5 Designers Predict the Biggest Decor Trends of 2020

Terrazzo, Gen-Z yellow, velvet everything—2019 gave us a lot to work with in the decorating department. Some of these trends will undoubtedly endure into the next decade, while others are already being retired in favor of the everlasting hunt for newness.

While we’re looking back, interior designers are already thinking ahead: What’s exciting in design right now? Which paint colors are gaining traction? What silhouette has become ubiquitous? Here’s what five industry insiders had to say about what’s in (and what’s out) for 2020:

Robert McKinley, founder of Studio Robert McKinley

What’s in: The Memphis movement There are no signs it slowing down! I’ve seen a lot of inventory with vintage dealers and it’s everywhere on Instagram. Memphis is avant-garde and radical, so I’m excited to see how it continues to infiltrate across the design world—from high to low—to the masses.

What’s out: Arches The shape has been prevalent for the past four years and I’m ready to move on.

Justin Capuco and Brittney Hart, cofounders of Husband Wife

What’s in: High-gloss paints We’re excited about using high-gloss paints and subtle textures in neutral tones. It’s a way to add brightness, richness, and mood that doesn’t weigh down or dominate a space. We featured this a lot in a recent residential project in Dumbo, Brooklyn.

What’s out: Chandigarh chairs (real and faux) The early Pierre Jeanneret chairs seem to be the most ubiquitous—and knocked-off—furniture items of the moment. Though we love his work and completely understand the approachable nature of these designs, there are so many other incredible designers to choose from out there.

Tali Roth, interior designer

What’s in: Old English style I am loving what I’m seeing in terms of old English style. Lots of prints-on-prints, matching upholstery to window treatments and wallpaper…it feels so warm and nostalgic, and it’s a real feast for the eye.

What’s out: Perfection The perfectly appointed interior is coming to an end. It feels “done,” and there isn’t enough uniqueness in that. People want to see completely original spaces, and I think that lends itself to messy and crazy.

Hilary Matt, interior designer

What’s in: Textured finishes The trend I am most excited for 2020 is textured paint (like plaster), a great way to add a subtle dimension to walls without using wallpaper. It’s something I already use a lot and look forward to doing more with.

What’s out: All-gray palettes I am getting sick of all-gray rooms. They’re too monotone, in my opinion. Gray always needs to be mixed with white or a pop of color.

Haley Weidenbaum, founder of Everhem

What’s in: Allover color No longer do walls have to be one color and the trim and ceiling white. Painting a space a single, cohesive hue is bold and daring, but it also makes a room feel inviting and custom. I love how it allows people to rethink the rules and be pleasantly surprised with the outcome.

What’s out: Mud-cloth textiles The market has been saturated with a lot of bad options. I love the idea of introducing pattern on pillows, but try to steer away from this material.

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