Trend Forecast: Home Design Looks for Fall

2010 August 23

by Sarah

The Washington Post filled us in last week on what design trends were already rolling out for fall—and I love them all! Not that it’s too practical to re-do my home design every time a new trend is declared, but those listed by the Post are right up my alley, so I’d predict they’ll bring design satisfaction long after fall has come and gone.

Since we already know lighting plays a key role in any design scheme (you do know this, right?) let’s look at a few ways to incorporate the trends into your home this fall.

Trend: Mad Men Effect

We already scoped out some of the mid-century lighting and designs from Mad Men’s set design, but how else do you bring a bit of that suave, retro look into your home? You can always count on lighting by Jonathan Adler or Laurie Smith for Quoizel to provide a sophisticated throw-back feel that makes your home feel Mad Men-chic.

Shown above: Pharos Ceiling Fan with Light by Modern Fan Company, Bangle Suspension by Corbett Lighting, Pear Bubble Lamp w/Stand by George Nelson, Ventana Floor Lamp by Jonathan Adler

Trend: Artisan Wares

The Post attributes shopper’s thirst for one-of-a-kind designs to this trend, and lighting is no stranger to handcrafted work. Lines like Oggetti Lighting, Arturo Alvarez and Dform Lighting offer handmade pieces in which no two are alike and each is its own work of art. Artisan lighting is ideal for adding color or accenting the clean aesthetics of modern design.

Shown above: Meep Pendant by Dform, River Rock Multi-Light Pendant by Bacchus Glass for Tech Lighting, Sophi Pendant by Arturo Alvarez, Firefly Pendant Large by Oggetti Luce

Trend: Pattern

A patterned lamp shade or piece of furniture can add a much-needed pop of color or personality to a space. The fresh collection from Lights Up! includes many lively printed shades in a range of colors. The beloved collection from Missoni Home is famous for its vibrant, rich patterns in rugs, throw pillows and textiles.

Shown above: Deco Pendant by Lights Up!, Flight Floor Lamp by Lights Up!, Brentwood Side Patterned Mini Square Pendant by Stonegate Designs, HUMBERT Cushion by Missoni Home, Mademoiselle Chair Missoni by Kartell

Trend: Reflection

Reflective surfaces are a great way to create a sense of depth and light, notes the Post article. Not to mention the glamour created by a shiny, sparkly piece being part of any design, whether it’s subtle or front and center.

Shown above: Aqua Ell Table Lamp by Artemide, Silhouette Suspension by Besa Lighting, Bling Bling Drum Pendant and Wall Sconce by George Kovacs, Mirror Ball Floor Lamp by Tom Dixon

Trend: Statement Pieces

Get familiar with the feeling of someone walking into your home and hearing them suck in their breath with wonder. A statement light fixture is both functional and wow-able, so it’s an easy way to bring that gasp-factor into your home’s design.

Shown above: Rabbit Table Lamp by Moooi, Muse Suspension by AXO Light, Big Bang Wall Sconce by Foscarini, Cirque Ceiling Fan with Light by Minka Aire

Trend: Shades of Gray

Now “gray areas” don’t have to be so off-putting (Ha!). This calming, sleek color can last through every season, but if this fall is a place to start, then so be it.