The year 2016 is mighty stylish, bringing back old, shabby chic trends seems as a popular theme. We are moving away from all-white interiors and focusing on affordability and reliance. As modern life gets busier, our homes have become sanctuaries, centered around simplicity and serenity, allowing us to switch off and detox. Warm but calming colors are complemented by natural textures and soft shapes. Take a look at some of the design trends shaping this year.
Forget gloss, matte finishes are now in, especially in white, black, chalky grays and pastels. The velvety, non-glossy tones offset the natural walnut tones of mid-century wood furniture and offer a dramatic contrast to glam elements. Matte pieces can neutralize looks. A range of techniques like lime washes, eggshell paints, powder-coating and ceramic firing are in, and highly polished marble and stone are not. Matte has found its way into the kitchen, with sleek, matte-finished faucets, cookware and cutlery. Matte-finished décor looks amazing next to the metallic objects you picked up in 2015.
Believe it or not, slipcovered furniture is on the return. Casual and comfort are in, and we are into the modern adaption of the over-arching trend. Keep the fabric in a washed linen or canvas and try to steer clear of a piece with too many curves; keep it modern.
Wood-platformed furniture is a cross between industrial, zen and Scandinavian. The trend is big this year. This is for those who appreciate clean lines, simple forms and a streamlined look. Be sure to keep the wood higher quality, so it looks high-end. More home décor and furniture manufactures are becoming eco-friendly, resulting in buffets, chairs, cabinets, coffee tables and other furnishing made from reclaimed wood.
Modern farmhouse style made it possible to continue to cling to rustic pieces. Rustic meet modern — now we aren’t talking about ruffles and lace, but leather club chairs, a plaid throw, old linens or great rustic accessories. Think industrial complements to a rustic farm table.
Sit-down family meals are making a comeback, allowing homeowners to keep their formal dining rooms instead of converting them. As more and more families are concerned about making quality family time, tech-less living rooms aren’t going anywhere as more people opt to keep family rooms unplugged.
Read This Next
Find a Bed with One of These Airbnb Alternatives
Trends / Top Trends
Apr 28, 2016#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedDestinations / North America
Sep 15, 20267 Must-See Sites in Sarasota, Florida
It’s time to start dreaming of your next trip. Here are seven must-see sites in Sarasota, Florida.
Sponsored Content
GET TO KNOW TAP FORBIZ
Unlock flexible, refined business travel with TAP Air Portugal’s program, TAP FORBIZ. Developed for small, medium and large Companies, with options for corporate events, TAP FORBIZ offers exclusive advantages adapted to each type of business.
Caribbean
Sep 15, 2026From Punta Cana to Samaná: Where Will You Say “I Do”?
Destination weddings are bigger than ever. Instead of being just about the big day, it’s becoming a full getaway where couples can spend more time celebrating, connecting and creating memories with their closest friends and family.
Dining/Entertainment
Sep 15, 2026Christmas Pop-Up Bar Brand to Debut Halloween Bars Across World
Miracle Cocktails puts together two Christmas-themed pop-up bars you may’ve come across during past travels (namely Miracle and Sippin’ Santa pop-ups) — but now the brand takes its talents to a new holiday with the recently announced Haunting pop-up bars for 2026.
Sponsored Content
An Adults-Only Resort for All the Milestone Moments
On Saturday, Feb.14, Devossion by Live Aqua celebrated its grand opening, marking a significant milestone for Grupo Posadas and the Live Aqua brand. This adults-only resort focuses on celebration, authentic Mexican experiences and elevated hospitality — perfectly situated in the heart of the Riviera Maya.
Surveys
Sep 14, 2026Study Finds Gen Z Travelers Trust Reviews More Than Brands
Research technology company Rival Technologies recently conducted a study of Gen Z travelers and found this cohort of globetrotters generally trusts online reviews more than brand sway.

ShareThis