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Jan 20

The Best Interior Design Trends for 2020

The Best Interior Design Trends in 2020 | lark & linenPhoto: Laura Resen Photography | Design: Jill Egan Interiors

The word “trend” admittedly isn’t my favourite. I much prefer to design a space that feels classic and will stand the test of time, infusing charm and character at every opportunity. Yet I can’t deny the fact that there are certain themes that come and go over the years, and having my finger on the pulse is imperative. Not only does it help keep things fresh, but being well aware of what’s the hottest of hot each year allows me to ensure that nothing I take on is too “on trend”. It allows my work to purposely remain in the classic realm, even if I’ve infused a few more current elements. There are a ton of trends I’m noticing this year, from the resurgence of all things 70’s, to pattern on pattern on pattern (on pattern!), however the following are my personal favourite interior design trends for 2020. The ones that I’d happily incorporate into my work and beyond. 

PS: Check out my interior design trends post for 2019, 2018, 2017 & 2016. While all of them were most definitely in the spotlight that year, I still love the vast majority, which is always a good sign!

[break]1/2 slab backsplashes
[break]

This is the one thing I’ve noticed more frequently than not as of late. Designers far and wide are tossing the classic mosaic or subway tile backsplash in exchange for a slab of stone installed partway up the wall. Not only does it look beautiful, but it makes for a seamless transition, and an easier clean up. In addition, I love that it gives you the opportunity to cap it off with a shallow shelf to display art and other curiosities.

The Best Interior Design Trends in 2020 | lark & linenPhoto: Jake Alexander Arnold
The Best Interior Design Trends in 2020 | lark & linenPhoto: Kelsey Leigh Design Co
The Best Interior Design Trends in 2020 | lark & linenPhoto: Farrow & Ball

[break]muted neutrals
[break]

It’s no secret that neutrals are my kryptonite (they’re just so timeless!) And while on one hand of things the resurgence of bold colours, as well as unexpected colour combinations, is alive and very well this year, on the whole other side of the spectrum, super soft neutrals are also the name of the game. I’m talking a whisper of cream, a desaturated camel, and just the slightest hint of putty. The results are elegant, serene, and simply beautiful. 

The Best Interior Design Trends in 2020 | lark & linenPhoto: Stoffer Photography | Design: Kate Marker Interiors
The Best Interior Design Trends in 2020 | lark & linenPhoto: Annie Hyrefeldt via Coco Lapine Design
The Best Interior Design Trends in 2020 | lark & linenPhoto: Timothy Godbold

[break]burled wood
[break]

The perfect combination of rustic meets glamorous, burled wood is making a huge resurgence this year, and I’m all for it. I love that it’s perfectly imperfect, adding just the right amount of warmth, character, and interest to a space. 

The Best Interior Design Trends in 2020 | lark & linenPhoto: Jean Stoffer Design
The Best Interior Design Trends in 2020 | lark & linenPhoto: McGee & Co
The Best Interior Design Trends in 2020 | lark & linenPhoto: David Tsay Photography | Design: Alexander M. Reid for Jenni Kayne

[break]reeded glass
[break]

From shower enclosures, to kitchen cabinets, to light fixtures and beyond, reeded glass is having a big moment right now and I secretly can’t get enough. It’s a great option to consider if you’re looking for a hair of privacy, without blocking any light. And I love that it effortlessly infuses a textural element into a space, which is always a design must. 

The Best Interior Design Trends in 2020 | lark & linenPhoto: Hammer & Spear
The Best Interior Design Trends in 2020 | lark & linenPhoto: Elizabeth Roberts
The Best Interior Design Trends in 2020 | lark & linenPhoto: Blakes London

[break]natural materials

[break]

While natural materials typically cost more, I have noticed a lot of clients vying for quality over quantity these days, and are optioning to splurge on more timeless elements when it comes to their homes. Marble and limestone countertops and sinks, brick facades, hand thrown pottery, and reclaimed wood beams are abundant, and I’m fully on board. 

The Best Interior Design Trends in 2020 | lark & linenPhoto: Jill Egan Interiors
The Best Interior Design Trends in 2020 | lark & linenPhoto: Tina Rich Design
The Best Interior Design Trends in 2020 | lark & linenPhoto: Jean Stoffer Design

 

There you have it! The best interior design trends for 2020, as far as I’m concerned. I’d love to know if there’s anything you’re noticing these days yourself. 

