10 interior design trends to kick off 2023

Soft edges, acrylic, tropical prints and indigo are among the hot looks.

By Cathy Hobbs

Tribune News Service
January 3, 2023 at 6:29PM
A triptych featuring indigo as its primary color takes center stage in this dining space. (Scott Gabriel Morris/Provided photo/TNS)
A triptych featuring indigo as its primary color takes center stage in this dining space. (Scott Gabriel Morris, TNS/The Minnesota Star Tribune)

What's new? What's next? When it comes to interior design trends, the answer is a myriad of timeless trends, as well as a number of new ones.

Curious? Here's a guide of what to look out for.

1. Round lines and soft edges

Rounded arms and chunky furniture are on trend in upholstery and even tables.

2. Acrylic and resin

As far as transparent surfaces go, acrylic and resin are being infused into a number of modern furniture selections.

A large tropical leaf art piece is an on trend, but timeless, art selection. (Provided photo/TNS)
A large tropical leaf art piece is an on trend, but timeless, art selection. (TNS/The Minnesota Star Tribune)

3. Tropical prints

Big leaves are in. Look for palms and tropical leaves, from greenery to artwork.

Pastel pink and round furniture elements fill this elegant living space. (Provided photo/TNS)
Pastel pink and round furniture elements fill this elegant living space. (TNS/The Minnesota Star Tribune)

4. Pastel

No longer considered feminine or old-fashioned, pastel color palettes are current and soothing.

Using mirrors especially in a series is an easy and affordable way to create instant wall decor that is sophisticated at the same time. (Design Recipes, TNS/The Minnesota Star Tribune)

5. Mirrors

Looking for a budget-friendly alternative to artwork? Consider mirrors. Hang them in groupings for an impactful look.

6. Indigo

Indigo remains a modern alternative to black. Use this rich color as a primary color in a room or as an accent.

7. Wallpaper

Cue the 1970s music. Wallpaper was in, then out, and now it is certainly back in. Wallpaper is a way to add texture, color and pattern to nearly any space.

Black-and-white artwork adds a bold, modern edge to a hallway. (Scott Gabriel Morris/Provided photo/TNS)
Black-and-white artwork adds a bold, modern edge to a hallway. (Scott Gabriel Morris, TNS/The Minnesota Star Tribune)

8. Black and white

One of the most timeless color palettes remains on trend.

9. Faux fur

From accent pillows to accent furniture, faux fur is a way to add texture and glamour.

Wood and wood elements add an organic element to this living space. (Scott Gabriel Morris/Provided photo/TNS)
Wood and wood elements add an organic element to this living space. (Scott Gabriel Morris, TNS/The Minnesota Star Tribune)

10. Wood

From slab tables to accent furniture, wood can infuse an organic and natural element.

Cathy Hobbs, based in New York City, is an Emmy Award-winning television host and a nationally known interior design and home staging expert.

about the writer

about the writer

Cathy Hobbs