11 Interior Design Trends We Are Quiet-Quitting in 2023

In the ever-evolving world of interior design, trends come and go, shaping the way we decorate and inhabit our living spaces. We seem to be in a constant dilemma of ‘trend’ verses ‘timelessness’ and it feels impossible to keep up. While some design choices withstand the test of time, others fall out of favour due to various reasons such as practicality, aesthetics, or shifting preferences. With our lifestyle becoming more centred around our home lives, it’s even more important that our space celebrates our individuality and personal style. We’ve identified 11 interior design trends that, despite their popularity, we have chosen to bid farewell to. These trends no longer resonate with the discerning homeowner seeking a fresh, distinctive, and functional living environment.

Monochromatic Dining Room with metal frame glass dividing wall

Industrial Overload

Once lauded for its edgy appeal, the OTT industrial design trend has overstayed its welcome. The excessive use of raw materials, exposed brick, and unfinished surfaces has led to an overabundance of industrial elements that can make a space feel cold, impersonal, and devoid of warmth. While it can look exceptional in some spaces, for those of us that don’t have an open-plan warehouse in our back pockets, it can look forced and artificial when elements are incorporated into a home interior. Instead, we’re opting for sleek, minimalist lines and slim-line matte metal finishes that accentuate décor and bring a softer touch to industrial materials.

Warehouse conversion kitchen with metal bench and eclectic furniture — Image Source: Casa Abril

Monochromatic Madness

While monochromatic colour schemes have their place, the dominance of single-colour palettes in interior design has become monotonous. The absence of contrasting hues and tones can lead to a lack of visual interest and fail to create the desired dynamic atmosphere. Now, we are experimenting with seasonal palettes such as olive greens, aubergines and muted rust tones to soften our monochromatic colour schemes.

Greyscale Bedroom Vignette with Frames, White block Side table and grey textured bedding — Image Source: From Luxe with Love

Statement Walls

The concept of a single accent wall can feel like décor for décor’s sake. We bid farewell to the days of one standout wall adorned with bold wallpaper or a vibrant paint colour, giving way to more cohesive and balanced designs. Instead, we are embracing textured surfaces or tasteful art displays to add depth and character to our spaces. If you still love a statement wall, consider two adjoining walls to create a dramatic zone within one room, or lining the back wall of a bookshelf to create a more subtle pattern infusion.

Feature wall in bedroom with teal triangles and wrought iron bed — Image Source: Construction 2 Style

All-White Kitchens

White kitchens have long been hailed as the epitome of clean and timeless design. However, their ubiquitous presence has resulted in an uninspired sea of sameness. Homeowners are now seeking alternatives by introducing pops of colour, natural materials, or bold cabinetry to inject personality and warmth into their culinary spaces.

Contemporary white kitchen with white cabinetry, benchtop and splashback — Image Source: Via Pinterest, Source Unknown

Ultra-Minimalism

While minimalism will always have its place, the extreme end of this design philosophy has become less appealing. Sterile, barren spaces devoid of personal touches can leave inhabitants feeling disconnected and cold. Striking a balance between simplicity and warmth is the new mantra.

Minimalist beige home with large fireplace and beige floor cushion — Image Source: Behance

Overstuffed Sectionals

The era of oversized, overstuffed sectionals dominating living rooms is gradually fading. Bulky furniture pieces can visually overwhelm a space and impede the flow of movement. In their place, more streamlined and versatile seating options are emerging, allowing for greater flexibility and efficient space utilisation.

Large white sectional sofa in open plan home — Image Source: Via Pinterest, Source Unknown

Faux Finishes

Imitation materials, such as faux wood or faux marble, have become less desirable as homeowners seek authenticity and sustainability in their design choices. Real materials with unique textures and characteristics are now favored over their artificial counterparts. If you are renovating with a limited budget, consider designing your interior palette around authentic materials as a pre-requisite. You may be surprised how elegant a room of authentic, affordable materials looks compared to luxurious, but artificial, materials.

Dusty Pink painted detail on wall with lamp — Image Source: Collective Gen

Open Shelving Everywhere

Open shelving has had its moment, but the drawbacks are becoming apparent. The constant need for meticulous organisation and the accumulation of dust have made homeowners reconsider this trend. Your space should work for you, not the other way around! Concealed storage solutions are gaining popularity, providing a clutter-free and visually pleasing environment. Check out our article on when it’s best to choose cupboards, shelves, or drawers.

Dining table in kitchen with large concrete open shelving with crockery — Image Source: Flickr

Overdone Metallics

Metallic finishes, especially gold and brass, have saturated the design landscape in recent years. However, excessive use of metallic accents can result in an overwhelming and gaudy effect. Homeowners are now opting for subtler applications of metals, choosing matte or brushed finishes for a more refined aesthetic.

Butlers pantry with brushed silver metal cabinetry, benchtop and backsplash — Image Source: Via Pinterest Source Unknown

Barn Doors

Once hailed as a rustic-chic addition to any home, barn doors have lost their charm. The sliding doors, often heavy and cumbersome, can impede privacy and disrupt the flow between rooms (not to mention the, ahem, lack of sound insulation). In their place, contemporary pocket doors or elegant French doors are being embraced for their functionality and timeless appeal.

Wooden hallway with navy barn door to bathroom — Image Source: Dezeen

Edison Bulbs

The nostalgic glow of Edison bulbs has captivated many design enthusiasts in recent years. However, their widespread use has led to an oversaturation of this vintage aesthetic. Homeowners are now exploring more innovative lighting options that combine energy efficiency with unique design elements.

Close up of Edison light bulbs in cafe — Image Source: The Black Workshop

As we bid farewell to these tired interior design trends, we open the door (pun intended!) for innovative and authentic design choices that celebrate individuality, functionality, and lasting appeal. By challenging the status quo and embracing new ideas, we make room for creative and fresh possibilities.