Rude House / STUDIOTAMAT. Image © Serena Eller Vainicher
As we approach the end of 2023, a year that has truly been defined by "shifts," it is essential to reflect on how global events and emerging trends have influenced the design of interior spaces. Looking back, we witnessed a significant questioning of established norms and a search for alternative ways of designing and building. Architects have delved into topics such as colonialism, consumer culture, waste, tradition, and authenticity, injecting new perspectives into the discipline. Interior design in 2023 has evolved into a reserved yet explorative domain, characterized by modesty and subtlety. After years of constant change, people have embraced simplicity while finding ways to express their individuality. Join us as we explore the ten interior design trends that have shaped spaces this year.
Earth-Inspired Color Palettes
Terra Restaurant Al Qana / BONE. Image © Oculis Project
Oasi House / MARBÄ Artquitectura + Diseño iluminación Cálida Lighting. Image © Alejandro Gómez Vives
Mezcalería Maguey / Daniela Bucio Sistos // Taller de Arquitectura y Diseño. Image © Dane Alonso
Bakes Flagship Store and Bakery / The Lab Saigon. Image © Do Sy
Climate change and its far-reaching consequences have remained a central theme throughout 2023. With record-breaking temperatures across the globe, architects and designers have drawn inspiration from the Earth itself. Color palettes now take their cues from landscapes, flora, fauna, and everything in between. Among the multitude of colors, pastel mint green emerged as a popular choice in projects submitted by the ArchDaily community. This soothing hue, reminiscent of nature's serenity, adds a touch of freshness to interior spaces.
Neo-Brutalism
Off The Grid Apartment / DOT. Image © Ishita Sitwala
Working Among Classics - New office Space / larob. studio für architektur. Image © Brigida González
Inspire Hub Hybrid Office / DQV Architects. Image © Valor Studio
Exhibition Hall in the Attic of the Olomouc Archdiocesan Museum / Šépka architekti. Image © Aleš Jungmann
A resurgence of Neo-Brutalism has been observed in the world of interior design. This style, characterized by rawness and a bold use of concrete, finds its beauty in honest and unadorned materials. As a reaction to the extravagant designs of previous years, 2023 celebrates simplicity and a reevaluation of wealth and extravagance. Architects have embraced the structural and symbolic power of straight lines and sharp edges, bringing forth a sense of strength and solidity to spaces.
Metallic Surfaces
diagonal Store / oftn studio. Image © Choi Young Joon
Domaine UMA Winery / Agence Clausel-Borel Architecte. Image © Nicolas Borel
Bakery “Chlieb Náš” / Sadovsky & Architects. Image © Matej Hakár
CoCo Cha Taiwan Tea & Coffee - White Lantern / PT Arch Studio. Image Courtesy of Nguyen Van Phuoc Thinh & CoCo Cha Team
The allure of metallic surfaces has captivated designers in 2023, adding an air of sophistication and glamour to interior spaces. From shimmering gold to sleek silver and lustrous brass, these reflective materials create a striking visual impact. Metallic surfaces effortlessly infuse a touch of luxury into any design, making them a popular choice for both commercial and residential projects.
Grid Framework
ICÔNE Collaborative Office Complex / Foster + Partners. Image © Nigel Young
The Reversible Shop / Francesca Perani Enterprise + Bloomscape Architecture. Image © Francesca Perani
Dabang Café / one-aftr. Image © Jang Mi
Tanizaki’s Shadows Apartment / Chris Briffa Architects. Image © Hanna Briffa
The use of grid frameworks has seen a resurgence in 2023, providing a visually striking organization of space. Architects have embraced the order and structure that grids offer, creating a harmonious balance between form and function. This approach allows for flexible and efficient floor layouts while emphasizing a central feature element within the space.
Accent Geometric Tiles
Cafe good & goody / design by 83. Image © Dong-gyu Kim
Sangdeh Villa / AsNow Design & Construct. Image © Nimkat Studio
© Felco
Godshot Coffee Odesa / Petrossjan Architecture Studio. Image © Petrossjan Architecture Studio
Geometric tiles have taken center stage in interior design, adding a playful and dynamic element to spaces. These tiles are used to create captivating accent walls and fit-outs. Architects and designers have utilized vibrant colors and eye-catching patterns to draw attention and create visual interest. Geometric tiles are an excellent way to inject personality and character into any interior.
Color of the Year: Pastel Mint Green
La Cuadra Extension / Un Estudio Propio. Image © Alex Lafuente
Sandbox Films / Civilian Projects. Image © Chris Mottalini
Tertulia Bar and Restaurant / Otherworlds. Image © Suryan // Dang
Villette Apartment / miogui. Image © Philippe Billard
Every year, a color emerges as the trendsetter, influencing interior design choices. In 2023, pastel mint green took center stage, captivating designers with its calming and refreshing qualities. This subtle hue adds a touch of serenity to any space, creating a tranquil and inviting atmosphere. Pastel mint green has proven to be a versatile color, effortlessly blending with various design styles and enhancing the overall visual appeal of interiors.
