Guest post- Interior design trends for 2014!

This post is provided by Ella Mason.

Last year we saw a lot of bright prints and colors coming into the interiors scene. All these styles have evolved, some have got brighter while some softer elements have been brought to others. Here are some of the trends to look out for this year.

Parquet floors

Wooden floors are always going to be popular (for inspiration, take a look at Easy Step Flooring) but one of the big trends this year is parquet flooring. The patterned floor trend is big at the moment and a great take on that is this kind of wooden flooring. The distinctive geometric style is striking but has a distinct elegance to it.

Copper

Copper accents play on the metallic trend from the catwalk and this can be pulled off in so many ways. Think light fixtures, taps, kitchen accessories, cushions and more.

Copper fixtures look great against dark walls for a raw, industrial look.

Tropical

Botanical prints have gone further with bright, bold tropical designs. If you want to ease yourself into this trend, go for printed cushion covers. If you want to go all out, reupholster a chair in one of these prints.

There is so much you can do with this trend from the fabrics and accessories to turning your home into a tropical paradise with a few well-placed plants.

Soft furniture

Minimalist, retro styles are out and comfort is in. Plush sofas and armchairs, piled high with cushions, are now a living room staple. You need somewhere you can relax and enjoy your time in your own home. For once, it really is comfort over style.

That is not to say all soft, comfy sofas are ugly – quite the opposite in fact. Go for a plain sofa that comes with lots of cushions. From there you can add more or introduce blankets for an added soft touch.

If you do not want to buy a new sofa, simply stock up on cushions in varying sizes and lots of fluffy throws.

Mixed patterns

A lot of country homes do this perfectly but the trend is finally transferring to the rest of the interiors market. Do not worry so much about only having one statement print or having prints that match. Instead, buy the things you like. As long as there is a common color, you can not go wrong.

Mix florals, stripes, polka dots and more. Do not be afraid to experiment and try something new.

Navy

It does not matter how you use it, this is the color that everyone is talking about. Use it on your walls, buy a navy chair or simply go for that navy vase you have had your eye on. How far you take this is completely up to you and your current home décor.