BY NG PAU LING
pauline@thestar.com.my

Interior decor trends come and go. The changes in design details and elements not only inspire a new mood but also reflects the current sentiment.

For home lovers who are looking for interior decorating tips, StarProperty.my has invited home and living tastemakers from interior design, lifestyle furniture and architecture industries to share tips on what is catching fire and what is losing lustre.

Ooi Design & Associates CEO Ooi Boon Seong.

“For me, the trend is how we combine the basic elements which will always be present to create a WOW effect and at the same time suit the current mood,” said Ooi Design & Associates Sdn Bhd chief executive director Ooi Boon Seong.

Also the Malaysian Institute of Interior Designers (MIID) deputy president, he commented that the increasing social media usage has begun influencing the lifestyle quality and improve the aesthetics practice among the public.

“People have started to appreciate fine details and uniqueness. In short, they want to own a home that is ‘Instagram-worthy’, which has scenes that are good enough to be posted on Instagram,” explained Ooi.

WHAT'S IN AND WHAT'S OUT?

#IN - Bespoke Style
Reveal who you are
Crafted and bespoke design is the direction, as we are moving into an era that appreciates fine details and perfect-fit features.

The bespoke design is made from scratch to fit the owner's specifications. It allows the combination of different elements and materials, with the ultimate goal of creating a space that reflects the characteristics and lifestyle preferences of the dweller.

“As a designer, we do not only design from the interior perspective, but also study the personality of the homeowner - the dressing and artwork they love; their hobbies, and even their beliefs.

“It inspires a bespoke design that is tailored to fit their likings and make them feel perfectly comfortable to live in the space,” said Ooi.

#IN - Matte finishes
Restrained and understatement
Glossy and shining finishes are on their way out. While the subtle matte finishes that absorb light with minimal reflection has become the sophisticated alternative.

“The shining, sparkling high-polished finishes was once the symbol of antiquity and luxury. However, people now are embracing a moderate, gentle and thoughtful lifestyle that has led to the matte finishes trend to create depth and restrained ambience,” said Ooi.

Whether you’re picking out floor tiles, stone tabletop, kitchen backsplash, wardrobe handles or new wall shades, the not overly show-off matte finishes is the right way to go.

“Apart from the interior design world, matte finishes are also trendy in the cosmetic, luxurious watches and cars design,” said Ooi.

Source: Banlan

#IN - Bold statement furniture
Fearless and dare to be bold
|The bold and strong palettes such as bright red, royal blue, green and yellow are bringing a vivacious cheer to the interior space in 2019.

“For example, arrange a set of a big, bright red sofa at the centre of your living room to be the focal point of your home,” said Ooi.

Previously, these bold palettes generally appeared on the small piece furniture to adorn the atmosphere or being painted on the wall as the background of the home. However, this year, the intense colours are going to be seen in the significant furniture piece such as a sofa to make a striking statement to the aesthetics.

“After the changes, we have experienced over the past few years, in 2019, people are longing for a more cheerful atmosphere. The bold colours have come on time to boost the mood and increase energy level.

“Even for wall colour, we are inclined to use dark and strong colours, such as dark green,” said Ooi.

Source: Banlan

#IN - Modern Chinese furniture
A mix of the old and new
Original China’s designer furniture has extended their influence to the local design market, and it deserves an attention.

“Apart from the familiar brands from Europe, the Chinese original furniture brands are emerging to offer more options when designing your home,” said Ooi.

The new generation of Chinese designers has combined the deep cultural heritage of China and contemporary aesthetics, to reach new heights in modern Chinese living.

Banlan, for instance, is one of the high-end furniture brands based in China that meets the world-class standards.

Established in 2009, the company covers from research and development to manufacturing and sales. The products are not designed for mass-production but focus on craftsmanship to transform the authentic designs into reality.

“They redefine the ‘made in China’ quality,” said Ooi.

Source: Furnipart

#IN - Black with textures
Details matter
In the sanitary or bathroom fitting design,  such as tap handle, showerhead and towel rail, the black colour with textures are making their mark this year.

“Black is a never-go-out-of-date colour. It can be simple in form and shape, but attention should be given to the detail and texture of the material to let the decor shine,” said Ooi.

Some of the fittings are still in shiny steel but have shifted focus to hairline finish rather than a polished finish.

#OUT - Rose Gold
The rose gold has faded out, slowly but surely. If you want to add a touch of glamour to space, the matte gold with the rustic and vintage feel is the trendy one.

“You can apply it on the trimming as a supplementary ornament, rather than putting this metallic accent in a junk piece,” said Ooi.

#OUT - Flora Curtain
The ready-made graffiti and flora print curtain (even the relatively nice ones), can instantly make any home feel outdated.

“Get rid of unnecessary decoration and focus on the function,” says Ooi. “Most of our clients, now prefer to have the plain, minimalist curtain.”

No more lace and complicated graphics, the focus now is on the texture and weaving pattern of the fabric.