Forecasting season has officially begun with interior design trends 2024 and predictions are swirling for the new year ahead. As we wait with bated breath for the first glimmer of 2024 trending hue, the world’s colour authorities have made their highly anticipated revelations for the new Colour of The Year. As always, the forecast for 2024 does not disappoint.
Benjamin Moore announced its colour of choice in October – Blue Nova. The saturated blue-violet blend is intricately crafted, drawing inspiration from a newly formed star in space. The brand’s choice reflects a departure toward a deeper, more dramatic and bolder aesthetic. Imagine kicking off the new year with such a captivating burst of colour – talk about starting with a bang!
Image: Blue Nova, Benjamin Moore
Interior design trends 2024: Layering
Pattern trends are charting a path similar to their colour counterpart, vibing on new discoveries with a decided nod to the classic throwbacks. I’m seeing heritage patterns gracing areas that were once left empty, with florals, chinoiseries and geometrics featured in fabrics and wallpapers, adding interest to all aspects of the space and evoking a sense of history, authenticity and tradition.
While the intensity of these trends can certainly be intimidating, causing confidence in design choice to waver, the key to using bold colour and patterns lies in layering. The secret to styling success is to choose one bold colour or pattern that can rightfully steal the spotlight. One focal point of the space. Then, find your supporting actors in colours and patterns that are quieter and complementary. Otherwise, competition and conflict will surely ensue – and neither is a welcome guest in the well-styled home.
Image: Red Barrinuevo
Don’t forget that “pop” for a room
When navigating through layers, lean on the foolproof 60-30-10 rule for effortless balance. Step back and assess your colour and pattern palette in proportion to the space. According to this time-tested guideline, allocate 60% of the visual area to your dominant colour or pattern—typically seen in background elements like walls, rugs and sofas.
The secondary colour or pattern, occupying 30%, should complement the dominant one while introducing visual interest, as seen in items like accent chairs, throw pillows and drapery. Lastly, let the remaining 10% showcase your accent colour, adding the essential “pop” to the room. Whether it’s a contrasting hue, bold black or a dash of white, use this 10% for art, accessories or design details you want to highlight.
Image: Red Barrinuevo
Character over cookie-cutter
When working with an “out there” colour or pattern, a great neutral can help bring it back down to Earth, even when applied in small doses. Accompanying Blue Nova, for instance, Benjamin Moore’s complementary palette for 2024 includes gently hued off-whites such as Paper White. On the flip side, when using a neutral colour as the dominant part of your palette, a bolder selection can dress it up and usher it into the modern era.
Image: Blue Nova, Benjamin Moore
Interiors are in a perpetual state of evolution with a growing preference for character over cookie-cutter designs. The emphasis is on uniqueness—our homes crave individuality and welcome the one-of-a-kind. It’s a celebration of personal style like never before. And with 2024’s vibrant and varied trends on the horizon, it’s only a matter of time – and some trying and testing of your own – before you discover your own perfect palette.
Red Barrinuevo is the Principal Designer at Redesign4More, and an award-winning property stylist and interior decorator based in Toronto, who also appears on HGTV Canada’s Hot Market series.
Top image: Blue Nova, Benjamin Moore
