Where has the year gone? 2018 is flying past and it’s already time to look at the colours and trends we will be swooning over in 2019. Here’s what we know so far…

1. SING A RAINBOW

If you spend any time on Pinterest lusting over interiors (oh hiiiii, everyone!), you will know that the ever-influential Pantone has just released two colour palettes we will be craving in 2019. While Ultra Violet is still going strong, they are predicting the colours of 2019 for home and design will be inspired by focus, "because of the infinite choices of our time and the need to hone in on those that capture roving eyes, PANTONEVIEW home + interiors 2019 is a color roadmap that is focused on the colors that are leading the way towards a diverse, imaginative future." The very first palette ‘Cravings’ is inspired by food and is all rich reds, flamingo orange and rich purples, held down at the neutrals end by rich warm browns. ‘Classico’, as the name implies, is a collection of fundamental and everlasting colours that includes rich teal, grey flannel, rich gold and apricot. Meanwhile, Night Watch has already been named paint colour of the year by a popular US-based paint company. It’s a deep, jade-like green that has strong references to nature, which feeds into some of the broader trends around calmness, tech-free spaces and nature.

2. ART DECO – THE NEW MID CENTURY MODERNISM?

With Mid Century Modern well and truly entrenched in our interiors loving hearts, the hunt is on for the Next Big Thing. Increasingly, people who know about these things think Art Deco has spent enough time waiting in the wings and will step out to take centre stage in 2019. As one of the most inspiring, opulent and glamorous periods in design history, hints of Art Deco are popping up in detailing on tables, chairs, lighting and the mixed metals trend also gives a nod to the style. And let’s face it, we all love a touch of glamour, don’t we?

3. MATT BLACK IS THE NEW GREY

Nothing creates a sense of drama better than black. Expect to see bold, high-contrast designs all over your Instagram feeds in 2019, as matt black moves from fashion and beauty into homewares and interiors. Lighting, seating, décor objects and sideboards are all key pieces you can introduce to reference the trend. This one is likely to be with us for a long time, as well as a good time.

4. SUSTAINABLE AND NATURAL FABRICS

Across homes, sustainable and natural fabrics are going to be a key trend that will hit the mainstream in 2019. Look for it in upholstered furniture, throws, cushions and tapestries, which are also getting some attention as a potential micro-trend to keep an eye on. The movement towards natural fabrics speaks to the broader conversations across design right now that is all about embracing a peaceful retreat from crazy, modern life. The good news is the embrace of natural textiles will work across so many styles and looks, from Hamptons, to boho, to French country, to Scandi, and just about every other style in between.

5. LESS IS MORE – MINIMALISM AND CLEAN LINES - ESPECIALLY IN THE KITCHEN

As minimalism continues to blaze a clutter-free path through the interiors world, it is creating a demand for clean lines and a sense of openness across the whole house. In the kitchen, this is taking shape through a no upper cabinet trend. If the idea of less storage in the kitchen has you panicking quietly (or loudly) inside, a popular option in future-proof kitchen remodels is to include an armoire. Staying in the kitchen, bold colours on both appliances and cabinetry is another trend coming to a kitchen renovation near you.

6. BAR CARTS

Bar carts have been hot in 2018 and they’re not going anywhere in 2019. What’s to love about a bar cart? Everything! Nothing says Mid-Century (or will it be Art Deco?) glamour like a bar cart. If you like entertaining and mixing the odd cocktail, a bar cart lets you take the elegance – and the party – anywhere in your home for maximum versatility. It’s also the perfect place to store treasured glassware, bottles and create themed vignettes.

7. HYGGE WILL CONTINUE

In one form or another Reflecting the need for a calm, cosy retreat and an overall focus on wellbeing led to Hygge being a major trend over the past few years. And although there have been predictions for the emergence of new trends based on ideas around moderation, wellness and cosiness such as còsagach (Scotland) and Lagom (Sweden), nothing has been able to halt the gentle onward march on Hygge. At this stage, it looks here to stay, in one form or another in 2019.

8. GOLD, GOLD AND MORE GOLD

This metallic finish has had a revamp and it is predicted that it is going to come at us in a major way in 2019. With finishes covering gold patinas, black gold and bright golds being paired with raw natural finishes and high-end appliances, gold has never looked so good.

9. GO GREEN

Will indoor plants ever go out of style? Nope. Big things are predicted for the Pilea peperomioides (middle image), the Chinese Money plant, as well as plants with patterned leaves are about to become a big hit. If you don’t have confidence in your green thumbs, a high-quality artificial plant is the answer. These days artificial plants are indistinguishable from the real thing and beyond a casual dusting require absolutely no gardening skills at all.

10. YOUR PERSONAL TOUCH

Trends are inspiring and act as a guide when you are about to decorate or update a space, but the most important design expert you can ever bring on board to a project is… you! Decorate your space with the things that are valuable to you, remind you of good times or are just beautiful to you. Trust yourself and enjoy the space you create!