Yep, you read that right. If you’re like me, September is the real start of the year. The kids are back in school, the garden is done blooming, it’s time to grab a venti PSL, and clean the sand out of the carpets! 

For us in the design world, it’s also time to look forward to the trends and styles that will get us all warm and cozy during the winter months. This year, inspiration comes from the runways (as always) but also from our renewed excitement at being able to gather with friends and family IRL. No longer hiding behind our screen’s blurred background and having finally changed out of our “business up top – pajama on the bottom” outfits, we are ready for our spaces to be both comfortable and beautiful. 

Velvet

Velvet never goes away. Rather, it gets a facelift every now and then…and this year is no different. Coming full circle from its 1970’s glory days, this iteration of velvet is crushed and coming back strong into our interiors. Mostly seen on sofas and chairs, toss cushions, bedding and even wallpaper won’t be left out of this party. 

Leather

Leather is a no-brainer as the quintessential fireside chair, but this Fall it will be used on a smaller scale. We’ve seen hints of it on cabinet hardware but look for it in lighting and side tables. Use it to balance and ground spaces full of plush, textural fabrics.

Matte Finishes

There’s always a place for some bling, but Matte is having a serious minute in the spotlight. Gone are the days of faucets that gleam from across the room (and show every spot of water or fingerprint). The new matte finishes are user-friendly, but also offer an added layer of texture that screams refinement and effortless elegance. Brushed nickel is a veteran in this space, with brass, gold, white and black being the new kids on the block. You don’t have to stick to one – mixing 2 finishes (matte gold and black is my fav!) in a purposeful manner will add depth to your design and space. 

Painted Millwork

We know it’s custom, no need to scream it by leaving it natural or white! Painted millwork is everywhere and it’s even better when done in a deep, warm hue…it feels like the room is giving you a hug. Much like continuing the paint color onto a ceiling, painting out the millwork in a room takes away hard edges and somehow opens up the space while increasing the cozy factor. Although it seems counterintuitive, it also showcases the details of the millwork beautifully!

The Power of Color

As Mid-Century Modern style settles in for the long-run, so is its color palette. After putting away our palm and seaside inspired hues of summer, get ready to pull out deep greens, luscious cranberries, and warm ochres. With its deep tones, this palette can be used as a grounding neutral and plays well with warm whites and darker blues. 

Written by: Nathalie Auger

JN Vanguard Design