Real Talk!

According to couture houses, 2008 is to be the year of rich hues and spicy accents.Ethnic influence will be everywhere, with an emphasis on jewel tone palettes from Asia and India. Elegance and Eco consciousness are important.

Saturated reds and a variety of yellows are expected to lead the fashion trends in home decorating. Jade and turquoise will pop from the neutral and natural tones favoured for the past few years. Contrast in both colour and texture is really hot.

Whether you prefer an eclectic mix of nostalgia with modern or minimalist style- in 2008 the home fashion world suggests you select variations that reflect your personality.

Furniture is solution-oriented and multi-functional. Manufacturers are excited about dining room tables with built-in shelves and ottomans that convert from coffee table tops to cushions. In upholstery, earth-tones (now referred to as “organic” and soft whites (from pearl to ivory) are heavily featured and there is an obvious return to comfortable overstuffed sofas.

The best dressed walls will feature carefully selected framed paintings. Daring decorators will select oversized art as a focal point for their rooms. Watch for metal art pieces or accessories in silver tones, such as brushed nickel.Recycled metals are in.

Design drama brought by giant sized chandeliers, big lamps, extra-large mirrors and accessories are key 2008 trends, while the major elements reflect a spa-like “zen” or feeling of peace and grounding.

2009 is expected to bolster the concept of coexisting contrast. Combinations of simple raw elements of textures like sand, crystal, bamboo and wood will provide the back-drop for bold blasts of multi-coloured, woven, complicated textures.

Next year, nature’s blues will emerge as a continuation of bringing the outdoors in. Watch for an array of finishes, from matte to wet-surface looks and continued homage to metals and cultural ethnic influences.