Full of new pieces, iconic designers and inside looks at some of the most incredible private homes in the world, from Manhattan to Melbourne, this year’s Denizen Modern Living is delivering all the design inspiration you seek for the seasons ahead. Here, our Editor-in-Chief gives her perspective on the shifting tides of international design and speaks to the trends worth buying into.
As I reflect on my 20-odd years as an observer and commentator on the worlds of architecture and design, it is clear that while directions continue to evolve, what’s become most important is what truly defines a space as both timeless and au courant.
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Unlike fashion, architecture and design don’t undergo constant seasonal changes or flash-in-the-pan fads. From the very outset, furniture, textiles, hard materials, fixtures and finishes should be considered too enduring to update frequently.
When you design a home, you should be committed to living with it for a long time. So as we continue to navigate strange times, finding interior solutions that are kind to both our sanity and the planet feels more crucial than ever. But holding to a sense of permanence is critical to understanding which way the future is headed.
In this issue of Modern Living, we explore the enduring appeal of earth tones, which have only increased in popularity since the pandemic years. Their calming effects and associations with nature continue to captivate our senses and create harmonious spaces. Three years into the decade, earth tones still reign supreme, reminding us of the power of nature in our daily lives.
Elsewhere, marble and natural stones remain at the epicentre of any great design. Having taken rightful ownership of our kitchens and bathrooms with a sense of deserved permanence, these raw and unique materials give each project a sense of true individuality, thanks to their organic and one-of-a-kind nature.
Meanwhile, gold, bronze and silver accents are still having their time in the spotlight. Because who can deny their captivating shine and texture? They lend an everyday sophistication to any space, infusing it with a touch of elegance that is both timeless and contemporary.
In a nod to the past, certain design hallmarks from previous periods are making a comeback. After the dominance of laid-back, Mid-century Modernism in the aughts and teens, formal accents are now resurfacing. And — a little more controversially, perhaps — Brutalism is back, albeit with a modern twist. Concrete floors and architectural elements reminiscent of the movement are finding their way into contemporary interiors, but always with a touch of warmth to soften the aesthetic.
As the world becomes increasingly aware of the environmental impact of our choices, the fast furniture trend is thankfully being left behind. An environmentally conscious approach to interior design is always in style. We now understand the importance of investing in quality pieces that will stand the test of time in terms of both durability and aesthetic appeal. It’s about creating spaces that tell a story and are built to last.
In the pursuit of a better outlook and a positive mindset, we find ourselves drawn to elements that bring us joy and happiness. Cocktail cabinets that move and rotate, furniture designed for convivial gatherings, and playful, glamorous and dramatic accents are on the rise. Our spaces are becoming a reflection of our desire to have fun and celebrate.
While luxury remains a vital aspiration, there is now a shift towards a more relaxed take on sophistication. We seek grand yet approachable spaces where we can walk around barefoot without worry. The living room may dazzle with wow-factor designs, while the media room embraces less formal, edgier and more comfortable materials and textures. This reflects a broader societal change as we discover that intelligence and style can coexist without strict formality.
In the pages of this year’s Modern Living, you’ll find inspiration and ideas to curate spaces that stand the test of time that embrace a vision of interiors that balance enduring appeal with contemporary sensibilities. Spaces that bring joy, inspire connection and embody a sense of permanence in this ever-changing world.
