Interior design took on a whole new meaning this year as the world stayed home and began to develop a new sense of appreciation for art, furniture and aesthetically pleasing spaces. And considering that research shows that incorporating direct or indirect elements of nature into the built environment has had a role in reducing stress and balancing blood pressure levels and heart rates, it’s no wonder we have started to focus on our everyday environment more than ever.
Rising up to the challenge, architects and designers began to become aware of their responsibility to improve their client’s well-being and even help prevent disease by designing ergonomical spaces that promote health and happiness. “The work cubicle is out, and the library-style workspace is in…. People are expecting spaces that they find at home in the workplace which means more sofas, cafe tables, standing work stations, and quiet alternatives to the desk,” explains UK based designer and stylist, Naheed Walait. Designing for health effects every design decision followed by a huge shift in urban infrastructure to support rather than degrade ecosystem health.
When it comes to colors – 2020 design trends are all about tones that inspires calm, confidence and connection. And although the Pantone color of the year, Classic Blue, embraces cool tones, there is also another pattern emerging, earth tones such as olive green, yellow ochre, and burnt orange. They are shades that not only bring warmth but also a connection to the great outdoors as well.
As for furniture and accessories – pieces that the mimic natural elements of wood, plants, and metals offer an opportunity to create a calming environment which can make you feel as though you are outside. Look out for free-form designs that invite the tranquil energy of nature into your home – Designs that emulate waves, circles, and curves offer a softness we crave.
Acclaimed design studio, Kashida, is just one brand that offers luxurious home décor and furniture in beautiful Arabic calligraphy that adds a Middle Eastern touch to contemporary pieces. Launched in 2011 by Lebanese co-founders Elie Abou Jamra and Mirna Hamady, the label transcends traditional manifestations of the beautiful letterforms by bringing them to life through bespoke, functional designs.
According to Palestinian Architect and Artist, Dima Srouji, good design can change culture and is immensely powerful. “Being surrounded by not only beautiful objects, but ones that can transform the way you live your life is an incredible expression of the power of design. Designed objects on one hand can solve problems, but on the other, they can have an emotional effect on the user. Good design can also change cultures.”
Other trends when it comes to soft furnishings and furniture include items in silver, gold, tin, and copper. To ensure your metals are not an overwhelming feature in your room, be careful with your combinations. When mixing warm (brass, gold, copper) and cool colored (aluminum, silver, stainless steel) metals, choose one dominant color and an accent one. Another tip is to avoid going beyond three different metals to mix.
When it comes to finishing touches – candles are always the best option for any space in your home. They add warmth and an air of peace. Lava – a bespoke, Emirati hand-crafted luxury candle line is just one brand that offers scents that are as divine as the packaging.
“Creating a timeless space means not just paying attention to what is happening around you in terms of design trends. Working from a passion and a focus on materials, tones, textures, and inspiration from your own interests and experiences rather than someone else’s is what matters…” concludes Srouji.
The first Australian English speaking News Anchor in the Middle East. She is also the Author of Faces of the Middle East and Founder of US-based 501c3 charity – The House of Rest which helps to ease the suffering of victims of war. For more from our Contributing Editor, you can follow her on Instagram, here.
