Top interior trends for 2022
With the challenges of the past year, our homes have played an even more important role in our lives. As well as providing a safe retreat, they have had to become offices, schools, gyms, playgrounds, re-creations of our favourite drinking holes, holiday destinations we've craved, and whatever else we've needed from our homes. It's no surprise that this focus on creating functional spaces with an emphasis on comfort and calmness will continue into the new year. Here, we share some of the home trends that we can look forward to seeing more of in 2022, including furniture, colours and lifestyles.






Even more connection to the outdoors
Australians have always felt a connection to the outdoors, but spending more time at home has further reinforced its importance. Alfresco living and dining will continue to be a priority with Australians investing in more outdoor furniture and accessories to make balconies, decks, patios and backyards more functional, comfortable, cosy and stylish. Expect more sophisticated outdoor lounge sets and outdoor sofas with weather-resistant textiles and removable padding for added convenience. To get the most of outdoor spaces, heating and cooling needs such as fire pits and ceiling fans will also become vital. There will be more integration of outdoor and indoor living with more greenery and natural materials such as timber, stone and rattan inside, so we don't actually have to step outside to feel connected to nature.
Modular and multifunctional furniture
In the past two years, living rooms have become spaces not just for relaxing, but for Zoom meetings, kids play and fitness too. Kitchens aren't just for cooking; they're also hubs for entertaining and a place for the kids to do homework. In response, expect to see a rise in more modular, flexible and multipurpose furniture, and spaces that can cater for adaptability. Think nesting tables, extendable dining tables, modular sofas with moveable chaises and ottomans, and kitchen trolleys instead of permanent kitchen islands. Storage will also be more crucial to help us make our spaces more functional and efficient.
Invigorating happy colours
As we look in hope towards a more positive year, we can anticipate more bold playful colours such as cheerful yellows and bubblegum pinks as a way of personalising spaces and expressing creativity. The primary colour trend will also pervade with pillar-box reds and saturated blues. Bright without being showy, this palette is straightforward and understated, and will be most successful when used cohesively within a single space.
Earthier neutrals
Instead of stark whites and humdrum greys, neutral colours will become warmer, inspired by natural minerals and organic fibres such as clay and cotton. Chocolate browns will also offer an earthy aesthetic that grounds and provides depth. This return to earthy colours will reinforce our connection to nature and the outside world.