Interior Design Trends 2023

Embracing a Spacious Lifestyle within Compact Spaces: The Evolution of Small Apartments and Modular Furniture. Would you live there? The modern living landscape is undergoing a remarkable transformation as small apartments and modular furniture redefine the way we inhabit our spaces. The concept of "living large in a small footprint" has become more than just a catchphrase; it has become a tangible reality reshaping our living experiences. Small apartments, once seen as a compromise, are now celebrated for their efficiency and practicality. As urban centers grow denser, these compact living spaces have evolved to maximize functionality without sacrificing comfort. The ingenious use of design elements, multifunctional furniture, and smart storage solutions enables residents to enjoy a comfortable and enriching lifestyle even within limited square footage. Enter modular furniture, a game-changer that perfectly complements the ethos of small-space living. Modular pieces are designed to adapt, transform, and serve multiple purposes, allowing residents to tailor their environments to their needs. From transforming sofas that become beds to dining tables that expand and contract, modular furniture empowers us to customize our surroundings while optimizing space utilization. This trend is profoundly impacting how we live. It encourages a shift towards intentional living, prompting us to carefully curate our possessions and prioritize what truly matters. The focus is on quality over quantity, leading to more thoughtful consumption patterns and sustainable living choices. Moreover, small apartments and modular furniture are fostering a sense of versatility. The boundaries between spaces are blurring as rooms multitask and evolve with our activities. A dining area can seamlessly transform into a workspace, and a living room can transition into a guest bedroom, all at the push of a button or the rearrangement of a few pieces. Innovations in design and technology are driving this evolution, making small apartments not just viable options but preferred choices for a diverse range of people, from young professionals seeking urban convenience to empty nesters downsizing their living arrangements. The convergence of small apartments and modular furniture is reshaping our understanding of space and how we utilize it. This transformation isn't just about making the most of less; it's about fostering a more deliberate, adaptable, and mindful way of living, where every square foot is an opportunity to express our personality and create a meaningful environment. #innovation via @ ori_living #technology

𝗛𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝘄𝗮𝗹𝗸𝗲𝗱 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗼 𝗮 𝗿𝗼𝗼𝗺 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵𝘁, " 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝘀𝗽𝗮𝗰𝗲 𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱 𝗱𝗼 𝘀𝗼 𝗺𝘂𝗰𝗵 𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗲 "❓ That's the magic of creativity in modern furniture design, It's not just about assembling materials, it’s about crafting solutions. When you rethink the obvious, you unlock a world of possibilities. Consider these questions : ➡️ What if a table could transform into a workspace ? ➡️ Can a sofa double as a guest bed ? ➡️ What if your furniture could adapt to your life, rather than the other way around ? This shift in mindset leads to innovative designs that redefine functionality. Creative furniture design breaks the rules and blends form with function, this approach results in : ✅ Space-saving solutions that make even the coziest apartments feel roomy.   ✅ Versatile pieces that adjust to your lifestyle, whether you’re working from home or hosting friends.   ✅ Hidden features that maximize utility, ensuring every inch counts. Whether you live in a tiny studio or a spacious home, the best furniture does more with less, without compromising on style or comfort. But remember, true innovation starts in your mind. Traditional design asks, "What can I build ?"   Creative design asks, "What problem can I solve ?" The future of furniture is adaptive, as our lives change, remote work, smaller spaces, evolving routines, our furniture must keep pace. 𝗦𝗼, 𝗵𝗼𝘄 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗿𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗸 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝘀𝗽𝗮𝗰𝗲 𝘁𝗼𝗱𝗮𝘆 ❓

