Five sustainable interior trends that are timeless

Whilst we can’t all afford to keep up with every interior trend just because it’s the ‘in’ thing, many of us are changing the way we use our homes. The spaces inside need to be able to keep up. From makeshift offices to libraries, we’ve all had to make adjustments that have now become permanent features in our homes. 

There are lots of ways to keep our homes looking on trend – that don’t break the bank or seriously harm the environment. Keep reading as we discover how to make your new spaces feel like home. 

1. Warm, earthy tones 

We’re seeing a resurgence in lots of warm shades, such as creams and browns to complement other natural textures throughout our homes. The Dulux colour of the year for 2021, for example, has been named Brave Ground, which according to Dulux is, “a bolstering shade that connects back to nature and simple things”. We’re seeing an emphasis on minimalism, with a few statement furniture pieces taking centre stage. 

Since we’re utilising the spaces in our homes better, we’re reserving certain spaces to help us relax and unwind. These certain spaces should reflect the emotions we want to feel and calming warm tones can help us achieve this experience.

2. Colour block arches

Colour blocked arches are a great way to break up different spaces in a particularly small room or to separate spaces, for example in an open plan kitchen and living area. They add lots of character to a space that otherwise might go unnoticed or unused. 

The feature lies in a distinctive arch painted in a bold colour. They are often accompanied with complementary furniture or other decor. They also work well in hallways where you might place a console table or a mirror.

3. Period features

If you’re fortunate enough to have period features in your home, then you’re in luck. Painted fireplaces are taking over our social media feeds and we can’t get enough. The most popular colour choices have been darker or cooler tones, such as blacks and particularly Farrow and Ball’s hague blue. A bold colour choice can make for a real statement piece, particularly in a living room, where a fireplace is often the focal point of the room. And if you don’t have a fireplace, you could always give a vintage or second hand one a new home. 

4. Blended interiors 

In keeping with a minimalist theme, there’s something to be said about large furniture pieces. Radiators, for example are being ‘camouflaged’ using the same paint as the walls, so they are effectively hidden away. They can often be an eyesore and can distract from the theme in a space, so a simple lick of paint is enough to keep them in style. 

5. Granny chic

Whilst this doesn’t advocate stealing your granny’s living room decor, we are seeing old fashioned wallpaper prints coming back into style. We’re finding some that are great for complementing mid-century sofas and coffee tables. The most popular prints being ditsy floral prints that use beiges and pastels. This style is great for larger spaces where the wallpaper doesn’t make the room look too ‘busy’ or overcrowded.  

There are lots of ways to transform your home without breaking the bank and a bit of DIY can make all the difference. At Walsall College, we have a purpose built painting and decorating workshop and we work alongside the Dulux Academy to provide our students with the hands on experience they need for a career in the industry.

Apply now to secure your place for September.  See our Painting and Decorating courses.