5 Interior Design trends for 2023

Interior design as a discipline is in perpetual motion, constantly evolving and adapting to new materials, technologies and design philosophies.

And although this dynamism can switch last year’s trends to this year’s antiquities, trends tend to evolve rather than be disregarded completely, as designers look to build and develop their next set of ideas based on the foundations laid previously.

As we enter 2023, finding interior solutions that positively impact our wellbeing without negatively impacting our planet are surely top of everyone’s shopping list. BSBG’s new Head of Interior Design, Tom Skyring, talks us through that concern and more in our annual predictions for 5 interior trends for 2023.
 

1. Design for the planet

With an increasing focus on environmental sustainability, the use of eco-friendly materials is central to modern interior design approaches. Recycled and upcycled materials, as well as natural materials such as bamboo, cork, and linoleum, are being adopted with a view to reducing carbon footprint. “This is something we look very carefully at,” Tom explains. “We are now designing for a low environmental impact. From the choice of materials and products to energy efficiency and water reduction, there are many angles to this. It’s also vital to consider longevity, which means not only in terms of long-lasting quality, but also creating designs with a style that does not fatigue over time.”

Materials are evaluated in terms of environmental impact across the entirety of their lifecycle. With method of extraction, production and transportation each assessed as an indicator of impact. “Organic materials such as timber and natural stone are obvious choices,” Tom says. “We’re very conscious about the carbon footprint of the materials we select, as well as the potential for recycling at the end of their lifecycle.”
 

2. Quieter interiors with more subtle intensity

The trend from a few years ago, maximalism, is far from a one-year wonder. However, after a few years of loudness, stimulation and vibrancy, designers are exploring quieter options as we enter 2023.

“Our designs are often crafted as a response to social construct, technical advancements and global issues or trends, for example during the pandemic the idea was to create comfortable home work spaces, bringing more nature inside, but also focusing on health, hygiene and comfort,” Tom says. “Our response to what we’re witnessing now across the globe is to create something of a more relaxing, calm and cozy environment where the end-user is able to lounge in style. We want to set the mood of course, but there can be a tendency to overdo that notion, so the trick for 2023 will be to create an ambiance, without trying too hard in the process. After all, if one thing is timeless, it’s simplicity.”
 

3. A proclivity for open family spaces

With the introduction of open plan living, the formal segregated dining room, living room, or kitchen were consigned to the archives, and the trend for 2023 from an interior architecture standpoint is more focused on creating square foot that can be customised to preference, rather than predetermined and defined by the designer. “People want to create their own identity within their homes,” Tom explains. “This goes beyond the finishes and furnishing, to choosing the function of a space and its use. We find that the preference is that the majority of people don’t want formal spaces such as dining rooms any longer, it’s preferable to create open kitchens and family rooms that can be adapted according to preference.”
 

4. Spathrooms

With the increasing popularity of spas and wellness clinics, there was a sense of inevitability that people would seek to bring elements of spa ambiance to their own bathrooms at home. The ‘spathroom’, as spa-inspired bathrooms have been imaginatively appointed, are also driven by a growing preference for self-care at home.

Tom says: “There is a demand for spa-inspired spaces within the home, which exude balance, relaxation and indulgence. To create that spa feel, we rely on use of colour – predominantly whites or very light neutrals, combined with warmer textures and fabrics. Fixtures and fittings play an important role in the desire to create a spa ambiance, and we like the use of brass or copper, in particular, to achieve the look and feel.”

One final component of the spathroom styling is the incorporation of natural elements. “Plants have become a bathroom essential,” says Tom. “Not only do they deliver a wonderful bathroom aesthetic, while improving the air quality, they also bring life and vibrancy to an otherwise relatively sterile environment.”
 

5. F&B for Gen Z

The oldest members of Generation Z are now 23, and our last trend looks at the ways in which our hospitality and F&B design approach answers the needs of a younger breed more conscious of health and wellbeing, and with a proclivity for authenticity and appearance. “Creating F&B offerings that inspire Gen Z is one of our new challenges,” Tom says. “They’re a generation that craves unqiue and meaningful experiences. In many of our current design projects, which centre around hospitality and F&B, we are finding new ways to engage the next generation of diners through ambiance, themes and presentation.”

“Customer retention for restaurants has moved beyond the quality of food, service and wine. The rise of alcohol-free bars and restaurants or cafés that allow pets across Europe and the US is testament to the fact that patrons are now seeking inclusive experiences with more depth that don’t solely revolve around alcohol. Some of our areas of focus are on creating a welcoming sense of belonging, multi-sensory experiential dining, biophilic design and open concept kitchens. We’re also very conscious of incorporating spaces that cater for delivery options, which even for high-end establishments is an important revenue stream that has grown hugely in the post-covid era.”