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28th January 2021
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British Ceramic Tile looks at trends influencing interior spaces and surfaces in 2018
The trends for 2018 are a tale of two stories according to British Ceramic Tile's in-house design team. On one side, you have faded grandeur; interiors that have aged over time, revealing an inner beauty. Surfaces are worn and distressed, revealing layers of visual interest for a textural, natural look within an organic colour palette.
British Ceramic Tile's head of design and product, Claire O'Brien, explains:
"There is a real sense of excitement and confidence within interiors as we move into this year. Whatever someone's style, taste or personality, there is a look to suit - whether it's more aged and lived in, or something more bold and opulent."
Texture in abundance...
Perfection is in the imperfection with weathered surfaces a key look for 2018. A look associated with rural retreats and historic buildings, the trend is evolving; becoming more modern and industrial as it moves into our homes.
Texture is hugely important. Surfaces are timeworn, eroded by the years, adding character and depth. Walls appear as though they are crumbling, revealing layers of interest. Paint-effects such as ombre and dip-dyes deliver rustic charm while natural stone effects
continue to bring renewed textual interest. Brick, stone, faded marble and plaster effects all feature for a trend that brings back the faded glory of a bygone era.
Sumptuous surfaces...
Following on from the structured look seen last year, surfaces have developed, becoming three-dimensional with raised surfaces bringing shadow and depth to interior spaces. Shape and form are important, with every small curve and angle an integral part of the overall effect. Materials are natural and organic with ceramic and porcelain very much in demand.
A traditional neutral colour palette has been updated with dove greys and charcoals alongside soft clay and putty shades.
As a complete contrast, metals and mirrored effects continue to play a key role within design schemes, bringing opulence and decoration. Strong lines and grids are also a key focus, alongside deep dark shades of matt black to amplify the monochrome trend.
Mirrored-effects and metallic...
Reflective surfaces will be in demand in 2018, with mirrored accents and antiqued glass transforming interior spaces. Aged, distressed and tarnished, mirrored effects are brought back to life, with the old recycled into something new.
The high shine of glass has gone and been replaced by feminine, shimmering elements. Style directions are taken from the modern deco trend. Glass is teamed with dark woods and burnished metals to achieve the full masculine appeal, while white walls, beautiful blush accents and mottled, rounded surfaces create a more feminine aesthetic.
Brass is back...
Art Deco influences have given rise to a new metallic that is set to mesmerise interiors - brass. A warm, refined metal, brass changes gradually over time to reveal new depths. With its chameleon-like ability to age gracefully, brass will be seen in many different guises
from high shine, through to textured, hammered effects.
While some interiors will adopt accents of brass, others will fully embrace its stunning honey tones. A warm, adaptable metal, brass is the perfect partner to green. From rich emerald tones through to deep pine green, brass delivers sophistication and is the ideal accent to these luxe green shades.
Industrial evolution...
Industrial is a trend here to stay. Inspired by a passion for loft living and open spaces, the industrial trend has evolved this year, becoming more refined and stylized, combining several design influences into one. Raw, urban-design aesthetics have become more feminine once again, with smoother lines and a mixture of materials creating a more sophisticated space.
Interiors remain uncluttered with luxuriously smooth, polished surfaces such as marble and concrete alongside weathered materials for a reclaimed feel. Dark and light shades of grey,
neutral woods and warm metals are effortlessly combined for a style that offers real depth.
Natural light is central to the overall affect, opening up spaces with ease.
When it comes to colour black is back
A statement shade that never goes out of fashion, black is a design constant, but this year we're seeing a movement towards matt black with a gentleman's club feel. It's sleek and
sophisticated with a modern, minimalist interpretation. Clean lines create sharp silhouettes and strong graphical shapes, while large expanses of matt black are bold and daring.
Surfaces adopt the playful nature of pattern, with geometric and hexagonal designs delivering visual impact. Expect to see flourishes of high shine alongside matt finishes. A trend that is ultra-sleek and contemporary, it can also be made dramatic and glamorous through copper and jade green accents, which complement the dark shade beautifully.
Accessories will feature abstract lines with stark black and white contrasts.
Designs can be ordered and deliberate, or fun and full of energy. Expect to see all-white tiled surfaces broken up by strong grout lines in dark shades.
2nd March 2018