Trend pointers for 2021.

When Pantone announced their trend colours for 2021 it seemed to sum up the direction many interior trends are heading - essentially it's Yellow and Grey. Pantone described the partnership as "Practical and rock solid but at the same time warming and optimistic"

It's not about a simple direction of colour use in itself but more about the combo effect and a move towards less and more minimal, with flashes of bold.

These days there is a definite trend toward seeking out the 'not the everyday' and a focus on finding those autograph accessories that put personality into a home. It's not necessarily saying there's a design trend that shoehorns into any style of house - but there is a move toward- for want of a better word 'contemporary retro' and in many ways that's about bringing out the best of your house style and adding flourish. A bit of funky with a bit of tradition.

A pointer is how we mix that ying and yang - the 'yellow and grey' effect. Whilst retro colours are still in vogue (yep that does sound contradictory!) - the counter tends to be strong patterns, whether that's throws, wallpaper or cushions etc - but there's a leaning towards letting rooms breath and a more minimalist style than big big statements.

If there's been any encouraging signs during these restrictive times it's that people have found time to search more online and realise that the big high street brands don't have it all their own way when it comes to seeking out the unusual. The artisan effect is taking effect and there is that desire to understand who made it, where it came from and certainly for personal style a sense that mass produced isn't where everyone wants to be at. So that's good news for the small but beautiful retailers!

Of course, these are just pointers, but we all need a little bit of inspiration when it comes to how you want to surround yourself in your den. But as far as 2021 is concerned we like the sentiment of "Practical and rock solid but at the same time warming and optimistic"