By Hilda Youssef
As the world enters a new era of cutting-edge technology, interior design trends in 2023 reflect a desire for both comfort and innovation. We have seen a lot of interior design trends emerging throughout the past couple of years, especially in the F&B sector, ranging from bright monochromatic color themes, neon lights, reflective materials, and overall loud spaces. However, this year’s trends are turning towards more subtle colors and designs, such as the dominant use of earthy tones and soft curves in spaces rather than sharp geometric shapes. Additionally, there is a harmonious blend of timeless styles, with sustainability playing a major role. We’ll explore the exciting interior design trends of 2023 and provide you with a guide to the essential do’s and don’ts to help you navigate the trends successfully.

Sustainable Designs
In 2023, sustainability takes center stage in interior design. As the world goes through a major climate crisis, various industries have been attempting to play their part in producing environmentally conscious products and materials. In the world of design, two factors play a role. First, the use of eco-friendly materials within interior spaces. Second, producing nature-inspired designs to create a calming and harmonious space that can last for a long period of time. Eco-friendly materials include natural wood, reclaimed or recycled wood, natural stones, bamboo and finally wall and flooring finishes that carry less of a carbon footprint on the environment. Earthy tones, and minimal accessories are preferred in this case with natural indoor plants being the star of the show, for both aesthetic and environmental purposes.
Do: Opt for organic materials such as jute rugs for aesthetic and textural beauty. Choosing sustainable furniture and accessories that are ethically sourced are both aesthetically pleasing and a smarter choice for the environment.
Don’t: Forget about plastic and faux plants, they are harmful to the environment and do not bring fresh air into your space. Avoid using synesthetic materials and harmful chemicals.

Color Palettes and Overall Ambience
Color is making a huge come-back this year, mainly focusing on earthy tones. Earthy tones are not limited to shades of beige, but also include browns, pinks, coral, and greens. Mixing and matching colors by color blocking or even monochrome your space using these colors can create a relaxing, yet lively space for both your home and business. The overall ambience should be open, relaxed and include greater distances between furniture pieces to have a spacious circulation. Dominant accessories include paintings, greenery, and organic mirrors. Non-functional accessories such as bowls and various knick-knacks are out. The idea is to declutter spaces and focus on a few statement pieces to go with the color palette.
Do: Dare to incorporate pops of color through accent pieces and focal point furniture pieces, rugs, and paintings.
Don’t: Overwhelm the space with too many vibrant colors or patterns. Balance bold accent colors with natural hues.

Multifunctional Spaces
With the growing need for adaptable living spaces, 2023 sees a rise in furniture and design concepts that are flexible and multifunctional. Modular and convertible furniture are major trends this year. Foldable tables, sofas with built-in storage, wall units, and room dividers and even transformable tables are crucial.
Do: Embrace space-saving furniture and storage solutions that maximize living areas. Consider custom-made pieces that cater to your specific needs.
Don’t: Clutter spaces with unnecessary furniture pieces and accessories that lack purpose or multifunctionality.

Arcs and Curves
Arcs and curves have been popular in interior design for a while now. The use of arcs to separate spaces, or even as a part of the wall cladding, can soften the room with the right color combination. In terms of furniture and accessories: curvy sofas, organic shaped vases, sculptures, and lighting fixtures.

The interior design trends of 2023 celebrate a unique blend of sustainable practices, vibrant color choices and adaptable spaces. Outdated materials and themes such as the use of marble to cover walls and flooring, gold accessories and accents to create a “luxurious space” are all out this season, make way for natural stones instead. The overuse of whites and greys, accent wallpaper and dark metals are no longer favored, rather opt for earthy bold colors. By following the do’s and don’ts outlined in this article, you can transform your space in a way that aligns with the latest trends. Embrace sustainability, explore earthy color palettes, optimize space with multifunctional furniture and incorporate curves for a fresh an innovative space.

With over 7 years of field experience in interior design and architecture, Hilda Youssef is currently a faculty member in the Architecture and Design Department at a University and I has a Bachelor’s Degree in Interior Architecture and a Master’s Degree in Architecture, Planning & Landscape Design from Newcastle University.
Images courtesy of Kam Idris, Lea L, Anne Heijdt and Alona Gross on Unsplash.