Interior design trends for 2021

We all have big hopes for 2021 and whilst the new year might not have gotten off to the most promising of starts, there is light at the end of the tunnel.

A new year brings with it optimism and change, whether that be from a health kick, a lifestyle change, or a change within the home. We have all spent so long at home that we probably have a list of tasks and jobs we want to do after staring at the same four walls for an extended period of time during the winter months. It is with this in mind we have enlisted the help of our Group Visual Merchansider, Jo Mounty to talk you through the interior design trends for 2021 and to help you with some style inspiration to re-invigorate your home.

1. Botanical bliss

Pictured: Cleeves Console Table

We have seen this trend becoming more and more prominent over the last few years and it shows no signs of slowing down in 2021. “Introducing plants to your home allows you to bring the outdoors in and adds vibrancy. Leafy ferns and succulents provide a sense of tranquillity and calm whilst also being easy to care for.” says, Jo.  For the less green-fingered amongst us, there are some great artificial plant alternatives available.

2. Go bold with prints and patterns

Pictured: Casa Bexley 3 Seater Sofa

2021 sees a resurgence of feature wallpaper, but think bolder than the pretty florals of 10 years ago. The botanical theme continues in this trend but sees darker, opulent shades taking centre stage. We also see the introduction of bright and colourful animals, such as birds in wallpaper and soft furnishings. “The bolder the better with this look, and I recommend adding vibrant furniture that compliments the wallpaper to really maximise this trend. The Bexley sofa range from the Casa collection suits this perfectly and the velvet finish adds texture with a real sense of grandeur”, suggests Jo.

3. A contemporary twist on country living

Pictured: Casa Cleeves collection

Bold prints and colours aren’t for everyone. For the more subtle amongst us, 2020 saw more country-style vibes re-emerging with a modern twist. 2021 sees this resurgence continuing and our latest dining collections reflect this perfectly. Style this look with accessories from Jo’s favourite brand Garden Trading to finish your look. “Our latest Casa dining collections are some of my favourite product launches over recent years, they suit the style of my own home perfectly. These collections also look great if you have a nautical style to your home. The soft finish to the colour of the wood suits a coastal theme and pairs perfectly with shades of blue.”

4. Make a statement

Pictured: Frith rugs – available in store and online.

It may not always be possible to change the furniture in your home, but there are ways to make a statement without needing to make a large commitment. If you’re prone to changing your mind or like to keep up to date with trends, you may want to keep the walls and furniture neutral while using soft furnishings and accessories to change up your look. Jo recommends, “Adding a statement rug to your living space allows you to add colour and texture whilst also being relatively inexpensive. Choose cushions, throws and accessories that pick out the colours in your rug to add those all-important finishing touches.”

5. Back to basics with earthy tones

Pictured: Dulux Brave Ground, standard coloured emulsion – available in store.

When Dulux first announced their colour of the year for 2021 as Brave Ground there was a somewhat mixed response. Over recent years we have seen Dulux opt for more stand out feature colours like Denim Drift or Copper Blush. Brave Ground sees a more back to basics approach which sums up the last 12 months perfectly. “Earthy, neutral tones are set to be big for 2021 as we see a move away from cooler grey-neutrals. Luckily, the colours we have paired so well with these tones in recent years can be combined with the warm, earthy shades too. Blush pinks, soft ochres and warm-toned mixed metallics are perfect for this trend.” explains Jo.

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Meet The Team

Name: Joanna Mounty

Role: Group Visual Merchandiser

Service: 26 Years

About: Jo studied design at Cheltenham Art College before going on to work in London for six years at a company who specialised in visual merchandising, where clients included Harrods, Harvey Nichols and Liberty. Following her time in London Jo headed back to Wales where she joined the Leekes Retail & Leisure Group. Jo has been heavily involved with all forms of visual merchandising and design across the group, which includes the Vale Resort, Hensol apartments and Hensol Castle. For the last few years, Jo has concentrated on the retail side of the business bringing style inspiration to our furniture departments, introducing new home accessories areas in selected stores as well as styling photoshoots. Jo is currently splitting her time between designing new bedrooms at Hensol Castle which is due to open for guests later in 2021 and a new store location for Park Furnishers, a furniture store in Bristol which is also part of the Leekes Retail & Leisure Group.

What I love about Leekes: “I really enjoy working for a family company where your opinions are heard and valued. My role is incredibly varied meaning I get to work with a number of different colleagues across the group and no two days are the same. One day I can be selecting beautiful curtains and furnishings for the resort and the next I am unpacking furniture ready to go on display in the retail stores. The variety means I also get to build lots of new relationships with suppliers which is very important.”

Favourite Leekes product: Percy chair by Alexander & James

The next big thing: “From an interiors point of view, I am excited to see the increased use of bold and striking colours. Textures are also becoming more and more important which is why I always encourage the use of different fabrics and finishes to finish a room. These textures can come from soft furnishings, house plants and surfaces.”

For more interior inspiration follow us on Instagram @leekesltd. Use the #loveleekes to have your Leekes purchased shared by us.