Here’s your guide to the interior design ‘ins’ and ‘outs’ for 2024

From quartzites and statement stones to the simple authenticity of Wabi-Sabi style, 2024 is ushering in a new season of interior design trends. Having dedicated years of her life to mastering the art of interior design, Ann King — principal of Sydney-based studio Ann King Design — is an expert on the nuances of trend cycles and the way they inform our design decisions. ArchiPro caught up with King for her insight on this year’s interior design trends, covering the materials, colours, and styles she predicts will be ‘in’ and ‘out’ for 2024.

What’s in for 2024?

As the first country in the world to announce a ban on engineered stone due to the increase in workers developing silicosis, the Australian design industry will be searching for a different way to achieve stone looks. “Quartzites and statement stones are definitely in,” King says, a result of the aforementioned ban. “I think we will see a more interesting way to work with quartzites and granites, as well as combinations of these stones with plain porcelain. Colour in these materials, and the veining possibilities, create interesting focal points in bathroom, kitchen, and flooring applications.”

Style-wise, King mentions the Japanese lifestyle and design philosophy, Wabi-Sabi. Defined as the practice of embracing the beauty in imperfections and the transience of life, Australian designers have long enjoyed exploring this design approach in interiors. 

“Wabi-Sabi has never really been out of style and continues to be seen with an Australian twist. The approach of finding joy and beauty in the irregularity of a tumbled stone or the beauty of handmade objects and craftsmanship is still apparent. Designers engage with artistic trades who can create textured wall finishes and timber details in our built design, eg. walls that use frescos and microcement or carpenters who can create interesting wall panelling,” King explains.  

She also predicts an increase in patterned floors, either using tile or timber to add visual texture. Using patterns with subtle colour variations is of particular interest to King, adding that, with the right colour and pattern, you can create a timeless appeal and add design interest to any room. In the same vein, large murals and extensive gallery walls are another way King expects designers will add depth and visual interest to their spaces this year. 

Colour-wise, King says people need to feel grounded, so are likely to opt for warm wood tones and palettes of green. “We will continue to look to nature and our surroundings as society is still adjusting to a new normal after COVID-19. A nurturing palette that inspires easy living and relaxation is key. Used with other soft materials, a colour palette promoting softness and harmony will have a restorative effect for society as we navigate our way through wellness and living with viruses.”

Recent emerging trends show a growing interest in the way materials are combined in a space to create texture. “Combining materials in interesting ways will be key to design this year. For example, pairing wooden headboards with soft linens and textured wallpaper or frescoes in the bedroom. Or, specifying concrete or tile flooring with wood wall panelling.” 

“Another trend on the rise is the use of white as the base colour, not just in paint but in rugs, sofas, and fabrics, too. This approach brings the material textures to the fore and leaves space for interesting art and feature lighting,” King says.

What’s out for 2024?

While the departure of engineered stone is a given, King mentions another material she expects to see less of is boucle fabrics. “We will be working with more fabrics that have interesting basket weaves and weight,” she says. Wicker furniture will also be less prominent as people opt for more solid wood pieces and warmer tones. 

In terms of colours, King predicts bright, high-chroma yellows and oranges will be out, with favour falling on those with more richness and depth, like garnet reds, deep purples, and moody charcoals. “I’m also seeing a move away from stark whites as people choose more harmonious whites that don’t contrast as much with other colours.”

Over the last few years, we’ve seen a rejection of all-white bathrooms and shiny bathroom surfaces. While white may be popular in other areas of the home, designers and homeowners are choosing coloured stones, paints, tiles, and bathroomware to express personality. With this trend, there has also been an increase in textured glass shower screens, a material King says will be less prominent this year. 

Playing with trends can be a great way to inject a breath of fresh air into a tired space, or discover new colours, styles, and materials you may have previously looked over.

If you’re planning a building or renovation project, get in touch with the team at Ann King Design for their expert advice.