Articles highlighting interior design trends for 2020 indicate consumers have an increasing desire for warmth, character and authenticity in their decor choices. This is good news for those of us in the hardwood flooring industry.
Based on recent Forbes article, the “Faux look” appears to be on the way out. Kelley Mason, stylist at Lulu & Georgia, gets real about faux, calling this trend done. “Faux-anything, whether faux plants or faux finishes feel insincere and gimmicky,” she says. “The Wabi-Sabi aesthetic and the return to quality over quantity emphasizes a return to actual objects that require care and creation by artisans, rather than mass manufacturing.”
Ben Marshall, who is the creative director of Hudson Valley Lighting Group shares the same opinion. “People today crave authenticity, so these sorts of faux finishes will quickly become a thing of the past. Give them the real thing.”
The idea that faux natural materials are out was echoed in a recent article at Realtor.com. “If you’ve been relying on faking expensive decor, we’ve got bad news: Look-alike materials such as wood-look porcelain plank tile and faux stone will be out in 2020,” says Amanda Amato-Scotto, CEO and principal designer at AMA Designs & Interiors. “We live in a time where people desire more authenticity — whether that be on social media, real life, or in the home. Say no to faux, and opt for the real deal, which adds character to your home.”
Another recent article in the Wall Street Journal, titled “The Top 6 Interior Design Trends for 2020” indicates that rich and warm real wood is on-trend in 2020. People want rooms that are a bit more cozy, with richer, darker colors, noted Jenna Rochon, co-founder of Transition State design in Los Angeles. On the floor, that translates to walnut, mahogany and dark oak. New York designer Young Huh also noted a tendency toward “finishes with old-world charm.” Honey-toned species like oak and maple contribute to a casual vibe, said Ms. Goldman, “but since they pair nicely with warmer hues, the final look is not as faded out” as that of bleached wood.”