Editorial Features
Trend 6: Globally Inspired
The WNWN 2020 Trend Report features the top nine design trends for today as told by the WNWN Ambassadors, a group of 94 designers from across the country. From prioritizing a sense of calm at home to creating mixed period style interiors, these nine trends will reign supreme through 2020 and 2021.
![WNWN Trend Report_The Rug Company](https://nydc.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/WNWN-Trend-Report_The-Rug-Company.jpg)
The Rug Company, photo courtesy of The Rug Company
![WNWN Trend Report_Beth Diana Smith](https://nydc.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/WNWN-Trend-Report_Beth-Diana-Smith.jpg)
Beth Diana Smith, photo by Mike Van Tassel
What does globally-inspired design mean? It means incorporating décor elements that show appreciation for different cultures worldwide. And while international travel still remains uncertain, there’s no better time to restyle your home with textiles or goods representative of your favorite cultural influence. Read on to learn why our WNWN Ambassadors predict globally inspired interiors will remain among the top trends this year.
“As part of my profession, my prediction for the design industry is that we’ll become a community that celebrates a variety of people and perspectives! We’ll start to create meaningful opportunities for anyone interested in design, no matter the color of their skin or socio-economic background. It will be so much richer when we begin to have important conversations around how to make a career in design accessible to all of the talent that exists outside of small circles. I am excited to see a more diverse, inclusive industry!”
–Liz Caan of Liz Caan & Co
“What I see new/next in design is more focus on, support and funding for Black artists, designers and makers to launch long-awaited or previously derailed collections, that had been met with lots of obstacles in the past, because of a lack of inclusion. I see a less obstructed path for Black creatives to take back control of the narrative around what is Black creativity? As a result, we will also start to see more exposure of existing and new products, innovation, etc. come from not just African Americans but from the diaspora. Some of these new product collections have been percolating or underway since prior to Spring of 2019. More designers will be able to ask by name for these product and service offerings; from fine art and rugs/textiles to wall coverings, bespoke furniture & lighting. Makers like Marie Burgos, Bradley Bowers and Jomo Tariku’s works will become iconic, like the works of Baughman and Saarinen. The Black aesthetic will become part of the regular offerings in architecture firms, design showrooms, galleries etc.”
-Erin Shakoor of Shakoor Interiors
“The success of the industry depends on interior designers and architects being advocates for design equity—thoughtful design that impacts all lives, not just luxury design for the affluent. We must champion more curated spaces that tell the story of black and brown communities and develop a more Afrocentric design vernacular. We need teams of more diverse designers and influencers creating environments that make everyone’s lives better authentic outcomes that are true to their origins.”
-Kia Weatherspoon of Determined by Design
“For me, “What’s Next” is a focus on cultural design and embracing one’s ethnicity, background, and traditions instead of opting for a Eurocentric aesthetic. I think we are going to witness a celebration of who we are culturally, and beautifully, reflected in our homes in new and creative ways. I also believe that organic elements will be represented more sculpturally in both furniture and décor as we look to bring the outdoors in.”
-Beth Diana Smith of Beth Diana Smith Interior Design
“With a screaming desire for inclusion and diversity in the design industry on the forefront, I predict a brilliant mosaic of global designers and their work being more broadly displayed, supported and sold! This will add needed vibrancy to the industry. The result will be more cultured and interesting pages in the shelter magazines. Wouldn’t that be wonderful!”
-Joy Moyler of Joy Moyler Interiors