2011 Trend Tips by Interior Designer Ben Huckerby

Social occasions are likely to see more of us staying at home than painting the town red in 2011, with the VAT increase hitting hard. Leading interior designer and Northern Design Award Winner Ben Huckerby offers his key trends to make your home the place to be seen this year.

Colours

Vibrant coloured linens are the core fabric throughout the house from bedding and curtains to cushions and throws. There seems to be a pattern in tough economic times - light and airy fabrics come into trend, representing warmth and happiness. Vibrant, sunny colours can lift the darkest of moods.

The light textured fabrics contrast well with another key trend - dark walls. Slate grays and metallics are key colours for paints, wallpapers and wall coverings. They add an air of sophistication, but alongside vibrancy, also an element of cosiness, something we all need when trying to keep fuel bills down.

Bright, vivid accessories in colours such as orange, red and yellow see cushions, blinds, light fittings and table decorations all add to the contrasting colour palette.

Style

High gloss kitchens were the most sought after style in 2010 and this will be continued throughout 2011. A lacquer finish gives a chic and sophisticated feel.

The high gloss trend has been continued into the bathroom and 2011 will see white, dark, red and rosewood veneer as the main colours that will create a sumptuous feel.

Eco-living

Home owners will find more innovative ways to bring tranquility to their interior and exterior environments. The use of natural materials and finishes will always be a trend that doesn’t go out of style. With old wood being used to create tables to recycled plastics for accessories, being eco-friendly can not only save money, but adds a bespoke arty edge.

Being green in 2011 may outweigh buying brand new with the onset of finding better ways to re-cycle and re-purpose. While a shiny new glass table may be beautiful, the shift for décor to use glass from a previous purpose will prevail. We will not stop buying new décor, but the satisfaction of repurposing is always a better feeling, and will look great too.

Space Utilisation

There is a steady incline of increasing family conversation areas and spaces. Kitchens now incorporate an eating island area so children can do homework, play and watch parents cook. Living spaces are becoming more open to engage members of the family in different rooms and to make hosting social occasions much easier as no one is cooped up in the kitchen.

Garden

With lavish holidays taking a backseat for many, the garden will be a reflection of home owners' previous experiences abroad, mixing exotic plants and trees with soft lighting to create a serene feel. Bright cushions compliment garden furniture and dining alfresco in the warmer months will be key to successful entertaining.

Updating the home doesn't have to be expensive, shop around and visit antique and boutique stores for bargains. More than anything, don't lose sight of the desired effect. The home is a reflection of personality and personal touches make it a happier place to live as well as entertaining guests.

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Notes to Editors:

Ben Huckerby is available for further comment
The Ben Huckerby Design team won the accolade of Concept for Living's Best Interior Design at the Northern Design Awards 2010
The team won the accolade of Channel 5's 'Britain's Best Home' in 2008
For more information on Ben Huckerby, the team and clients visit www.benhuckerbydesign.co.uk

For more information please contact:

Chocolate PR

Helen MacGregor

helen@chocolatepr.co.uk

0113 236 1835