Interior design trends for 2022

2022 Interior Design Trends

and everything you need to know about renovating your home

After spending so much time in lockdown over the last two years because of the Coronavirus restrictions, most of us are probably fatigued by looking at the same interiors. This is why it is important to look at ways of improving the interior of our homes. The Faculty of Arts and Design’s Andile Dube spoke to Durban University of Technology Interior Design alumna and owner of Hustle & Heart Interiors, Tamryn Rowe about 2022 interior design trends and how to transform our spaces.

Rowe’s work showing a calming natural and comfortable interior. Photo Supplied.

According to Rowe when contemplating redesigning or transforming a space it is important to consider the user’s experience within the space. She says, “above all else how the space functions and makes the user feel while interacting within the space is the most important element.”

Rowe points out that even with a low budget it is possible to renovate your space. She says there is a misconception that interior designers are highpriced or reserved only for large budget projects, when in fact a designer is able to work smartly with a given budget to give you the most desirable outcome.

She advises that when working on a project with a smaller budget, be smart about where the money is spent. “Choose feature elements that make an impact and have longevity and then bring in trends, colours and patterns in areas that will/can be switched out to keep the interior fresh, for example, scatter cushions and decor items. Scale is so important! There has to be a hierarchy within a space. To achieve balance, there must be a thoughtful mix of texture, pattern and colour. Quieter details are necessary to allow statement pieces to shine. Spend money on good lighting as it really is one of the most important features in a room.”

When it comes to renovating small spaces, it is important to research adaptable design, as Rowe points out, “there are so many clever ways to design a small space to be multi-functional. With a movement to ‘tiny home living’ at the moment Hustle & Heart Interiors owner, Tamryn Rowe. Photo Supplied.

According to Rowe, elevated outdoor spaces are a must this year. Photo Supplied.

Texture, pattern and colour are some of the important things to consider when redecorating your home. Photo Supplied.

there really is an abundance of ideas out there. But the same principles/process would apply to any area size room. define the brief, identify the purpose and design for the user experience.”

Working remotely from home, we have also been forced to transform some of our spaces into home offices. The important thing to note with home offices is, “If you have the space to segregate them from your living area do so, if not make sure the space is adaptable i.e. can be ‘packed up/closed off’ at the end of your work day so that you can maintain a good work/life balance,” says Rowe.

The layout and aesthetics of a room are other important factors to consider when renovating your space because these can affect your energy and productivity. Rowe emphasises that colour, lighting, Feng Shui and ventilation all affect one’s mood and productivity within a space.

She adds, “The most important starting point to any project would be defining the brief, i.e. what is the function/purpose of the space, what human experience are you wanting the user to experience within this space. Once this is clear you can then design accordingly” Her advice on designing outdoor spaces like terraces or backyards is balance- as it is key with all designs.

“Play with the scale and colour which will guide your eye through the space. Make sure to have shaded and unshaded areas. Use the landscaping to indulge all your senses. Be sustainable and grow a veggie garden,” she says.