Geometry, Patterns, and Reflections. Hopare is a French artist with a spray can in one hand and a stencil in the other, creating larger-than-life masterpieces on the streets. From his roots as an underground graffiti artist, to more refined use of stencils and spray paint, his work ranges from bold and bright to jaw-droppingly intricate. What started as doodling on school notebooks, can now be found brightening up sidewalks and walls all over the globe. His art explores the human fascination with geometric shapes, reflecting our innate desire to find patterns in the chaos. Reminding us that even the simplest forms can reveal complex relationships. Merging aesthetics with geometry and symmetry, he creates compositions that are not only visually appealing but provoke deep thought and contemplation. For packaging designers, there's a lesson here. In the same way Hopare transforms everyday walls into vibrant murals, well-chosen design elements have the power to elevate everyday packaging and make it stand out like a vibrant mural on a drab Parisian wall. Traditionally, packaging design has been confined to cuboids, focusing on innovations in colour, pattern, and print techniques. But geometric designs challenge these norms, breaking away from predictable rectangles and squares. Shapes like hexagons, octagons, and triangles not only draw the eye but also add functional benefits... better stacking, stronger structures, or simply a unique unboxing experience. Nature has long been a muse for creatives and scientists alike. From the perfect symmetry of a snowflake to the honeycomb structures used by bees, geometry is woven into the very fabric of the natural world. Patterns that represent efficiency, balance, and beauty, and are seen everywhere from the petals of a flower to the proteins that form life itself. Packaging design often follows the lead of the natural world. The honeycomb structure in corrugated materials, for example, takes inspiration directly from nature, combining lightweight construction with incredible strength. Design, at its core, is about transformation. It's the power to take the ordinary and make it extraordinary. It's about using form, pattern, and function to tell a story, spark curiosity, and captivate the audience. Feeling inspired yet?

7 Powerful Lessons from "Goodbye, Things: The New Japanese Minimalism" by Fumio Sasaki: 1. Happiness Comes from Within, Not Possessions: The book argues that the pursuit of material possessions often leads to stress, anxiety, and a sense of emptiness. True happiness comes from cultivating meaningful relationships, pursuing passions, and living in alignment with your values. 2. Decluttering is a Liberating Experience: Letting go of excess belongings can be a deeply liberating experience. It can free up your physical space, mental energy, and emotional baggage. This allows you to focus on what truly matters and live a lighter, more fulfilling life. 3. Less is More: Sasaki advocates for a minimalist approach to life, suggesting that having less paradoxically leads to more. With fewer possessions, you have more time, energy, and freedom to pursue your passions and experience life to the fullest. 4. Curate Your Space, Reflect Your Values: The book encourages you to surround yourself with only objects that bring you joy, utility, or beauty. This creates a space that reflects your values and priorities, fostering a sense of peace and well-being. 5. Gratitude for What You Have: By focusing on the things you own and appreciate, rather than what you lack, you cultivate a sense of gratitude and contentment. This shift in perspective leads to a more positive and fulfilling life. 6. Quality over Quantity: The book encourages prioritizing quality over quantity when acquiring possessions. Invest in fewer, well-made items that you truly cherish and use regularly, rather than accumulating cheap, disposable goods. 7. Minimalism is a Journey, Not a Destination: Sasaki emphasizes that minimalism is not about achieving a perfect state of emptiness. It's a continuous process of decluttering, evaluating, and refining your relationship with your possessions. The goal is to live with intention and purpose, focusing on what truly matters to you. Letting go of things can be challenging, but the rewards are significant. By embracing minimalism, you can create a life that is more intentional, fulfilling, and free from the burdens of material possessions.

Minimalist interior design isn’t just a trend—it’s a philosophy that brings clarity, efficiency, and beauty into our daily environments. By stripping away the excess and focusing on what truly matters, minimalist spaces create an atmosphere that enhances productivity, promotes well-being, and allows for genuine creativity. In today’s fast-paced world, a thoughtfully designed minimalist space can serve as a sanctuary from the noise. Whether you’re working from home or designing a corporate office, consider these key principles: • Neutral Palette: Soft whites, muted greys, and warm beiges create a calming backdrop that enhances focus and comfort. • Functional Elegance: Clean lines and simple forms ensure that every piece of furniture serves a purpose—combining aesthetics with practicality. • Intentional Decluttering: A streamlined environment isn’t about emptiness; it’s about making room for what truly adds value, both in design and function. • Natural Elements: Incorporating organic materials and plenty of natural light not only grounds the space but also connects us with the simplicity of nature. Embracing minimalism is more than an aesthetic choice—it’s a way to foster a balanced, innovative, and healthy workspace. As we continue to evolve in our professional and personal lives, how can you integrate minimalism to enhance your environment? #MinimalistDesign #InteriorDesign #WorkplaceWellness #DesignThinking #Simplicity #Productivity #Innovation

