As 2024 unfolds, the world of home and decor continues to witness dynamic shifts, embracing innovative ideas that redefine the way we approach interior design. From sustainable living to the resurgence of classic styles, the trends of 2024 offer a diverse palette for homeowners to draw inspiration from.
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“At the beginning of a new year, there's an inherent sense of renewal and opportunity in the air which not only marks a fresh start for ourselves, but also provides the perfect canvas to revitalise our living spaces,” says Yael Geffen, CEO of Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty.
“It's the perfect time to embrace change, and 2024 brings with it a wave of exciting and innovative home and decor trends with possibilities are as diverse as they are inspiring and whether it's a small tweak or a complete overhaul, the new year encourages us to be adventurous and express our individuality through our living spaces.”
According to Geffen, the following trends are at the forefront this year:
1. Sustainable Serenity: Bringing eco-conscious design home
Sustainability takes centre stage again in 2024, with homeowners increasingly leaning towards eco-conscious design choices.
Natural and renewable materials, such as bamboo and recycled wood, are gaining popularity for furniture and décor and sustainable options like energy-efficient appliances, LED lighting, and eco-friendly fabrics are becoming the rule rather than the exception.
2. Maximalist Comeback: Bold colours and patterns make a statement
This year, we’re seeing the resurgence of maximalism, challenging the dominance of minimalistic design in recent years with vibrant colours, intricate patterns, and eclectic decor.
Don't shy away from mixing bold prints, colours, and textures to create a visually stimulating and personality-rich space. Maximalism allows for self-expression and individuality, encouraging homeowners to curate spaces that truly reflect their tastes and interests.
3. Art Deco Revival: Glamour and timeless Elegance
With its opulent glamour and timeless elegance, Art Deco is making a comeback in 2024. Incorporate geometric patterns, luxurious materials like marble and brass, and statement furniture pieces to evoke the spirit of the Roaring Twenties.
Art Deco-inspired decor adds a touch of sophistication to any space, whether through bold wallpapers, elegant lighting fixtures, or sleek, streamlined furniture.
4. Earthy Neutrals: The return of warm and cosy tones
There is a departure from cool neutrals, with a return to warmer, earthy tones. Embrace hues inspired by nature, such as warm terracotta, soft clay, and muted greens.
These colours create a cosy and inviting atmosphere, bringing a sense of comfort and tranquillity to your living spaces. Use earthy neutrals for wall paint, furniture, and decor elements to infuse warmth into your home.
5. Vintage Accents: Nostalgia meets contemporary design
2024 embraces the charm of vintage accents, blending nostalgia with contemporary design. Incorporate antique or vintage-inspired furniture pieces, retro decor items, and classic motifs to add character to your home; mix and match eras to create a curated and eclectic look that tells a story of the past while staying firmly rooted in the present.
6. Sustainable Fabrics: Conscious choices for upholstery
In line with the overall trend of sustainability, homeowners are increasingly opting for eco-friendly and cruelty-free fabrics in 2024.
Look for upholstery options made from organic cotton, hemp, or recycled materials and vegan leather alternatives, such as cork or Piñatex (made from pineapple fibres), provide chic and ethical choices for furniture and decor. Sustainable fabrics not only contribute to a greener lifestyle but also add a touch of conscientious luxury to your home.
7. Global Fusion: Culturally rich and diverse inspirations
Global fusion celebrates cultural diversity through décor so for a wondrously eclectic loo, infuse your home with elements inspired by different cultures, such as Moroccan rugs, Japanese ceramics, or Indian textiles.
The key is to embrace a harmonious blend of styles, textures, and colours that reflect the rich tapestry of global design influences. This trend encourages a celebration of diversity and a personal connection to the wider world.
8. Multifunctional Spaces: Adapting to flexible lifestyles
With the changing dynamics of work and lifestyle, multifunctional spaces are gaining prominence in 2024 with room designs that serve multiple purposes, such as a home office that transforms into a guest bedroom or a living room with modular furniture for various activities.
Incorporate furniture with hidden storage solutions to maximise space and keep clutter at bay. The key is to create adaptable spaces that seamlessly cater to the diverse needs of modern living.
9. Tech-Integrated Living: Smart homes for modern lifestyles
Certainly not a new trend but the integration of technology into home design continues to evolve in 2024. From smart appliances and automated lighting to voice-activated assistants, technology is seamlessly woven into the fabric of modern living.
Consider investing in smart home systems that enhance convenience, security, and energy efficiency. Smart thermostats, automated blinds, and voice-controlled home hubs are just a few examples of how technology can elevate your home's functionality.
10. Biophilic Bliss: Welcoming nature indoors
Biophilic design continues to thrive in 2024, emphasising the connection between nature and the built environment. Bring the outdoors in by incorporating indoor plants, natural textures, and earthy colour palettes into your decor.
Consider large windows or glass doors to maximize natural light, fostering a sense of openness and well-being. Biophilic design not only enhances aesthetics but also promotes a healthier, more harmonious living environment.
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Implementing the Trends: A harmonious fusion
“Incorporating these trends into your home doesn't require a complete overhaul. Instead, consider a thoughtful fusion that resonates with your personal style and enhances the functionality of your living spaces,” says Geffen.
Start with a Sustainable Foundation:
Choose eco-friendly materials for furniture and decor, incorporating sustainable choices like bamboo flooring, reclaimed wood furniture, and energy-efficient appliances.
