Room-by-room guide to interior trends

Renovators have untold numbers of small but significant decisions to make in a relatively short stretch of time.

Many of these decisions require an answer to the question: What’s on trend? Here, we collate a mix of established and super-fresh interior trends in each room of the house to help you navigate the maze of online information.

Kitchen

Darker, moodier kitchens have been edging their way into Australian homes of late, with matte black at the height of its popularity and dark greys, navy and indigo following close behind.

As we look towards 2019, it’s only going to get moodier. By this we don’t necessarily mean darker, but certainly more dramatic.

Colour contrast, texture, metallics and striking woodgrains and marble veins all come together in the fight against bland. Renovators seem finally to be recovering from the hangover of 1990s minimalism.

Bathroom

Not long ago, the word concrete conjured up images of ugly 1970s skyscrapers. Then, seemingly overnight, it became the floor material of choice, and now it competes with hitherto superior materials for customised bathroom vanities.

Indeed, concrete has ‘cemented’ its place on interior trends lists everywhere.

It is cost-effective and robust. But concrete’s main appeal is its edgy, industrial vibe, which works beautifully contrasted with more polished elements such as brass taps. Check out non-grey concrete tiles (pinks, blues, you name it); they will instantly modernise your home.

Living

The late American architect Robert Venturi is famous for turning the minimalist motto on its head with: “Less is a bore”. While not everyone agrees, more and more home owners are stepping out of their beige-and-white comfort zones and maxing it out with the best of them. It’s a sign of the times: We’re overwhelmed by the interior inspiration readily available and we literally want it all.

By definition, there aren’t many rules for this trend, but two things are key: Forget matching and instead think layering; and ensure that despite the aesthetic digressions, you still have some unifying elements. Where to start? Wallpaper is the ideal base for a maximalist living room and there are some good local suppliers to be found online via directories, such as Houzz.

Next, choose patterned upholstery, rattan chairs and rugs, then layer on the cushions, plants and artworks according to your favourite hues and styles. If you love the idea but lack the confidence to choose, it’s safer to hire an interior stylist for guidance.

Bedroom

One word: Bedhead. For years the market has been dominated by timber bedheads, sometimes rattan/cane. Get ready for the comeback of the upholstered version. For too long it has been associated with chintz and hotel glam, on par with a leopard-print chaise lounge, but easier renditions in neutrals and earthy linens are putting paid to that and its popularity is on the rise. However, the glam version is also piquing interest. Buttoned velvet in jewel or gelato tones looks a million dollars in an otherwise pared-back, contemporary main bedroom.

Children’s room

Scandi is still the look du jour for kids’ rooms, but style-savvy parents are craving a more maximalist vibe here too – after all, youngsters like to have a lot of stuff around them, right?

Our job as grown-ups is to maximise gorgeous storage, such as baskets and vintage suitcases, source a couple of mid-century furniture pieces, then pull it all together with modern touches, such as linen canopies and jute rugs.

If you’re keen to experiment with bespoke furniture but don’t know where to start, how about commissioning a timber bunk bed that could be turned into two singles a few years later? Independent furniture makers can be easily sourced now via online resources, such as Houzz.

The outdoor room

Australians tend to get a bit overexcited about barbecues and outdoor entertainment when spring arrives. The concept of an “outdoor room” is well and truly established and the latest trend here works well in our climate: The island resort.

Liberally season with rattan chairs and low tables, choose black-and-white stripes or sorbet sun umbrellas, then stock the liquor cabinet with cocktail basics and look forward to a bit of a staycation. After some months of solid renovating, you certainly deserve it.

Visit Houzz to see the portfolios and reviews of local architects, designers and tradespeople to help you find the best pro for your project.