2024 Trends Forecast
Although like many parents out there my “year” resets in September, I must admit that there’s just something about the feeling of rejuvenation that we all experience in January. Yes, we want to eat carbs all day and go to bed at 4:00 pm, but this is perhaps the catalyst we all need to start dreaming about warmer days to come and freshening up everything that surrounds us. And so, in the spirit of ripping that 2023 Band-Aid off, let’s take a look at what 2024 has in store for us, sprinkling in a touch of prediction for what we will fall in love with and what will remain in the Friend Zone.
First off, there are some notables spotted in 2023 that just won’t quit in 2024…everything Knurled, Fluted, and Bouclé, Olé! Not only are those staying firmly planted throughout designs, but they are also being reimagined in scale and materials.
At its core, the knurled texture is a product of function, providing extra grip for slippery surfaces. It’s rough, it’s rugged, and in design it was often associated with Industrial interiors. Over the past couple of years, our love affair with texture brought knurl into the mainstream and in 2023 we often saw it alongside two-toned faucets and cabinetry hardware to add a little edge to otherwise “pretty” gold accents. The trend for 2024 seems to be an effort to further elevate the knurl from its humble beginnings by loosening and softening the hatch, allowing it to shine and making it much softer to the touch. Also coming onto the stage in a big way is the straight knurl, perhaps as an echo to our love of everything fluted…Cue the Segway!
There is no denying that fluted texture has been EVERYWHERE this past year. We saw it go from wall panels to glass panels, onto millwork and other case goods. In 2024, we’ll see this trend continue to go strong but for those who don’t want a 2023 timestamp on their design, there are multiple alternatives now on the market. Imagine the concept of the fluted slat, but executed with angles, curves, or other added detail.
When exploring different materials, Consentino has stepped up and launched their UKIYO line of Dekton products, which showcases a wide (25mm) and narrow (11mm) fluted detail. These come in large 118” x 17” (approx.) panels, in 0.8cm and 1.2cm thicknesses, and five colour ways that’ll fit just about any style.
Why stop there? According to Lila Allen, a Senior Editor with Architectural Digest PRO, the world of textiles won’t be left out of this party. In November’s upcoming trends review, Lila mentioned that Corduroy was making a comeback and was bringing its BFF Chenille with it. Of course, Bouclé has been the Prom Queen for some time now but in 2024 we’ll see it get knubbier (yes, that’s the very technical design term for it) and reach beyond the traditional beige into two-toned colours. Paired with a shift towards oversized and built-in sofas, we may never leave our homes again after the winter thaw!
Now that we’ve covered the evolution of 2023’s Big 3, what new twists can we expect from 2024? Well, if Fall’s High Point Market has anything to say about it, we will once again be divided across the spectrums of design. Where last year was the dichotomy of Maximalism and a sea of beige, this year will be the abyss between curved organic shapes and a renewed appreciation for the simplicity of Brutalism.
Specifically, on Team Organic we’ll see scallop edges, ruffles, pleats, and trim details. Backsplashes and hood vents will curve into casual waves or traditional ogees. Your shins will celebrate as there won’t be a single edge around coffee tables! The feeling will even extend to the walls, where Roman Clay and Limewash finishes will surround us like fleece blankets.
For those who yearn for a bit more structure in these chaotic times, Team Brutalist has everything you’ve been looking for. Although its nomenclature is somewhat misleading, brutalism offers clean lines that are simultaneously simple yet offer precision in the details. These pieces often carry visual weight, which means that, much like your favourite concealer, a little goes a long way.
Last but not least, colour is making its way back into our bathrooms with a bit of pep. Kohler eased us into it last year with their Heritage Collection, reminiscent of many of our childhood years with visions of pastel Peachblow and Spring Green. But then bold colours that should be named after Sesame Street characters started showing up everywhere from Vola to Fantini. Statement handles are also stepping up their game, just beggin’ to be turned on!
Personal picture taken at IDS 2024
Of course, this is not an exhaustive list of all things expected to “trend” in 2024, but it's a good place to start. As I’ve said before, trends are as fickle and temperamental as a toddler wearing a snowsuit in the middle of Costco at 5:00pm. And for my part, I’ll largely treat them just the same and watch from the sidelines eating a snack while waiting for the dust to settle. My ultimate goal is to create an environment that caters to my clients and their needs - which means knowing what’s out there while not falling prey to “fast design”.
About the Author
Founder of TouchStone Interiors
After a successful and rewarding career in military healthcare, Nathalie followed her lifelong passion for design into the next chapter of her life. Beyond her formal education in decor and design, Nathalie continuously seeks out new and exciting materials and finishes to best serve her clients. An active member of the design community, she volunteers with the Decorators and Designers Association of Canada (DDA) and is a member of the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA). Her experience in healthcare and corporate management enables her to simultaneously design a space that caters to her client's physical and mental wellness while delivering a seamless project management solution.