DESIGNERS ON NEW TRENDS
Concept For Living article with contribution from Ashley Interiors

In considering the question of the future trends for 2002 we have had to firstly revisit our central philosophy in design concepts in order to evaluate our response. In fashion design it is the commercial bodies in the industry that through the use of high profile models wearing their designs that set the trends in the high street. The people generally engage in this process and in an attempt to mirror those models, purchase the latest fashions. Where the style of the home is concerned there tends to be much less scope for high profile designs to be highlighted to the public’s delight. People still very much work from an individualist perspective but may be stimulated by ideas drawn from magazines or design programmes, etc. Therefore when discussing trends we must be aware that changes in interior design are sometimes just as much led by the public as by marketing strategies. It could certainly be argued that where colour and texture are concerned the fashion industry in the past has had a strong influence in design within the home. From the 50’s through to the 80’s, colours, textures and patterns tended to mirror those of the fashion industry. Within the last 10 years there has been enormous growth in the interest shown by the public in the design of their homes and gardens. Consequently the home design industry has an identity and force of its own and increasingly relies to a lesser degree on external influences like fashion design. For 2002 we envisage the continuation in the demand for neutral light colours which complement the general reduction in people’s living space. We consider neutral textures to be growing in influence throughout the home, with a revamping of the traditional 1960’s styles and textures, such as circular and square patterns, which are prevalent in wallpapers and other fabrics.

It is inevitable that as we go further into the 21st century, the influence of technology within the home will increase in importance. People are demanding ever more from the gadgets in their homes and expect them to offer increased functionality and control, together with a stronger focus on style and design in order for them to be harmonised into the overall design concept of the home. Examples of these innovations can be seen in the futuristic design of radiatiors and cookers and the new fridge-freezer with multimedia and Internet access built in.

Lighting is becoming increasingly important within the overall design of people’s homes especially in kitchens and bathrooms where the innovative and clever use can transform these spaces from functional purpose into a highlighted design feature.

For 2002 therefore we would suggest that you focus primarily upon the most important trend, which is the ever evolving change in your own tastes and values, rather than upon any external design concepts that may be forced upon you. Reflect upon the space that you are living in and how appropriate your designs are for the space. Take your time before deciding and gain confidence and ideas from relevant magazines and programmes on interior design. What you will hopefully end up with is a comfortable home that reflects your own unique style and individuality.