- The Concept of MA - The Space in Between, where absence can be as crucial as presence. This Japanese principle can be summed up in the concept of “ma”, which roughly translates to “negative space”, but evokes a deeper sense of a “gap” or “pause” that gives new shape and meaning to the whole. The character for “ma” \\\(間\\\) combines the characters for “gate” above with “sun” below - an image of light beaming through the empty space of a doorway. So it is fitting that “ma” can be observed most directly in traditions of architecture and interior design, from homes to ceremonial or religious structures. In the archetypical Japanese home, the minimalist tatami room prioritizes smooth lines and clean surfaces, with belongings neatly tucked away, and a few carefully chosen objects centered in such a way that emphasizes the empty space around them. SPECTRUM Architecture #architecture #interiordesign #interior #japanesearchitecture #ma #designprinciples #spectrumguide

ENGAWA Discover the Beauty of Engawa: Inspiration of Design and Cultural Fusion 🇯🇵 Have you ever encountered the concept of Engawa? This Japanese architectural element is much more than a design feature—it’s a bridge between indoor and outdoor living, blending functionality with aesthetic grace. Engawa refers to a traditional verandah or hallway that seamlessly connects the inside of a home with its surrounding environment. It’s a space where natural light floods in, where the lines between exterior and interior blur, and where one can truly experience the beauty of the changing seasons. Incorporating the essence of Engawa into modern design teaches us the value of harmony and balance. It reminds us that the spaces we create should not only be functional but also foster a deep connection with nature and enhance human well-being. Let’s draw inspiration from Engawa to design spaces that celebrate both simplicity and elegance, and to remind ourselves of the profound impact that thoughtful design can have on our lives. #DesignInspiration #Engawa #Architecture #InteriorDesign #CulturalDesign #HarmonyInDesign

Can thoughtful material pairings replace excess decor? when done right, the right materials and colors do the heavy lifting, creating warmth, texture, and personality without overloading the space. Here are five alternative warm material and color combos that prove less really can be more and feel better too: ✅ Terracotta Tiles + Soft Sage Green Walls ℹ️ Kitchens or sunrooms. Earthy terracotta adds grounded charm, while sage calms and connects with nature . ✅ Cane Webbing + Warm Gray Upholstery ℹ️ Dining chairs or boho-inspired lounges. Cane’s breezy texture adds lightness; warm gray brings subtle depth . ✅ Burnished Copper Fixtures + Charcoal Blue Walls ℹ️ Bathrooms or statement entryways. Copper’s glow pairs beautifully with moody blue to create instant elegance . ✅ Natural Jute + Dusty Rose Accents ℹ️ Bedrooms or creative corners. Raw jute anchors the space; dusty rose softens it .. together, they evoke warmth with simplicity. ✅ Handmade Ceramic Tiles (off-white or blush) + Warm Walnut Shelving ℹ️ Coffee stations or powder rooms. Tactile ceramics meet rich wood tones, creating a welcoming moment without visual clutter. These aren't just style choices , they’re a more mindful way to build warmth, character, and comfort into a space. All visuals shared are #AI-generated for conceptual inspiration only and not for commercial use. #InteriorInspo #MaterialMood #LessButBetter #Midjourneyai

