Our five design trends for 2015

“Being constantly online often makes us long for a simpler, more authentic way of life. We find ourselves inspired by nature and its vastness, but at the same time, we all want a sense of security. To embrace this trend, have a go at creating enclosed, cosy spaces within your home. Use natural, warm colours that reflect the sun and earth to create nooks that wrap around you, such as a low wall, a corner sofa or a screen painted in an enveloping colour.”

--Marieke Wielinga, Global Colour Designer

“Life is becoming increasingly complex and multi-dimensional. I think our homes will reflect this, whether it’s with layers of colour, layers of light, or layers of accessories. Instead of using single colours, use groups or clusters of colours as a palette for a decorating scheme. The colours can be interwoven through a mix of painted surfaces, textiles, furniture, glass and ceramics. Layering pattern and colour like this will create a sense of depth, reflecting the way we now live.”

-- Louise Tod, Senior Global Colour Designer

“With space at a premium in modern life, we’re learning to make the most of every little space and corner, looking at under-utilized and un-noticed spaces from a new perspective. A hallway, mezzanine or corner under the stairs can be defined and made the centre of attention. You could try using combinations of beautiful, sophisticated colours, such as neutral pink, dove grey and khaki. One of my favourite tricks is to combine dark and light shades to draw the eye in and create the illusion of space.”

-- Heleen van Gent, Head of the Global Aesthetic Centre

“There’s a growing trend towards recognizing the best that men and women have to offer, celebrating our differences and how we complement each other. 2015 is all about pairing feminine and masculine hues – the look is classic, understated and sure of itself. For example, in the bedroom, partner damson purple, powder pink and cream with masculine khaki, slate grey and teal. I’d then finish the look with rich dark wood, and confident furniture and accessories that make a statement.”

-- Willeke Jongejan, Senior global colour designer

“I’m going to explore flea markets and thrift shops for unique pieces to create an eclectic look that reflects how community collaboration and collective resourcefulness are big news right now. To mirror this trend, warm colour palettes will be used in unpredictable ways, such as berry-toned pinks and reds that add softness when combined with lime and orange. And, instead of using patterns, you could use large blocks of harmonizing colours to create surprising effects.”

-- Marieke van der Bruggen, Global Colour Designer