“The last couple of years have really had an impact on the design industry. One of the impacts has been that there has been a strong desire for the home to be a place of both emotional and physical comfort,” explains Corine Maggio of CM Natural Designs. “I don’t see that changing; in fact, I only see that becoming more of a priority. In that same vein, people are now eager to get together and host. But instead of having a home that is very ‘show-y,’ I find that this comfort element has taken precedent. But that doesn’t mean that aesthetics are out the window. Quite the contrary. Being able to have a space that is not only comfortable and approachable, but also sophisticated seems to be the balance that many people are looking for. It’s a fun juggling act that really speaks to my own sensibilities so I’m loving this trend. Understated but high quality and comfort without aesthetic sacrifice.”

“Artwork really can bring a space together, but the use of just a flat piece such as a painting or photo is going to subside while allowing for more of a textural or 3D experience,” says Linda Hayslett of L.H. Designs. “People will be looking to more unconventional pieces to bring interest into a space, such as organic modern wall hangings, baskets bunched up in an area, or metal art that is industrial-looking.”

“The love for moody and cozy rooms that are layered are in stark contrast to the bright and light rooms that have dominated our Instagram feed for so many years,” says Clara Jung of Banner Day Interiors. “There was a shift early in the pandemic where people craved a feeling of warmth and often sought that vibe through their home environment. I’m such a fan of this ‘trend,’ although I strongly believe it’s here to stay.”

“As we head into 2023, I predict that earthly wonders, fun, healing, and magic will be centered in the design world,” predicts Justina Blakeney, founder and creative director of Jungalow. “That will manifest as finding new ways to connect with nature inside our homes: More ways to invite in fire, water, plants, sunlight, fresh air, and stargazing from the comfort of home. Color palettes will be bold and energetic. Botanical themes that evoke mushrooms, flowers, plants, and animals will continue to dominate. I believe that designers will be cultivating fun, exciting ways to connect with family and friends in our homes—think sunken living rooms that create intimacy, tubs built for two, and eat-in kitchens.”

“I think 2023 will bring more dimensional textures into our homes, particularly in spaces such as kitchen backsplashes and bathroom surfaces,” says Kristen Pena of K Interiors. “I predict the intent will come from plane changes and dimensionality over other eye-catching details such as patterned tile.”

“Plaster and micro cement will have huge moments in 2023, because why not? They are both so amazing, durable, and offer that beautiful seamless finish we are all wanting,” Shaolin Low of Studio Shaolin says. “Also, the texture and finish is unique to the installer which makes it one of a kind and super cool. I’m obsessed with using plaster in bathrooms and kitchens since if done right, it’s waterproof.”

“I think 2023 will show us stone being used in unique combinations,” explains Breegan Jane, designer, entrepreneur, and lifestyle expert. “Black and white stone mixed together in checkerboard and complementary patterns will trend highly in the upcoming year. The presentation is fresh and the neutral color combination is classic. We’ll see this manifested in stone emblems and inlays, flooring and embellishments, and in stone trim.”

“In kitchens, I predict that we will continue to see more color and experimentation,” predicts Amy Pigliacampo of Amy Pigliacampo Interiors. “All-white kitchens feel a little bit too safe and clients are getting more comfortable with their own taste regardless of what is on Pinterest. Individuality feels like the strongest trend along with meaningful objects; they could be symbolic of a special trip, passed down through the family, or made by someone important to us.”

“I don’t follow trends, so it’s fun that someone has asked me to predict some for 2023. I, like everyone else, am living through a time of heightened concern over the environment,” explains interior decorator and designer Liza Reyes. “I think we are awakening to this time of transition. This understanding that we are experiencing will begin to affect how we set up our homes. A deeper look into nature feels more urgent. Sustainable, recycled, and closed-loop products are not new ideas for 2023, but I think the trend in the last few years for fast housewares will begin to reverse. I am craving better and more beautiful objects that I can see living with for years, even if it means I need to buy less with my budget. I like knowing how items are being sourced and manufactured. I also see thrifting on the low end and vintage on the high end as gratifying ways to shop now that we can be out again. I think everyday household objects and utensils will be made more often with sustainable materials such as wood and metal, and we will see plastic less often. I love when there is a bit of whimsy and playfulness. I look forward to seeing how designers make these items fresh and new for our time.”

“Along with the minimal aesthetic, we are so used to seeing everything very textured, but now we will start to see bolder patterns and more murals,” predicts Genna Margolis of Shapeside.

“The pandemic, plus environmental concerns have really fueled this trend,” Maggio explains. “Many people have had a longing for the pre-pandemic years which brings out their sense of nostalgia. The vintage look, which actually has a wide range of styles and quality levels, brings a sense of comfort that we’ve all longed for at one point or another in recent times. Plus it’s incredibly environmentally-friendly. The furniture industry produces a lot of waste, so repurposing items can be a great way to counteract that. As mentioned, this can be done in a high-quality or economical way which is part of the appeal. It’s accessible and, because of that, it will be a trend with a lasting quality.

“Modern ’70s feels like it’s continuing to build as a trend both in color and furniture silhouettes,” says Pigliacampo. “Rich vibrant tones, pattern play, and low-slung, colorful furniture are coming from brands that may not have done this historically and it’s a really fun time to be designing!”

“The checker look is making a strong showing come 2023,” Hayslett predicts. “It’s being used in rugs, tile, flooring, and accessories. Checkers are a classic look that transcends through different styles. You can choose two different contrasting colors to make a statement or soft colors to give a little bit of interest, but either way, it’s definitely a look that’s going to keep going in a big way for 2023.”

“I feel like 2023 will bring more metals and stones together in furniture design, replacing single material pieces that have been trending in 2022,” Pena says.