It was the year of oversize prints, pattern on pattern, and grandmillennial. We embraced a more colorful life with infusions of classic blues and ochers. We adjusted our outlook on what modern could be. In 2019 we examined these and numerous other trends, many of which we think will transcend trendiness to become timeless. Check out some of our favorites below and get inspired as we head into 2020.
Photo by Joe Schmelzer.
A Fresh Take on Modern
It’s no secret that a multitude of variations on modern style have been popular for quite a few years. While our enthusiasm for Mid-Century Modern may never wane, we felt the need to refresh our approach in 2019. In May, we explored the idea that modern decor didn’t need to be a singular moment in your home. We walked through ways to incorporate pieces that worked with every style. From hushed hues to simple lines, modern elements can work in almost any space.
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Photo by Laura Negri Childers. Design by Mallory Mathison.
An Ode to Grandmillennial Style
This was the year of the grandmillennial. The term, coined by House Beautiful this fall, resonated with a certain group of millennials who rejected the ever-popular Instagram design aesthetic of fiddle-leaf figs and whitewashed homes. The grandmillennials proudly let their chintz flag fly. The style is all about embracing comfort and frills. Throw a bow or ruffle on it and call it granny chic—but don’t expect grandmas to be the only people who love it.
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Photo by Nicole LaMotte.
The Rebirth of Florals
If grandmillennials were leading the charge for a reintroduction of large-scale florals, other tastemakers were more than happy to follow. Decorating with chintz and other floral motifs made their way back into the popular mainstream. From decking out an entire dressing room in pattern-on-pattern blooms to a subtle floral moment on the bed, we learned how to decorate with them in big and small ways in 2019.
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Photo by Nicole LaMotte.
Color Infusions
Gone are the days of stark white kitchens and homes; 2019 was all about embracing color. We talked about the idea that kitchens can be colorful when we spoke with Plain English Cupboardmakers in October about their latest collaboration with interior designer Rita Konig. In November, we told you about our love of warm and welcoming ochre. And to round out the year we celebrated Pantone’s 2020 color of the year—Classic Blue.
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Photo by Frank Tribble.
Rustic Elements
The rustic look had its moment this year as well. In January, we talked about the inviting simplicity of rustic sophistication. We followed that story up with a spotlight on decorating with quilts. Quilts have a distinct rustic Americana feel to them and we suggested pairing them with major color and pattern to amp up the glam factor. We also know that the farmhouse look isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.
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