Embrace Nature Indoors:
Integrate indoor plants, natural textures, and earthy colour palettes to create a biophilic oasis. Consider a large statement plant or a green wall to make a bold connection with nature.
Maximalism with Purpose:
Experiment with bold colours and patterns in strategic areas. Consider an accent wall, vibrant furniture pieces, or statement artwork to inject personality into your space without overwhelming it.
Art Deco Accents:
Introduce Art Deco elements through statement features like light fittings, geometric patterns in rugs or wallpapers, or elegant metallic accents. Balance the opulence with modern furnishings for a timeless yet contemporary look.
Seamless Tech Integration:
Integrate smart home features that align with your lifestyle. Choose devices that enhance convenience, security, and energy efficiency. Smart lighting, and security systems are excellent starting points.
Cosy Earthy Neutrals:
Opt for warm and earthy tones in your colour scheme. Consider a neutral backdrop with pops of warm terracotta, olive green, or muted mustard for furniture, cushions, and decor items. This also forms the perfect canvas against which to incorporate other trends.
Adaptable Multifunctionality:
Evaluate your space and reimagine its potential for multifunctionality. Invest in furniture that serves dual purposes and creates a flexible environment to accommodate various activities.
Vintage Treasures:
Integrate vintage or vintage-inspired pieces strategically. Scour second hand shops and consider antique furniture, retro lighting, or classic motifs to add character and a touch of history to your modern space.
“By seamlessly integrating elements of these trends into your living spaces, you can create a home that not only reflects the current design landscape but also stands as a testament to your personal style and values,” says Geffen.
READ: 5 improvements to consider to maximise the value of your investment property
Here is a look back at David Jacobs, Gauteng Regional Manager for the Rawson Property Group, favourite DIY home improvement ideas:
1. Kitchen facelifts
Kitchens are renowned for their impact on the value of a home, and clever updates in this area can give a lot of bang for your buck. Concentrate on external surfaces like countertops and cabinet doors, which are easy to refurbish without professional help.
2. Cabinet doors
Modern buyers definitely prefer light and bright kitchens and repainting old, dark cabinets a lighter or more modern colour can really open up a space.
Solid wood cupboard doors can be sanded down using a palm sander before painting, while melamine cabinets need to be primed with a special primer before they’ll be ready to paint. Remember to remove the doors from the cabinets and take off all the handles and hinges before sanding and painting. Use a foam roller with a water-based enamel paint for the smoothest and long-lasting finish.
3. Countertops
Great countertops make a big difference to both a kitchen’s appearance and the cooking experience. Granite, Caesarstone and marble counters are always crowd favourites, but they do cost a fair bit and need to be installed by professionals. Timber and Formica are much more approachable and affordable for the DIY family, and can be just as attractive if they’re chosen and installed well.
When selecting a Formica finish, Jacobs recommends avoiding dated options like faux granite or marble.
Modern wood grains and minimalist textures give the best results. A square edge profile rather than the traditional quarter-round also adds a more contemporary flavour.
For the more adventurous DIYer, there are also options like casting your own concrete countertops. Just keep in mind the general style of your home, and make sure your countertop choice enhances its surroundings.
4. Your garage
Garages may not seem like the most important part of a home, but Jacobs says homeowners can add a lot of value to their property by turning them into more functional spaces.
Garages are often underutilised. They’re ideal spaces for adding extra storage - something that is very important to a lot of buyers, and can often accommodate a mini workbench or laundry area with a little planning.
While adding a laundry corner to your garage would require a plumber, storage is an easy weekend DIY for the handyperson in your home.
You can buy ready-made cupboards and shelves from your local hardware store, but budget-conscious DIYers can also try second-hand websites to find old kitchen cabinets to mount along their garage walls.
For those with less available space, hanging storage may be a better option. Try pegboard walls with hooks for holding everything from bicycles to lawnmowers and secateurs.
5. Update outdoors
Garden spaces are still very popular with buyers, but a bigger emphasis is being put on ease of maintenance.
Water-hungry lawns and labour intensive plant beds are falling out of favour, but outdoor entertainment areas are in high demand. Homeowners with a flair for DIY could do well to combine these two trends by adding paved or gravel sections to their garden, and possibly a pergola or a built-in braai.
While paving may be hard work, it is DIY-friendly, as is the basic brickwork required for a simple braai. Construction plans for braais and timber pergolas can be found online, and all supplies are available at your local hardware store.
Remember, low-maintenance doesn’t mean bare of all greenery and life - try to at least keep a border of plants or creepers, and definitely preserve any mature trees.
6. Restyle your bathroom
Bathrooms may be tricky to totally revamp as a DIYer, but small updates can make a big difference here. Try a fresh coat of paint on your walls and ceilings and replace old-school towel rails and accessories with more modern versions. You can also refinish your bathroom cabinets, or replace your vanity entirely. Adding a few stylish mirrors or display shelves can be a great idea as well.
Retiling makes a huge difference, but it’s a pretty big DIY. If you’re not up for a project of that scale, you could consider refinishing your existing tiles using the specially formulated tile paints that are now available.
If you do decide to paint your tiles, just remember to follow the instructions very closely. For the best finish, avoid areas like shower enclosures that get wet on a regular basis.
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