Every year the design industry comes out lists of what is in and out for the coming year. This year, I wanted to provide a little spin on the usually decor heavy articles by adding in what I believe to be key elements to a strong home design.

For the majority of people, when the word “design” is used most people think about the pretty final product. Pristine spaces that photograph beautifully. I’m here to tell you “design” has far more depth to it.

So let’s dive in.

Decor Trends

I define decor as setting the stage of any given space. It’s the furnishing, decorations and elements inside the four walls of a room. When a space is executed well it can elicit emotion, make you feel all the feels. Here are the five decor trends making a strong presence in 2023.

Moody spaces: think dark and mysterious. Rich fabrics, dark tones paired with textured fabrics(hello velvet) and layered lighting bring all the feels.
Decade themes: think that 70’s show. Big celebs like Harry Styles and Taylor Swift have created new interest in this style. Bold patterns, bright colors, low profile furniture all bring nostalgia.
Vintage finds: old is new again. Time to hit up your local consignment and join in the hunt for pre-loved quality pieces. Find that rare gem that makes your heart sing and your space feel truly your own.
Pops of color: be bold and show some personality. Paprika & Marigold are larger than life colors that will be on repeat. If it scares you to add lots of color, know you aren’t alone. Start small with an accent pillow, rug or throw in a bold palette and see how that feels first.
Bring the outside in: plants, plants and more plants. This trend started a few years back and I attribute it to the pandemic. Many of us picked up new hobbies such as tending plants which has brought immense joy. Something every space can use a little bit of.

Form follows Function Trends

Form follows function is a design principle that many have adopted as the basis for quality designed spaces. Simply put, form is the shape that a space takes based on the intended function. Here are the five form and function trends clients are requesting in 2023.

Butler pantries or second kitchen spaces: these range from a space to hide the smaller everyday use items(coffee, toaster, dry goods) to full working kitchens with prep sink, dishwasher and second oven.
Arches to frame space: well thought out placement of arches can create those special moments every home deserves. Think about accentuating hallways with a transitional archway or highlight those special spots like built-in cabinets or bench seats with a soft arch.
Multipurpose rooms: one of my favorite ways to keep square footage down is to think about which rooms can provide dual function. Some popular combination are office and guest room, music room and family room, craft room and kids play area.
Natural light: you can never go wrong keeping natural light on the list. Thinking about the intentional placement of windows to how the space needs to feel is critical for comfort. For example, in our cold climate making the windows too large can actually create too cold of a space so think about that when sizing those windows.
Defined rooms: the days of the open concept plan are dwindling. More and more, people want to be able to have defined spaces with specific functions with sight lines but not a vast open expanse where all the activities are happening in one zone.

Building Construction Trends

Building construction trends are often thought of as an add or after thought after the design is completed. Taking the time to look at the home as an entire system is a crucial step that puts more emphasis on systems earlier in the design. Here are the five building construction trends on people's minds for 2023.

Energy Efficiency: the draw to Net Zero Ready Homes in anticipation of the new versions of the National Building Code coming into play are having an effect on design conversations. Monies are available to many to access funding for deep energy retrofits.
Alternative building materials: with the cost of traditional materials on the rise year over year Builders are looking to find alternative building materials. Some popular items are selections like ICF (insulated Concrete Foundation), SIP (Standard Insulating Panels), ICE panel (Insulated Composite Envelope),
Integrated Design Processes: this may be a new term but it is simple in concept. Have everyone in the room while front loading the design process. Meaning, everyone has a voice at the table and you look for overall solutions to get the best end result for the client.
Smart connected homes: operating everything from your phone is becoming more and more common. Thermostats, lights, home automation - you name it, there is an app to that.
Total cost of home ownership: no longer are builders looking at just the cost to build but starting to weigh out the cost to operate for their clients. It’s a step into adopting the new codes and the trajectory that codes are taking in Canada to also include factors like embodied and operational carbon.

When given the proper attention, a home can fit the needs of each family on multiple levels. My needs are not yours and vice versa. We all deserve to take up the space we need to live our best lives. A well designed home can do just that.

Professional Builder highlight

One of my hopes for 2023 is to introduce you all to the amazing business women I have the privilege and pleasure to work with. I’ve collaborated with Emily, Jackie and Sheena on more projects than I can count. Fifteen years. Seriously, time flies when you are having this much fun!

Each woman has carved a path for themselves in an industry that hasn’t always been welcoming. I recall a few stories about jobsite prejudice during our years together but to no one’s surprise, each of these women are knocking it out of the park.

Here’s what I asked Emily, Jackie and Sheena…

What design trend needs to go in 2023? What is a trend you see gaining steam?