How to update your home this year

I don’t believe in slavishly following interior trends. I’d rather invest in quality design that will last. However there are a few things you can do to bring your home up to date in 2024. Read on for some tips.

Stripes

Stripes have never really gone out of fashion, but this year you will see them everywhere. They are both traditional yet modern and work in so many different styles of home.

Stripes can offer a burst of colour in a space without stealing the spotlight – they blend with busier designs and create structure. This year bold, candy-style stripes in soft blues and pinks are everywhere – on shower curtains, wallpaper, sofas and cushions.

Ruffles

Ruffles are everywhere this year and add a touch of whimsy and playfulness to interior design. Look for ruffles on cushions, table linens, lampshades or curtains to create visual interest to your space. 

Choose fabrics in gingham or candy cane stripes and go for pretty ice cream shades to embrace the look.

Striking tiles

Statement tiles are everywhere from walls to floors. Dramatic patterns and unexpected layouts add personality to a space. 

Bold colour combinations, whether clashing, contrasting or harmonious, create visual interest. Experiment with new layouts and make your tiles the feature of the room. Use tonal colours applied in a striking striped design to add interest to a shower room or go bold and use metallic scallop tiles to add Art Deco glam to a small cloakroom, as I did in a recent project.

Statement wallpaper

Wallpaper has made a comeback in recent years. I use bold designs in so many more projects now than even a few years ago. Hallways and corridors can be difficult to decorate stylishly, and wallpaper works perfectly – often mixed with painted panelling or skirtings. A trend for next year is using wallpaper in small or unexpected places like in boot rooms, laundry rooms or inside closets to bring fun and an element of surprise to a room. 

Sink skirts

Suddenly undersink curtains are everywhere. They have a quaint and slightly retro feel, especially with prints like gingham or stripes. They are much cheaper than replacing old cabinet doors and can be run up by anyone with basic sewing skills in under an hour. 

Sink skirts, as they are called, are a great way of softening a room and adding character, especially when used in functional spaces like utility rooms or boot rooms. Bringing a touch of “cottagecore” to your home, sink skirts are a great way to introduce a splash of pattern in a space that can lack colour and decorative details. 

Will you be trying any of these trends?