Playing it safe (but not too safe)

With a wealth of options in interiors nowadays, it’s easy to forget that it isn’t that long ago that we all had magnolia walls and pine everything. Renovating and decorating isn’t cheap, however, and many of us don’t tend to overhaul our homes regularly, meaning we could be staring at the same bathroom or kitchen for the best part of the next decade or two.

Just like in fashion, interior styles come and go, so following the latest trends can mean expensive faux pas – there is every chance that cool green herringbone tiles will eventually look as dated as those avocado bathroom suites of old. We ask some of Ireland’s leading interior designers how to make renovation choices that will stand the test of time.

Kate Hobbins-Lockett, interior designer https://www.katehobbinslockett.com

Instagram: @katehobbinslockett

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What current trends do you see dating most quickly?

I hate to say this but I think the slatted wood walls are going to be a thing of the past sooner rather than later. Especially when used as a “feature wall”. This doesn’t mean I’m against them altogether, I love a wooden wall treatment, they can bring a warmth to rooms, but I think you really have to consider how it flows with the rest of your space. Oftentimes they aren’t in keeping with the style of your house or the rest of your decor.

What never goes out of style when it comes to interiors?

I strongly believe that the right white paint has the most longevity. It will always give a fresh, clean canvas to any style of decor you put against it.

I think people can get stuck in their heads with all the tiny details, and look to copying styles instead of thinking of how they actually live

—  Kate Hobbins-Lockett

Think of a Parisian apartment with glorious curated pieces or a Scandinavian home – they never date because they usually have a neutral base. This type of designing really allows for pieces in the room to have their moment.

How do you strike a balance between playing it too safe and being a slave to trends when renovating?

I think people can get stuck in their heads with all the tiny details, and look to copying styles instead of thinking of how they actually live. Pretty spaces are nice, I’m not going to deny that, but if you’re not going to use it, what’s the point? For example, butler’s pantries have become very popular with the increasing influence from American design, but do you really need one? Probably not if you have an average-sized family and well-designed storage in your kitchen.

Sarah Louise Dunne, interior designer, https://slouiseinteriors.com

Instagram: @sarahlouiseinteriors

What current trends do you see dating most quickly?

We really try to steer our clients away from following trends where possible as, let’s face it, we don’t all have Kim Kardashian’s budget, so if you get sick of a style in a couple of months, it isn’t as easy to rethink the space. Deeply veined marble with lots of character is a huge trend in interiors in 2023, and as much as I love marble, I think it can be overdone. Marble is most effective where it adds interest by creating a focal point in a room rather than using it excessively.

Knowing that our clients will be staring at their same four walls day in day out, we work to incorporate nods to their inspiration

—  Sarah Louise Dunne

Open shelving in kitchens is another trend I see that may already be on the way out. As lovely as it can look, we all need storage, and the practicality of hiding away numerous utensils and pots could see the popularity of open shelving declining.

What never goes out of style when it comes to interiors?

Clean lines, simple but warm colour schemes and rich wood tones are great timeless foundations for any space we design. When it comes to art we lean into more refined artwork as opposed to animal prints, quotes and strong geometrics, which can tire quickly. Landscapes and botanicals are a more calming and timeless option. High quality woodwork in cabinetry and panelling, for example, is the best investment any homeowner can make as it is the easiest way to transform any space and add interest.

How do you strike a balance between playing it too safe and being a slave to trends when renovating?

Stylish lighting transforms and elevates any area, but timeless foundations ensure that the space doesn’t fall into the “too trendy” category. We often meet clients who have been greatly inspired by interiors seen on TV shows, in hotels and from their travels, but naturally a hotel environment allows for more playful and dramatic designs as you are only there to enjoy a short stay, and therefore you will not tire of the decor. Knowing that our clients will be staring at their same four walls day in day out, we work to incorporate nods to their inspiration and vision board without trying to emulate a space with a non-residential purpose.

Denise O’Connor, architect and interior designer, Optimise Design www.optimise-home.com

Instagram: @optimisehome

What current trends do you see dating most quickly?

The bolder the trend, the faster it tends to fade away. I remember when high-gloss red kitchens were all the rage, for example. Loud colours, bold prints or out-there furniture pieces should be considered carefully. With a new trend emerging every week, it’s more important than ever to think carefully before jumping on board with a particular style. This is especially true for large items like kitchens, flooring, or windows that are a significant investment and can be expensive to replace.

What never goes out of style when it comes to interiors?

For me, it’s all about investing in quality pieces that have a story to tell. These items are not only functional and beautiful, but they also add character and soul to your home.

Think of renovating your home like you would approach building a wardrobe – you want to invest in classic, well-made pieces that will stand the test of time

—  Denise O’Connor

I always recommend investing in a well-crafted sofa in a neutral colour, as it’s the centrepiece of any living room and sets the tone for the space. Additionally, great lighting and mirrors can work wonders in elevating the look and feel of a room. What I love about the current trend in home design is the focus on incorporating items that hold a special meaning to you rather than just following the latest fads.

How do you strike a balance between playing it too safe and being a slave to trends when renovating?

Think of renovating your home like you would approach building a wardrobe – you want to invest in classic, well-made pieces that will stand the test of time while incorporating trendy items to keep your look fresh and current. By identifying your personal style and investing in quality foundational pieces such as a neutral-coloured sofa or a well-crafted dining table, you can create a backdrop that can withstand the changing trends.

Incorporating accent pieces such as cushions, rugs, or artworks will add interest and help you to stay current with the latest trends. These items can be easily updated as trends evolve, allowing you to keep your space feeling fresh without a complete overhaul.