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Our Crystal Ball:
Interior Design Predictions for 2010
The inspiration for this month's article is a little off the beaten path. We know you have already seen numerous posts and publications on must-haves for the New Year. And, while this composition offers similar information, the source of the skinny is a little something new.
You see, we just recently introduced a bewitching new addition to our inventory. Global Views has presented their "Fortune Teller" sconce (below), and its beauty stirs all kinds of allure and enchantment in the minds of the designers here. So, we have decided to look to the crystal ball in this captivating sconce for the future of our industry.
Our crystal ball has referenced some inside scoop from revered international interior designer officials, as well as some other savvy soothsayers in the field. But we also have it on good authority that the crystal ball has forecasted our interior design future by also researching the runway. You have heard us opine in articles past on the almost infallible predictor that runway fashion is of home décor. But, maybe now more than ever, we are going to see some pretty literal translations of catwalk cultus to room rage. At least that's what the wall-hung clairvoyance is telling us.
Techno-logical Allure
It's a difficult chore to ignore the omnipresence of technology in our 21st century lives. Everywhere you turn, there it is. Be it your auto's navigation system or the grocery store check-out line, almost every component of our daily routine is now digital.
But, before your imaginations head directly to Jane Jetson's Turbo Toaster and floating TV, allow me to explain how we see a contemporary application of technology's influence on interior design is unfolding.
Today's interpretation of technology in design is a more subtle approach to translating the lines and colors of industrial science. Shades of muted silvers and metallic neutrals will be seen with charged shades of copper and platinum. A "futuristic" flare, only slightly reminiscent of this attempt in the 50's, will appear in fabrics, such as sturdier weaves that have been brushed with hints of sheen, as well as in layering of diaphanous textiles in mineral hues.
Furniture and hardware will also read of this applied science influence, as seen in the ensemble and the kitchen below.
 
3.1 Philip Lim Spring 2010 Ready to Wear JEI kitchen project
Rustic Revisited
Rustic was all the rage a couple of decades ago, and it's still an appealing motif in the right space. But soon, we'll be exposed to rustic interiors like you have not seen before, with an emphasis on sleeker rural elements. Accents of chunky wool, tweed and flannel can now accompany cleaner lines and colors. Even denim, yes denim, is back with the appropriate accompaniment. And quilted fabrics on walls and accent pillows will marry beautifully with an otherwise non-pastoral ambience.
The color rust, itself, makes a reemergence, as well as does some other saturated neutrals, such as pewter and taupe. Even teal is on tour again, being balanced by thicker, earthy fabrics and wall coverings. This motif is also using herringbone and waffle patterns with supple embellishments.
In the fashion statements below, you will find that rustic can be chic. High style is not just for shimmer and sheen anymore.
William Rast Fall 2009 Ready to Wear JEI living room project
The New Natural
The minimalistic "natural" of the last decade has metamorphosed into an organic design that speaks of elegance and a touch of whimsy. Fabrics are fluid instead of stiff, and colors will be more similar to vegetation that of sand and soil. Rich, mossy greens can be paired with aqueous crepes, gauze and tulle. This pure look has matured to romantic.
A.F. Vandevorst Spring 2010 Ready to Wear Conrad Shades (purchase through JEI)
Southern Style
Nope, not the South you're thinking. Think a litter further below the equator. Today's Southern is South America. Specifically Brazil, whose cultural depth is spreading quickly into our fashions industries. Centuries of music, language, art and cuisine are all numbers in the equation that has yielded Brazil's design influence. Spicy colors that "dance" and woven fabrics that are "delicious" combine to create an ambience that combines dry with wet and rustic with fresh.
Base colors are clay and cactus with chili pepper reds and greens for oomph. Artisan textiles, such as lace and embroidery appear here, too.
 
Alexandre Herchcovitch Spring 2010 Ready to Wear UXUA Casa Hotel in Brazil
Back to Basics
History, as well as studies on trends, has shown us that when the economy suffers in our country, fashion, both in attire and interior design, returns to a more traditional persuasion. It is human nature to wish to revisit memories of the past in times of environmental stress.
This temperament typically means that we begin to crave again the creature comforts of traditional surroundings. Thus, this year, our instincts may drive our interior nesting, and we will ditch the contemporary for the comfy. Even a resurgence of "Contemporary Americana" with a twist will be popping up all over this year. Remember you heard it here first!
 
Ralph Lauren Blue Label Cowtan & Tout Castello fabric
If you would like to chat with someone from the team at JEI about any of the projects discussed here, or concerning other available options, email Julie at Julie@julieevans.net.
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