The materials that will innovate the Interior Design sector in 2018

As for the materials, the 2018 trends in the contract and interior design world revolve around two very strong directions: the former being the already consolidated trend of using wood and eco-sustainable elements, whilst the latter is the real novelty which concerns the great come-back of furnishing elements with a retro flavor, yet declined in a modern context characterized by new and unprecedented uses.

After years of shabby chic decorations, the noble materials, like marble, are back in vogue. From the classic Carrara marble, very white and chic, up to the most original Verde Alpi (green) or Nero Portoro (black), it is proposed, in addition to the glossy version, especially in the opaque one. Perfect to be combined with wood, but also with the finishes of the moment, such as resin and concrete, it is used not only for bathrooms and kitchens, but also for shelves and entire walls that combine functionality and refinement.

The other very strong trend refers to the use of metals with warm shades, such as brass and copper; a tendency complementary to that of marble because the coldness that distinguishes this rock fits perfectly with the warmth of these alloys. They are used above all to give an original and sophisticated tone to details and finishes such as mixers, handles or paneling that give life to niches and walls to be illuminated with art for a highly scenographic effect.

The “natural” tones of marble and brass are lit up with a touch of bright color, from red to warm purple aubergine and jungle green, especially when used in the materials that will characterize the soft furnishing, such as velvet, or trendy wallpapers.

For 2018 the trends in interior design seem to have abandoned pure minimalism and the country chic style in favor of an exploit of colors and materials inspired by the past. The contemporary touch is mainly given by the use of simple patterns and geometries that contrast with the eclectic touches given, for example, by floral and exotic motifs that are inspired by the “pop” Mexican and South American art of the second after war.

Ph. Courtesy of Philip Plein, Project by Studio Pironi & Partners