If it’s one thing you can be sure of, trends never stand still.

Maximalism

Forget minimalism and its constraints. Make a move towards maximalism — one of the hottest styles in interior design.

A blend of historical design and colours, layers and textures, and mixed artwork allows the maximalist to create an interior that not only melds the patina of time with contemporary decor, but creates an interior that is vastly unique.

“Maximalism allows you to let your imagination loose,” says Rebecca Long, Resene Colour Expert. “The key here is to connect the dots and play close attention to design elements, such as repetition and shape, to build your scheme.”

Grounded Neutrals

Earthier, honest neutrals are right on trend. Choose a colour palette of earthy browns, tans, warm greys and greens — and especially terracotta.

“Terracotta is making a comeback and it isn't just limited to pots,” says Rebecca. “Pair a colour such as Resene Desperado with classic timber stains such as Resene Pitch Black and Resene Natural.”

Metallics

“Yes, we are still using metallic, but with an earthier twist,” says Interior Designer and Colour Consultant Debbie Abercrombie. “The mix of black and metallic, such as Resene Catch 22, is strong, elegant and very on trend. Though it is stylish enough to outstand trends too.”

Whether it’s stools, chairs, wall units and planters painted in metallic hues, or simple metallic touches added to handles and legs, picture frames, textiles and wallpaper — metallics are a versatile choice. Use metallics to glam up a room, or pair them with handcrafted ornaments, natural stone or exotic wood.

Daringly Dark

There is a definite shift to embracing darker hues inside, taking cosy to a new level. This isn’t an all black story; instead it focuses on dark colours with deep blues and greens and smoky charcoals, such as Resene Indian Ink and Resene Coast.

Dark walls ensure a space doesn’t feel empty. The deep backdrop enhances the greenery of plants and colours in artwork.

Botanicals

Designers are not ready to let go of botanicals just yet. Bold leafed plants are still being seen in homes, in particular ‘patterned’ plants with leaves bearing stripes or splotches. Forget maidenhair ferns; consider calathea, croton and dieffenbachia instead.

Nature’s green hues are prominent too. And people are also seeing the blues — from deep and dark to weathered blues. So easy to incorporate into a project, blues continue as a perennial favourite.

Statement Ceilings

2018 is looking up — at least, as far as ceilings go. Often referred to as the ‘fifth’ wall, whether people choose to paint it, wallpaper it, or apply interesting textures to it, decorating the ceiling is a striking way to revamp a room from top to bottom.

Darker colours create a cocooning effect by giving the perception that a ceiling is lower than it actually is. If concerned about ‘lowering’ the room height, avoid painting the edges of the ceiling, and bring the wall colour up over the cornices. Using a matte finish, such as Resene SpaceCote Flat, will accentuate the depth of darker colours.

Recycling

Using recycled materials and upcycled objects is not just a trend, it’s becoming a responsibility. The Circular Economy encourages recycling and reuse, so something ‘old’ can become ‘new’ again reducing waste and the need for new materials.

Paint, stain and clear finishes are a common pathway to repurposing and reuse. Old can easily become new by redecorating with a fresh new colour and finish. Coatings also have their role to play in extending the life of surfaces, well beyond what might be achieved if they were left bare.

Remember the Golden Colour Rule

When it comes to final choices, cherry pick favourites from the new trends while always remembering the golden colour rule: the palette must be designed for the users and owners of the space as it will continue to be theirs to enjoy long after the trends have evolved.