2023 Design Trends

Lately we’ve all been spending more time at home, which has changed the way we view our spaces, both visually and functionally. The days of all neutral white and gray palettes are quickly being replaced with more color and personalization. Who wants to sit in a boring room all day?! From bold paint to textured, wallpapered ceilings and statement furniture, it's time to create a fun space that makes you smile! 

Bring Back the Warmth! 

The early 2000’s brought cool tones - whites, grays and light blues. The trend has shifted back to warmer, earthy tones - greige, cream, even reds and pinks.  Sherwin Williams Color of the Year is Redend Point. Described as “bringing home the warmth and intrigue,” this color certainly embodies a shift to natural tones and more personalization. 

 
 

Remember that choosing a paint color is a commitment and you shouldn’t only choose based on trends. Lighting and surrounding surfaces, such as flooring and cabinetry, need to compliment your paint colors as well. Luckily, paint is easy to “try on” before making a final decision. If you aren’t feeling bold enough to go super trendy on your walls, you can always incorporate color trends with your furnishings instead. 

Don’t Forget About Your “Fifth” Wall

A growing trend that took off in 2022 was a desire to do something fun with that boring “fifth” wall… your ceiling! Rather than leave it white, we see people paint the ceiling the same bold color as the wall, paint patterns and murals, or even add wallpaper. We love the wallpaper our clients have added to their dining and bathroom ceilings!

 
 

We are no strangers to painting ceilings in Charleston - remember our Haint Blue porches? But as with all trends, they come and go and can quickly date a home, like the dreaded blown “popcorn” ceiling. The best way to avoid this outcome is to keep it neutral and start in a small space like a bathroom or dining room. 

Bring Natural Textures Indoors

 
 

Textures are making a comeback, and no, I do NOT mean popcorn! Think limewash brick and plastered details which are both intended to bring nature indoors. The desire to reflect nature is especially strong in Charleston where we are surrounded by beautiful flora. Again, adding texture is a trend, and you don't want to overdo it. Start small like a plaster surround on a range hood or limewash on a small accent wall. 

Personality-Driven Design

 
 

Homeowners are shifting away from the neutral spaces seen on Pinterest to cozier spaces that feature personal collections, layered textures and patterns, unique art and a mix of old and new furnishings. We are not only spending more time at home, but leaning into our unique personalities through design choices. Designing the home that is a reflection of you is a trend that will never go out of style!