Wood Everywhere
Light Box House / NatureHumaine. Image © Ronan Mézière
Vonzrr Café / Sherpa. Image © In and Out
ORIGINAL CONCEPT Studio Office / Shire Space Research. Image © Here Space Photography
Solar Trees Marketplace / Koichi Takada Architects. Image © Eiichi Kano
Wood has made a significant comeback in 2023, bringing warmth and a sense of nature into interior design. From floors to furniture and wall claddings, wood can be found in every corner of spaces. This material adds a timeless charm, creating a cozy and inviting ambiance. Architects and designers have expertly incorporated wood into various design styles, showcasing its versatility and ability to create harmonious environments.
Offset Plan with a Central Element
Gastro Circuit / one-aftr. Image © Jang Mi
coldframe Café / Sherpa. Image © In and Out
Winenara Seongsu Store / Studio Prepro. Image © Donggyu Kim
Readellion Bookstore / prototype. Image © Yevhenii Avramenko
In 2023, interior design embraced the offset plan, centered around a key element within a space. This approach allows for the floor layout, circulation, and displays to revolve around a focal point, creating a captivating and immersive experience. Architects and designers have skillfully utilized this concept in commercial spaces, enhancing the overall flow and visual impact.
Redefined Open Spaces: Modularity and Levels
East West House / Bloot Architecture. Image © Jeroen Musch
Ground Work Space / INTG.. Image © Yongjoon Choi
CFE Office / locallll. Image © VuenVille + BCDF Studio
Medifer Office / Impepinable Studio. Image © David Frutos
Open spaces have undergone a redefinition in 2023, adapting to the needs of privacy and modularity. Architects have created versatile environments that provide flexibility and adaptability through the use of levels and modular furniture. These spaces offer individuals the freedom to personalize and configure their surroundings, ensuring a comfortable and efficient use of space.
The Revival of Midcentury Modern
Juno Restaurant / Rawan Muqaddas + Selma Akkari. Image © Oculis Project
Toto Ipanema / Tadu Arquitetura. Image © João Duayer
Fugazzi Basement Bar / studio gram. Image © Timothy Kaye
Casa Patios / Ricardo Yslas Gámez Arquitectos. Image © Jaime Navarro
The timeless appeal of Midcentury Modern design has made a triumphant comeback in 2023. Architects and designers have embraced the nostalgic charm of this style, reimagining its elements to fit contemporary contexts. Midcentury Modern-inspired interiors celebrate clean lines, organic forms, and a harmonious integration of indoor and outdoor spaces. This revival pays homage to the past while infusing spaces with a sense of timelessness.
Honorable Mention: Skylights and Playful Shadows
Nhà Voi 7 Gardens House / DA VÀNG studio. Image © Minq Bui
Nhà Voi 7 Gardens House / DA VÀNG studio. Image © Minq Bui
Masjid Bab Al Salam / Altqadum. Image © Firas Al Raisi
Gómez House / Jorge Garibay Arquitectos. Image © César Belio
Skylights and playful shadows have garnered an honorable mention in the interior design trends of 2023. These architectural elements introduce an interplay of natural light and shadow, creating captivating and ever-changing atmospheres within spaces. Skylights bring in an abundance of daylight while allowing people to connect with the sky above. The resulting playful shadows add depth and drama, transforming interiors into enchanting environments.
These ten design trends have left a significant mark on the interior spaces of 2023. From earth-inspired color palettes to the revival of Midcentury Modern design, each trend reflects the shifting preferences and values of our time. As we continue to witness the evolution of interior design, it is essential to embrace the ever-changing landscape and seek inspiration from the world around us. Let these trends guide and inspire your own design journey, as we enter a new era of creativity and innovation within the built environment.
This article is part of the ArchDaily Topics: Year in Review, presented by Randers Tegl. "When creating unique architecture, visionary ideas aren’t always enough. A unique look demands character, courage, and distinctive materials. And a format to achieve the extraordinary. At Randers Tegl, we aim to add a unique touch to exceptional brickworks by bringing premium bricks to life and into the world of architecture. Making the impossible possible. We are proud to be a part of unique architecture worldwide since 1911." Every month we explore a topic in-depth through articles, interviews, news, and architecture projects. We invite you to learn more about our ArchDaily Topics. And, as always, at ArchDaily, we welcome the contributions of our readers; if you want to submit an article or project, contact us.
