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Top 4 Interior Design Trends of 2017

In 2017, interior design trends have brought us a lot to love. From the rise of texture and geometric patterns to an abundance of natural colors, raw materials, and meticulously handcrafted accessories, we’re thrilled about the sophisticated and luxurious interior design trends sweeping the country. 

1. Texture everywhere
This year is shaping up to be the year of texture, with designers playing to both our visual and tactile senses with a mix of interesting fabrics. Think luxurious plush materials, quilted pieces, comfy cotton with creative pleats and folds, huge stitches of soft yarn, and then ethereal, breezy linens sparingly mixed in for contrast. Chunky wool and even area shag rugs have reentered the design scene, lending a touch of warmth and textures to otherwise bare floors. Of this year’s most popular textures, velvet appears to be the most common, appearing on furniture, pillows, and even headboards. It all seems related to a larger trend of comfort, giving homeowners a sense of calm and restfulness away from the chaos of the outside world.

2. A return to nature
The 2017 Pantone color of the year was Greenery, and this interest in the outside world has developed into one of the most popular 2017 interior design trends. Gorgeous dark green and deep jewel tones are stealing the show, but designers are also incorporating earthy browns, warm terracottas, and even pastels into the palette. Meanwhile, high-shine and glossy, flawless finishes are out, replaced with more matte, raw finishes. Balanced with some dark metallic and white details, interior designs are heavily showcasing natural materials like dark stone, wood, clay, and cork. For example, a bathroom accent wall may consist of matte terracotta tiles, or a home office wall be clad entirely in cork. 

3. Custom artisanal pieces over DIY
Another of the top 2017 interior design trends involves incorporating more one-of-a-kind artisan pieces into spaces, especially when it comes to accessories. The demand for craftsmanship is on the rise, along with the materials that require a high level of skills to work with and manipulate. When it comes to decor, expect an increase in the popularity of glassblowing, woodworking, and handmade ceramics—with collections including pieces that are old as well as new, and purchased domestically or while traveling abroad. For furniture too, homeowners are beginning to place greater value on investing in high-quality, well made pieces.

4.  Geometric designs on wallpaper and beyond
Geometric prints—simple lines, stripes, triangles—are taking over this year’s wallpaper and fabrics. In particular, patterned wallpaper can go far to add color and texture, livening up any drab interior. Many of these statement patterns are reminiscent of Art Deco, while others have a modern take on ancient cultures. The trend toward geometry is also influencing furniture and accessories, resulting in sleeker, angular feature pieces for your interior.

Ready to create your own interior design trends? 
At The Art Institute of Pittsburgh - Online Division, our online Interior Design programs provide a flexible way to acquire the technical knowledge, skills, and training you need to design safe, accessible, sustainable, and attractive spaces where people can live, work, and play. Learn more and explore our programs today!