The Top Interior Design Trends to Watch, According to Experts

Whether you’re looking to refresh your living room or are looking for a new color for the kitchen, there’s something here for you.

BY MONIQUE VALERISUpdated: May 24, 2022CHAD MELLON

Every year, professional designers and home editors (myself included) get a kick out of predicting the design trends people will welcome into their homes. Even if a specific movement isn’t suitable for you (a maximalist aesthetic isn’t for everyone, right?), it’s always fun to discover the color palettes, furniture choices and other decor elements that are all the rage at the moment. In other words, the top interior design trends for 2022are worth considering.

In 2021, people focused on pieces that mix style and practicality — think self-cleaning bidets for a more luxurious bathroom, for example. But this year, everything from bringing the outdoors in to experimenting with pattern and texture, and finding design inspiration from past decades are of interest.  

We connected with a group of dynamic interior designers to find out the top interior design trends that they’ve come across so this year as well as what to expect in the coming months. Use their thoughtful insights to upgrade your home, whether it’s a standout kitchen or calming bedroom, or simply enjoy thinking about your dream abode. There’s fun in that, too!

Home Libraries

LAUREN PRESSEY

“I’ve noticed that people have been investing in home libraries for their families. They are starting to grasp that not everything has to be on a laptop, smartphone or tablet.” — Linda Hayslett, LH.Designs2Pattern Play

DON PEARSE

“We are introducing more patterns in our projects and our clients are embracing it. We don’t suggest going overboard with overmixing large, bold prints or overusing prints on all the fabrics, walls and rugs. Instead, mixing a patterned wallpaper with a stone, wood or brick floor that has a shape and form, like herringbone or chevron, is a great way to play with pattern without looking chaotic.” — Maria Viola-Kuttruff, Viola Interior Design

“I’ve noticed that people have been investing in home libraries for their families. They are starting to grasp that not everything has to be on a laptop, smartphone or tablet.” — Linda Hayslett, LH.Designs

Pattern Play

“We are introducing more patterns in our projects and our clients are embracing it. We don’t suggest going overboard with overmixing large, bold prints or overusing prints on all the fabrics, walls and rugs. Instead, mixing a patterned wallpaper with a stone, wood or brick floor that has a shape and form, like herringbone or chevron, is a great way to play with pattern without looking chaotic.” — Maria Viola-Kuttruff, Viola Interior Design

“Textures are going to be utilized far outside of furniture and rugs this year. Tongue and groove boards on the ceiling add to architectural interest while injecting an earthy texture. Curtains can be used to filter light beautifully and add a softness to the room. Even lighting can provide texture to rooms, depending on the material used.” — Joshua Smith, Joshua Smith Inc.

Texture

LANCE GERBER

“Textures are going to be utilized far outside of furniture and rugs this year. Tongue and groove boards on the ceiling add to architectural interest while injecting an earthy texture. Curtains can be used to filter light beautifully and add a softness to the room. Even lighting can provide texture to rooms, depending on the material used.” — Joshua Smith, Joshua Smith Inc.4Natural Elements

CHAD MELLON

“An emphasis on natural elements and color palettes will continue to grow in 2022. Warm beiges, browns, blues and greens will provide comfort in homes with a calming presence and a look that is easy on the eyes. Furniture with blonde wood will help keep spaces looking light and airy.” — Lindye Galloway, Lindye Galloway Studio + Shop51980s Decor Inspiration

RON BLUNT

“The 80’s are calling: they want their mauve gray geometrics back in fashion! That layer of decades found in the vintage store wants to be able to have a coordinating fabric rug or wallcovering. — Kellie Burke, Kellie Burke Interiors

Biophilic Design

SETH CAPLAN

“After over a year of being shut inside, there has been — and will continue to be — a focus on regaining our connection to the natural world through the use of biophilic design principles, meaning there will be an emphasis on creating calming environments with natural lighting and ventilation, incorporating plants and creating a visual connection with nature.” — Amanda Thompson, Aline Studio7Bold Patterns and Colors

MIKE VAN TASSELL

“I expect to see a lot of bold color and pattern reminiscent of the 60’s and 70’s, and green in all shades as we continue to bring the outdoors in. I am especially fond of the more muted shades of green such as Sherwin-Williams’ Evergreen Fog, as seen in my own bedroom.” — Beth Diana Smith, Beth Diana Smith Interior Design8Traditional Details 

SPACECRAFTING PHOTOGRAPHY

“In 2022, we are seeing traditional details making a big comeback. With so much change around the world over the past few years, it’s no surprise that more and more people are craving a sense of comfort, timelessness or even a bit of nostalgia in their homes. From pattern mixing, skirted or flanged furniture, and the incorporation of antique pieces, this new year is all about honoring our roots. And we couldn’t be happier about it!” — Bria Hammel, Bria Hammel Interiors

3D Art

CHARLIE JULIET PHOTOGRAPHY, LAUREN BEHFARIN DESIGN

“We will see a push towards 3D art in 2022. People are looking to add whimsey, intrigue and life to flat walls as we continue to spend more time in our homes. Any art that pops right off the wall, and can be configured in different ways, is going to be very popular this year.” — Lauren Behfarin, Lauren Behfarin Design10Sustainability

THE NOVOGRATZ FOR THE SHADE STORE

“Sustainability has become a major issue for everyone, as it should. Looking into the sustainability of everything is a must and it is really excellent that so many designers are trying to learn what the best materials are to use for the long-term health of our eco-system. Luckily, there is a lot to choose from!” — Robert and Cortney Novogratz for The Shade Store11Mindful Spaces

AMANDA ANDERSON PHOTOGRAPHY 

“Next year will bring about a deeper awareness of our spaces and the impact they have on our emotions and wellbeing. We will see more spaces that have personality and personal ties to interests, hobbies and pleasures of its owner.” — Marie Cloud, Indigo Pruitt Design Studio