If you are planning to redesign your home anytime soon, then you’d likely appreciate learning what the latest interior design trends are. Following is a brief discussion on what some of the world’s best interior designers think will dominate the latter half of 2013.

Colors

Where colors are concerned, many designers believe that monochromatic color schemes will work best. While such schemes may not seem as lively as the splash of colors that characterized 2012, solid colors have the ability to create dramatic beauty and develop a personality all their own. Texture and accents are the keys to making this scheme work.

Monochromatic Themes Are Expected To Dominate. Image Souce: Flickr Photo By tommerton

Materials

Wood is one material that never grows old and is expected to remain popular. People naturally love everything from raw wood to polished wooden pieces. Wood is perfect for both traditional and modern interior designs. Brass is also a timeless material that’s expected to gain popularity, and is also appreciated for its affordability.

Computer-generated fabrics are another thing to look out for. They’ve already made the rounds in the world of fashion and it won’t be long before you start seeing them in living rooms as well. Embroidered and knitted materials are also expected to become huge hits – they offer a kind of charm that is not usually found in industrially-produced decors.

Wood is expected to remain popular because of its timeless appeal. Flickr.com photo by Stewart Leiwakabessy

Lighting

Industrial-style lighting provides the perfect complement to the different decorating and design trends that are expected to become popular. This type of lighting typically makes use of heavy metal fixtures, but these fixtures are often softened by the warmth of the light itself.

Accessories also tend to make these metal pieces more fun and seem lighter than it really is. Who knew pipe chandeliers could look so lovely?

Other Trends

Male Preferences – Men are now spending almost as much time at home as women. They’re helping out more with housework and taking care of children. This is expected to give rise to an interior design trend where more male preferences will be seen in homes.

This could mean functionality over aesthetics, sober details, and earthy colors. High-tech “man caves” are also expected to become a major trend, as men who spend a lot of time at home will want to have rooms they can call their own.

Green is In – More and more people are leaning towards environment-friendly interiors. In fact, ‘green’ designs have recently become a major factor not only in interior design, but also in architecture. You can expect to see more mobile plant panels, framed plant screens, and garden rooftops. Green design is both healthy and pleasing to the eyes. They also help with humidification and air cleaning.

In 2013, green is in as people start leaning more towards environment-friendly interior design. Pixabay.com public domain photo

Grace and Elegance – People used to equate elegance with plain colors and designs. Not anymore. Pretty and graceful designs made in classic fabrics such as Fowler’s Bowood and Colefax are expected to rule the roost.

Floral patterns will continue to be in style, but now with a white background to give it a more romantic and sophisticated touch. Striped carpets, upholstery, and wallpaper will likely be used to exude energy and vibrancy.

Art pieces will also be more prevalent in interiors this year, to give homes a more approachable feel. Even kitchens are expected to veer away from slick designs and lean more towards modern materials with vintage appeal such as weathered concrete and irregular floors.

I’m also seeing a big return on large living room sized rugs. Stores such as Southwestern Rugs Depot are following the trend and stocking up on larger living room rugs, especially ones which are full of vibrant colours. I’m finding green, blue and red rugs to be coming back in business.

Finally, people are expected to opt for more subdued designs with an overall natural appeal. People will increasingly turn to the comfort of their homes to recover from the stresses of their work.

Tina Madsen is a design enthusiast who brings her passion for modern décor and writing to her role as the NowModern.com blogger.  She also specializes in turning small living areas into spacious social hubs with bar stools and counter stools.