Top Home Design Trends for 2023

The year 2023 changed how people view and use their homes. The minimalist styles that have saturated the design market are giving way to warmer, more soothing environments. Rising trends show that people are looking for inviting styles where comfort is king.

Here are 3 Home Design Trends Gaining Popularity in 2023.

1. Grandmillenial

The year 2022 left many of us longing for comfort and familiarity. This desire for a warm and cozy space may be the root cause of people exploring more traditional approaches to interior décor.

If you follow any interior design bloggers or social media influencers, you have surely seen photos of living spaces that would have been seen as outdated or stuffy not that long ago.

Those stuffy floral and chinoiserie-filled interiors our grandparents enjoyed are back with a vengeance and a 21st-century makeover. Simply put, “grandmillenial” is a juxtaposition between old and new. It is, hands down, the hottest interior design trend on the rise for 2023.

This trend is all about warmth, color and timeless pieces that create an eclectic space that is welcoming and personal. The goal is to create a living space that feels homier than the minimalistic trends of late.

Get the Look

a) Color. The pale, monotone color palette that has been at the core of the beloved farmhouse design style is giving way to deep, bold colors that add warmth and create a cozy atmosphere.
b) Furniture. Sleek mid-century modern furniture is being replaced by pieces that look like they came straight from your grandma’s house. DIYers have been upcycling furniture for years. Whether it is a hand-me-down or something you scored in a thrift store, it is sure to enhance this eclectic style, especially if you choose a bold color.
c) Décor. Granny chic spaces are full of patterns, texture and light. This look is defined by antique décor; soft, cheerful color hues, and a mishmash of patterns. Think plaids, stripes, florals and ruffles. Antique furniture, old books and photographs come together to tell your story.

2. Japandi

If your style leans more towards Marie Kondo than your grandma, “Japandi” may be for you.

Japandi combines two minimalist aesthetics, infusing the Japanese principle of wabi-sabi with Scandinavian décor’s preference for sleek-yet-comfy furnishings.

The Japanese style influence is earthy, warm and uncluttered. There’s simple elegance and ease to this style.

Scandinavian design features clean lines and minimalism in a cozy, informal and inviting setting.

Both styles focus on simplicity and functionality. When combined, they generate a harmony between minimalism and organic modernism, with a whopping dose of comfort to tie it all together.

In direct contrast to the granny chic style, Japandi design has clean lines and light rooms (in terms of natural lighting and color tones). It includes plenty of organic elements while keeping the minimalist spin.

A home designed in a Japandi style is sparse but not stark. It is not empty or soulless, but it is intentional and built for function. Design pieces are carefully selected to be functional and comforting without unnecessary home décor to clutter your space.

Get the Look

a) Color. One of the biggest differences between Scandinavian and Japanese styles is the color palette. Scandinavian design usually consists of white and neutral tones. On the other hand, the Japanese side tends to stick with earthy tones inspired by nature. A big part of what makes Japandi so appealing is that it creates a space that is bright and tranquil. Focusing on earthy, muted tones that are natural and simple is key to achieving this look. Think matte finishes with a light color scheme. Select creamier shades over crisp, stark neutrals.
b) Furniture. The principle of wabi-sabi embraces imperfection. Repurposing old furniture is not just for chic grannies. Choosing simple and low-profile furniture pieces creates a more grounded feeling that helps inspire the zen you seek.
c) Décor. Handmade pieces that incorporate eco-friendly materials as well as vintage items are key. Since both styles are based on nature, plants are a must if you want to achieve this look.

The look is intended to be light and airy. Skip curtains altogether to get the bright, sunny look associated with this style. If privacy is an issue, consider replacing heavy drapes with roller blinds or roman shades in neutral tones.

Simple, low-profile furniture and carefully selected accessories that bring elements from nature will complete the look.

3. Biophilic

Biophilia is the basic human tendency to connect with nature.

Biophilic design is a concept that has been widely used in the building industry. The goal is to increase occupant connectivity to the natural environment with direct nature, indirect nature and space and place conditions.

It has typically been adopted by medical settings, spas, and other hospitality-oriented businesses. It is intended to be comforting and intuitive.

Heavy reliance on screens and computers can leave us wanting more opportunities to connect with nature.

Studies show that this design style has positive effects on our mental, physical and emotional health. The environment is believed to make you feel inspired and has been shown to increase productivity. With the rising number of people telecommuting, it is no wonder that this style is rising in popularity for the home.

Get the Look

a) Color. Though blues seem to be a popular choice due to their soothing feel, there is no one color palette for this style. It is all about connecting to places in nature that you love. From the orangish-pink glows of sunset to the grey shades of an overcast day, you cannot go wrong with any colors inspired by nature.
b) Furniture. Biophilic environments incorporate natural, raw woodland elements pulled from their surroundings, like carved furniture, lamp bases, etc. Wicker furniture is also making a comeback as an element to this style.
c) Décor. Think water, plants, air and light if you want to create an atmosphere that is soothing and calming. Biophilic design style incorporates texture over patterns. Using as many natural elements as you can enhances the look. Ceramic and terra cotta vases, jute rugs and artwork with nature as the subject are essential to achieving this look, but the most important element is plants, plants, and more plants!

Can I Decorate My Rental Property?

Renters often feel limited in how they can update the decorating style in their homes. A simple internet search can give you a multitude of options for big changes that are not permanent and can easily be undone. If you are unsure of your decorating options, review your lease and consult your property manager or landlord before making changes that might result in a lease violation.