Putting 2024’s Hottest Trends into Practice

March 16, 2024

It’s officially begun: You heard it here, plain is officially out of the picture. Interior decorating in 2024 is taking a more personal, more dynamic approach, and it’s all just bubbling beneath the surface.

And as we waited with bated breath for that first glimmer of the trending “it” hue, the world’s colour authorities make their highly anticipated revelations for the new colour of the year. As always, the forecast for 2024 does not disappoint.

Benjamin Moore indeed announced its colour of choice in October – Blue Nova, a saturated blue-violet blend that the brand describes as “inspired by the brilliance of a new star formed in space,” in a departure toward a deeper, more dramatic and bolder aesthetic. How’s that for kicking off the new year with a bang?

Pattern trends are charting a path similar to their colour counterpart, vibing on new discovery in experimental, experiential and eccentric new designs with a decided nod to the classic throwbacks. I’m seeing heritage patterns gracing areas that were once left empty – florals, chinoiseries and geometrics featured in fabrics and wallpapers, adding interest to absolutely everything, evoking a sense of history, authenticity and tradition.

But all this intense interest can certainly be intimidating. The use of bold colour and pattern involves layering, which is where many people lose their confidence – unnecessarily so.

The secret to styling success is to choose one star to take centre stage; one bold colour or pattern choice that can rightfully steal the spotlight. One focal point. Then, find your supporting actors in colours and patterns that are quieter and complementary. Otherwise, competition and conflict will surely ensue – and neither is a welcome guest in the well-styled home.

If you find yourself lost in the layers, refer to the easy and highly effective 60-30-10 rule, which promises balance without the blunders. Take a step back and view your palette of colour and pattern in proportions relative to the space. According to this tried-and-true rule, 60 per cent of the visual area in a room should be devoted to your dominant colour or pattern, and is typically applied to background elements like walls, an area rug and a sofa. The secondary colour/pattern should complement the dominant, but differentiate itself to create visual interest. This will occupy 30 per cent of the space, for example an accent chair, throw pillows and drapery. Last but not least, the remaining 10 per cent of the room features your accent colour, which provides the “pop” that no room is complete without, like a contrasting colour, bold black or a shock of white. Use it this choice your art, accessories or any design details that you want to highlight.

When working with an “out there” colour or pattern, a great neutral can help bring it back down to Earth, even when applied in small doses. Accompanying Blue Nova, for instance, Benjamin Moore’s complementary palette for 2024 includes gently hued off-whites, such as Paper White and Paper White. On the flip side, when using a neutral colour as the dominant part of your palette, a bolder selection can dress it up and usher it into the modern era.

Interiors continue to evolve, year in and year out. Now more than ever, our homes favour character over cookie-cutter. Unique? Yes! One-of-a-kind? Bring it on. And with 2024’s vibrant and varied trends on the horizon, it’s only a matter of time – and some trying and testing of your own – before you discover your own perfect palette.

RED BARRINUEVO

Toronto-based stager Red Barrinuevo is the property stylist on HGTV Canada’s Hot Market Series and the Principal Designer at Redesign4more. He is an award-winning interior stylist who was also named one of the most influential people in real estate staging this year by RESA Global. His firm is known for enhancing and creating stylish yet functional spaces through its creative home staging, interior decorating, and design services.   www.redesign4more.com