Two weeks ago, I posted in celebration of World Architecture Day, asking about people's favourite architectural styles or buildings and how they’ve influenced their views on space and community. This question led to a rich conversation with Owethu Mathobela, who shared her admiration for architecture rooted in village-making principles. She also recommended the video "How to Turn Your Neighborhood into a Village" by Mark Lakeman and Andrew Millison. Her insights made me reflect on my favourite architectural style and its impact on my community. #𝗧𝗥𝗢𝗣𝗜𝗖𝗔𝗟𝗠𝗢𝗗𝗘𝗥𝗡𝗜𝗦𝗠 Tropical Modernism is a design approach that developed in tropical regions, combining the principles of modern architecture (clean lines, minimalism, and open layouts) with the practical requirements of tropical climates. The style focuses on creating a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces, utilizing natural materials and passive design strategies, such as optimizing ventilation and incorporating shading to manage heat. 𝗞𝗲𝘆 𝗙𝗲𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗧𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗠𝗼𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗶𝘀𝗺: 1) Natural Ventilation: Designs that promote airflow to cool spaces naturally, reducing reliance on artificial air conditioning. 2) Indoor-Outdoor Integration: Large windows, open plans, and sliding doors to create a connection between the interior and surrounding nature. Terraces, patios, and verandas blend seamlessly into interior spaces to allow for flexible, outdoor-oriented living. 3) Sustainable Materials: Use of local, natural materials that not only suit the environment but also reduce environmental impact. 4) Shading Elements: The strategic use of screens, slats, and lattice-like elements to diffuse light. Roof overhangs, pergolas, and louvres that offer protection from the tropical sun while maintaining visual openness. 5) Water features: Water features like reflective pools, fountains, and ponds that help cool the surrounding air and enhance the aesthetic appeal. 6) Native Landscaping: Lush greenery and vertical gardens integrated into the building itself, use of indigenous plants in landscaping that thrive in the local climate. 7) Building Orientation: The building is oriented to minimize heat gain and maximize cross-ventilation by considering sun paths, prevailing winds, and seasonal weather patterns. 8) Renewable Energy Integration: Use rainwater harvesting systems, and other renewable energy sources to minimize environmental impact. A few projects that have greatly influenced me are: Alan Vaughan-Richards House, Ikoyi, Lagos - https://lnkd.in/dkjK5DX7 Jaque Studio-Tropical House, Tulum, Mexico -https://lnkd.in/dcvwMsz7 Geoffrey Bawa’s-The Kandalama Hotel, Dambulla, Sri Lanka - https://lnkd.in/df7YHRRb #Architecture #SustainableDesign #ModernArchitecture #IndoorOutdoorLiving #ArchitecturalDesign #BuildingWithNature #DesignInspiration #PassiveDesign #VillageMaking #ArchitecturalInfluence #TropicalArchitecture #LandscapeArchitecture

🌿 Exploring the Essence of Korean Interior Design 🏠 Korean interior design stands out for its elegant simplicity, deep connection to nature, and seamless blend of tradition with modern functionality. At its core lies the philosophy of Hanok — traditional Korean architecture that embraces harmony between humans and their environment. Some key design principles that continue to inspire modern interiors: 🔹 Understanding Hanok: More than just a “Korean house,” Hanok reflects a holistic lifestyle — integrating geomancy (Feng Shui), seasonal adaptability (like ondol floor heating), and personalized architecture. Each Hanok is a thoughtful balance of function, aesthetics, and spiritual harmony. 🔹 Natural Elements: Materials like wood, stone, and indoor greenery create grounding, peaceful spaces. These elements not only enhance beauty but also reflect centuries-old traditions of living in tune with nature. 🔹 Minimalism with Meaning: Rooted in Buddhist values, Korean minimalism is about intentional simplicity — decluttered, purpose-driven, and calming environments that foster clarity and peace of mind. 🔹 Neutral Colors: Inspired by the natural world, tones of white, beige, and gray dominate, offering a serene canvas that amplifies light, space, and subtle textures. 🔹 Functional Layouts: Whether it’s multi-use furniture or open spaces for family life, every design choice supports practicality and flow — a true example of beauty serving function. 🔹 Indoor-Outdoor Harmony: With open courtyards, large windows, and fluid transitions, Korean design brings the outside in — creating refreshing, light-filled spaces. As modern lifestyles evolve, the timeless wisdom of Korean interior design offers a valuable lens through which we can create homes that are not just beautiful — but meaningful, sustainable, and soulfully connected to their surroundings. #InteriorDesign #KoreanArchitecture #Hanok #DesignWithPurpose #Minimalism #SustainableDesign #CulturalDesign #ArchitectureInspiration #NatureInspired