As the new year rolls in, do ensure that your home remains en vogue, as 2011 has brought with it an eclectic set of fads and fashions. Some are dramatically new trends, while others are scented with the nostalgia of trends from the yesteryears. Yet others are derivatives of styles that picked up in 2010.
Indoors merge with the outdoors>>
Come 2011, the outdoors will merge with your living spaces. Patios and rooms that open into the outdoors typify this trend. "The trend is all about embracing the outdoors; having your living space reflect and interact with nature. Hence, we will see terraces, sky roofs, balconies and the like being incorporated into designs. Natural light and gentle winds pour into the home. Rough and natural tiling, natural and unpolished wood, indoor plants, bench-like seating arrangements further exemplify this trend," explains architect Rustom Mehta. Even homes that do not have the luxury of a large terrace area can welcome nature indoors. Don't underestimate the power of carefully gardened potted plants, a centrepiece arrangement with acorns and some earthen bric-a-brac.
Personal and personalised>>
Essentially, the overriding mood of the year is carefree, individualistic and eclectic. The stress is on home décor that reflects the identity of its residents. A home that is lovingly pieced together and tells a story and not mass produced in a furniture store or a magazine. Personalised furniture is making waves, as homemakers are opting for a décor that describes their identity. The living space is an active reflection of their lives, an extension of their personality and they will have it no other way.
Larger than life>>
Installation art is coming of age. Dramatic and engaging, it is not merely confined to the canvas. "Clients are very sophisticated and are looking for something different in their living and working spaces," says Nandini Singh, owner of a Gallery Studio. Adds Tushar Jiwrajka of another Art Gallery, "As people are building larger homes, installation art is increasingly finding takers. Essentially, installation art has a personality of its own. The power of three dimension makes it an engaging and evocative form of art." Installation artwork is finding favour among homemakers who want to make a statement. Suddenly, art is no longer just an aesthetic element to be hung on a wall. It can be a living, engaging element of the décor and a wonderful conversation starter as well!
Colour coded>>
2011 is a year of hope and optimism. Hence, bold and bright colours are in vogue. Your walls are asking for a surprise - citrus yellow is the colour of the season. Purple and its various hues are in fashion too. "Wine goes well with a vintage décor, lilac is funky. Also, don't underestimate the power of the humble gray. It can be matched with creamy whites and taupe to create a sophisticated, urban chic effect," shares Malhotra. If you're looking for a slightly wilder décor, orange is the right choice. High intensity warm colours like rust and vermillion can give your house a comforting, homely atmosphere, far from the troubles of the city.
Mix and match>>
A perfectly matching décor is old news, 2011 is all about the eclectic! Team a vintage sofa with starling pink cushions; a simple wooden dining table with lace trimmings and your heirloom crockery. "There is a certain joy in teaming things that are not supposed to be placed together. The result is unexpected and exciting. Put together elements of contrasting yet complementing styles and watch the magic unfold. Play with colours, textures and patterns," suggests interior decorator Apeksha Malhotra. 2011 is all about not sticking to the script and celebrating your individuality.
Touch and feel>>
Think tactility, as textures and patterns take precedence in 2011. The rough texture of exposed brick walls, softened by sheer curtains or an uneven wooden flooring set off by a soft rugtextures can be dramatic and interesting. 2011 is the year of carpets as well. Dig out those heirloom Persian masterpieces! Woven carpets could also work well. Heavy metallic textures are another option. Industrial design-inspired furniture caught on in 2010, and remains popular.
Return to the roots>>
Globalisation may be a buzzword of sorts, but home décor trends are moving in the opposite direction. The trend is towards the local and indigenous. "This is a trend that has come a full circle. From looking overseas for inspiration, homemakers have come back to their backyards. The economic meltdown rubbed some glamour off all things foreign. A local pride has developed," says decorator and space manager Megha Golatkar. Traditional Indian craft styles, for example, are finding favour. Madhubani paintings are scoring over modern art. Even local elements of popular culture are being incorporated into homes-such as the typical 'cutting chai' glasses or Bollywood film posters.
Gaga over green>>
Being environmentally friendly is not just a trend, it seems to have become a way of life. 2011 continues this 'Go Green' march. "Homes are being designed to leverage natural cooling and lighting, hence minimising energy usage. Homemakers are doing their part by adopting energy efficient gadgets like automatic dimmers, CFL bulbs or showcasing artwork made of recycled elements. The gesture needn't be exceptionally grand - simply opting for biodegradable pillows is enough. Furniture made of sustainable yet aesthetic materials like bamboo, cork and recycled metal parts are also catching on. "Bamboo furniture is creating waves on the home design scene for its eco-friendly constitution. However, although it looks classy, it is not for the financially faint. A coffee table, for example, could set you back by almost Rs 28,000." Cane and wicker are also good alternatives. "Wicker caught on towards the end of 2010, and continues to be popular in the new year. It is low on maintenance, low fuss, and creates a comfortable, warm ambience," shares Anurag Mansukhani, a dealer in furniture options.
Old is gold>>
The vintage décor has made a comeback in 2011. "This year's vintage trend emphasises functionality as well. Antiques can be difficult to maintain; the modern vintage décor accounts for this. Chandeliers can instantly add drama and elegance to a living room. Vintage wallpaper can be an interesting option. Framing old photographs, especially in black-and-white can work magic," suggests Mehta. Remember, that trends may come and go but style is eternal!
