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Current interior design trends influencing surface materials By Irene Williams
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hat do two popular television series about the fact opposites attract and the great outdoors have in common? Each has inspired sweeping interior design trends that presently influence today’s residential and commercial aesthetics, including the look, feel and function of surface materials. These were showcased by Lindsey Waldrep, vice-president of marketing at Crossville Inc., during a presentation at this year’s Coverings expo, North America’s largest annual event for the tile and stone industries. Waldrep curated the survey of three macro design trends in
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context of what’s up-and-coming in the realm of tile design. Here’s a quick take on each. COURTLY CONDUCT: TIMELESS LUXURY
The first trend is inspired by the audaciously ornate sets and styles of The Great and Bridgerton. Both are lavish episodic television series marked by over the top period costuming and decor. The Great, billed as the “occasionally true story of the rise of Catherine the Nothing into Catherine the Great,” takes place in the Baroque 18th century, while Bridgerton explores the opulent lifestyles of London’s high society in the 19th century Re-
gency period. These influential shows have sparked frenzies in the realms of wearable and interior fashion, with designers offering modern interpretations of Baroque and Regency’s maximalist sensibilities. The overriding essence of this trend is really about timeless luxury and escapism. It’s indulgent, curlicued and theatrical. Whether following the appeal of Baroque’s grandeur or Regency’s fantastical elegance, this trend comes to life in contemporary applications through use of a spectrum of colours, stunning details and sumptuous layering. With the Baroque influence, gilded and marbled white hues dominate the palette
