There were some very clear interior design trends at last week's trade show in Melbourne with "new mid-century" silhouettes and palettes, and a huge emphasis on organic and textural materials and finishes being two of the strongest.
While the numbers of exhibitors haven't bounced back to pre-covid days, the quality of those there hinted that there's a growing demand for more investment type pieces. And even though manufacture is still mostly done in Asia, Australian design was emphasised and quality control continues to be front and centre for these suppliers.
"New mid-century"
This style is an updated and more contemporary interpretation of the style from the 50's to the late 70's with lots of timber and curved shapes and, in terms of palette, olives, earthy reds and mustards.
Low lines for backs of chairs and sofas and low entertainment units and buffets were also common elements across the board.
Outdoor furniture featured either chunky timber (mostly oak) or fine metal frames and tiled surfaces on side tables and coffee tables reminded me of Slim Aarons photography from that era.
Interestingly while boucle is still super popular for sofas and armchairs (and bedheads too), I didn't feel that leather was having a moment (like it did back in the day).
In terms of lighting, there is a very strong mid century feel to a lot of the product with black metal frames predominant and classic silhouettes from that era.
Organic finishes and shapes
Chunky (and sometimes, raw timber), micro cement, clay, slubby linens and lots and lots of coloured marble were everywhere. Boucle (mentioned above) maintains its popularity for sofas etc but linens were quite popular too.
There's a lot of focus on hand-made or hand finished items such as woven light shades, papier mache bowls and decorator items, and rugs with carved details.
If you haven't heard of the micro cement revolution, you will soon! It's being applied to table tops and bases and even artworks too, to bring in that tactile element to a space. It's very popular on the architectural side of design too (think walls and kitchen benches) left, right and centre, but it's nice to see it on furniture items as well!
It's great to see a mix of materials in tables such as a timber base and a stone top. Interestingly, the stone look is very 'in' with either ceramic or sintered stone the go-to materials (especially now that engineered stone with silica is now banned).
What I did notice too, was that rattan is a lot less popular as are fluted profiles on cupboard doors etc. Which is a bit of a relief as it was getting a bit ridiculous!
Conclusion
When you put all the elements together including organic shapes, earthy tones, loads of tactile textures and an emphasis on the hand made, you can't help but wonder if the underlying message is a yearning for simpler, less polished homes. Imperfections and a nod or two to yesteryear imply memories of life before Instagram, being constantly on devices and virtual socialising....a time of actual authenticity and lived experiences. It feels like the tumultuous Covid years with the inflation rollercoaster that followed along with the political instabilities around the world has led to a weariness of the world and the reaction is to create warm, safe, comfortable, healthy homes to escape to.
Having said that, it was great to be able to go interstate for a trade show and see the exhibitors and their products in real life and see these strong interior design trends expressed in their products. I've worked with many of them for over a decade and I was reminded of the importance and joy of keeping those connections ongoing and fresh. It can be a tough industry at times, but catching up with supplier and designer friends can give such a lift!
The suppliers listed above in the photo galleries are trade only. We offer styling services using these and many many others to source beautiful furniture, lighting and decorative pieces to transform your home. Click here to learn more
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