the days of one-colour cabinets, 2016 is all about blending different colours or textures throughout the kitchen. The natural look is very in, with rustic unfinished wood being a popular trend, but to really up the style stakes you should be combining it with glossy finishes or contrasting colours. Try using light woods like ash or beech on your wall units, and dark, rich walnut, cherry or chestnut on lower units for a failsafe way to nail this trend.
Black stainless steel
Once upon a time it was chic, industrial stainless steel that was in when it came to household appliances, but now everyone is talking about coloured stainless steel, with black being a particular favourite. This sophisticated look is undoubtedly modern, yet somehow feels more suited to contemporary homes than silver stainless steel which can make rooms appear too cold and clinical. KitchenAid, Samsung and LG have all been trailblazers in the black stainless steel trend, so check out their ranges for some inspiration.
Tech-free living rooms
In protest at the world's addiction to smartphones, tablets and laptops, it's becoming increasingly popular to create totally tech-free living areas in the home without a television or phone charger in sight. By clearing out the tech you can achieve a more minimal, traditional living space, and can put the focus back on family catch-ups and good old face-to-face conversation. If a total technology ban is unrealistic, look for ways to hide it instead. You can stash TVs away in built-in wall cabinets, behind moving art panels, and even in sliding doors.
Bathrooms to live in
No longer just functional, 2016 bathrooms are instead becoming indulgent areas to sit back and relax in. This trend is seeing comfy armchairs, lamps, console tables and even chandeliers being installed in bathrooms, transforming them into opulent chill-out areas. If your bathroom isn't big enough to cram in extra furniture, opt for small changes instead. Could you make space on a window ledge for a vase of fresh flowers or some ornaments? Do you have spare wall space for a new shelf for books? Could your regular bath mat be switched for a super thick, cosy rug? These little changes could make a huge difference in the overall atmosphere of your bathroom.
Exotic fabrics
Taking centre stage in living areas is bright, beautiful fabrics from all over the world. Think boho florals, tribal prints and Brazilian brights, and you don't have to choose just one style either because clashing is key. Chairs, sofas, cushions and throws can all feature bright, brash colours and patterns. If you'd rather not commit to reupholstering your sofa just yet, you could instead incorporate colourful silk wall hangings or some bright and beautiful rugs.