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  1. Joanna says:

    Muted neutrals – my home ✔️
    Burled wood – gorgeous ✔️
    Reeded glass ✔️
    Natural materials ✔️
    I don’t think I like the 1/2 slab look though. I guess it depends on your style. I could see this in farmhouse.

  2. Harriet says:

    I have solid wood custom wood cabinets from a kitchen remodel 12 years ago. The stain is a dark cherry wood. I still like it but want to update the kitchen with new countertops, backsplash and flooring. Everything that I see is white or grey or weathered. Will I be fine with leaving my cabinets alone and just lighten everything with white?

    • Hey Harriet! It’s so hard to say without seeing photos and going through a bit of a design process. I’m actually seeing a resurgence with darker cabinets though – but more so on the walnut front – if your cabinets are in good shape it’d definitely be worthwhile to have them refinished and/or re-stained. I also feel like the finish is incredibly important. I’d stay away from any wood cabinets with a sheen. A flat finish is definitely king!

  3. Peg says:

    Timeless!!! xoxo

  4. Ginger says:

    the 1/2 slab gives just enough splash of color & ‘stone’ without overwhelming the look. The shelf also adds more art to compliment and bring in the material & texture of the cabinetry. I really love it!

  5. Stephanie says:

    How about natural materials/70’s like high-quality knotty pine paneling on the walls or wainscotting?? We’re trying to figure out updating it without painting it all – and so far we’re going with lots of modern white trim, pillows and some greenery

  6. Kathy Menold says:

    Thanks for the info on refinishing kitchen cabinets. I have lots of 70s oak cabinets in my kitchen and was debating either painting a neutral cream or having them refinished with a wood stain. Either will be expensive. Love the new glass inserts you showed for some of my upper cabinets which ever way I decide to go.

  7. Cheryl says:

    I love the muted neutrals, white is my favorite color. I’m currently remodeling a rental property that I’m leaning to move into once done. My kitchen cabinets will be bright white and I also want to paint the walls white but with some contrast. There are so many white colors to choose and I’m having problems finding the perfect wall color. Can you please help…trying to stay away from whites that look pink and whites that look beige. I just want a white that isn’t stark, will have a contrast with cabinets and trim. Any suggestions? What is the perfect white wall color in your opinion?

  8. Shae says:

    How about…vertical smooth shiplap, more of a modern look. Reeded wall texture. Tone on tone neutrals. Vertical Stacked tile. Dry stacked tile. Washed out wood tones. Antique items like crocks and crates. Otherwise, everything you mentioned, you nailed!

    • Shae says:

      Also…painted white Natural wood. White walls. Dried prairie plants like tubleweeds, wheat, etc. displayed in vases, crates, and wood boxes.

  9. Cristen says:

    Love All of these!!

  10. Hi, Jacquelyn Clark. I have seen pictures on your website and read your blog on interior design. It is very impressive how we can design or decor and manage even a small space of our home by giving it a classy look. And you are right that we should not run for a trendy look and certain themes come and go over the years. Your pictures give me many ideas about how small things or old things which we think are waste for us can change the look of our space completely.

  11. Alex Smith says:

    We highly appreciate your ideas! We absolutely agree with you! Designing a space that feels classic and will stand the test of time is far better than imitating what is on-trend. We can combine charm and character through designing our homes based on our own definition of beauty. Designing is a matter of personal preferences and we admire you for following your own style. You put a deeper meaning on interior designing.

  12. Amy says:

    Couldn’t agree more with all your observations. What a great eye you have! I’ve shyed away from glass front cabinets (like open shelving) so not have to keep things tidy, but have noticed my eye being drawn to reeded glassware and lampshades! Classy, while adding a bit of texture…. LOVE! What a beautiful year 2020 will be with these styles coming to life!

  13. Lynn says:

    Classic wall moldings seem to be experiencing an on-trend comeback and I am thrilled! Coffered ceilings, board and batten walls, etc. Each add a classic and timeless touch to a newer build IMO.

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