Rug in the spotlight, wellness corner, bed skirts, and other trends that excite us now

Your rug has something to say

In recent years, rugs have taken on a new, elevated role in interior design, and the trend only improves as it evolves. This subtle, sound-softening assistant has become a brilliant focal point that can uplift the entire vibe of a room. A boldly, unconventionally, or asymmetrically patterned rug enhances even a pared-back interior and adds depth and intrigue to it.

One of my favorites is the new ‘Magical Garden’ wool rug from Layered’s Poppykalas collection, which is like an abstract painting spread out on the floor. Another wonderful example is Finarte’s ‘Sula’, whose color options are especially enticing.

— Kari-Otso Nevaluoma, Editor in Chief, Design & Decoration and Build & Renovate

‘Magical Garden’ wool rug by Layered.

Finarte’s ‘Sula’ rugs are responsibly handmade in India.

Patterns at the forefront

Many patterns by traditional wallpaper companies have been cherished for generations. There is something strangely intimidating about wallpapering, so I am always delighted when patterns appear on new objects: this trend brings them playfully into everyday life.

Some current examples of items decorated with patterns are Havi napkins with William Morris’s patterns and trays with patterns by Tapettitehdas Pihlgren ja Ritola.

— Arja Kuittinen, Content Producer, Design & Decoration and Build & Renovate

As a pattern lover, I wholeheartedly welcome Boråstapeter’s lampshades with wallpaper prints.

This large round tray features the ‘Perhonen’ pattern, designed by Ritva Kronlund for Pihlgren ja Ritola in the 1960s.

Space does you good

The wellness boom is evident at home. International trend forecasts emphasize having your own yoga or meditation area, a dedicated home wellness space.

In an ideal situation, you could devote an entire room to relaxation and self-care. It would be nearly empty and bright, with windows framing a beautiful view of nature. Surfaces would be wood or other natural materials, and the only items might be a yoga mat and a few large houseplants.

However, even a dedicated corner in a room will do. You can now easily justify your personal space by citing its wellness benefits.

— Miia Kauhanen, Managing Editor, Design & Decoration and Build & Renovate

Villa Mandala [in Finnish] features a tall, bright yoga studio.

Could you clear a corner for a workout space—perhaps in the bedroom?

New skirt for the bed

My fondness for bed skirts arose out of necessity. We bought a box spring bed made from natural materials, which our late dog loved so much that she often lay next to the bed on the floor. A large dog sheds quite a bit, so we needed some protection for the mattress. And thus, the bed skirt found its way into our home.

There’s a lot to love about a bed skirt. It brings a polished look to the bedroom, adds structure to the bed, and conceals the base to protect it from dust and wear. This spring, there are plenty of options for bed skirts. If you love color and patterns, you can match the entire bed—skirt included—to your sheets. Or you can stick to solid-colored skirts.

Currently, our bed has a white skirt, but I’m dreaming of a blue-and-white checkered one. It would pair perfectly with mustard-colored checkered sheets [in Finnish].

— Natalia Rehbinder, Content Producer, DIY

A solid-colored bed skirt blends seamlessly with the rest of the decor.

If you love colors and patterns, you can fully outfit your bed with Ellos French linen bedding, including a matching skirt.

Red wine for the kitchen

After a long period dominated by gray and green, other colors are emerging in kitchen cabinetry. I’m especially taken with burgundy and other muted reds, which bring instant warmth to a space. Dark wood cabinets also feel fresh again.

A more furniture-like look prevails in the kitchen. An island does not have to resemble a typical island, and the plinths can differ from what we usually see in kitchens. You can see modern rustic romance in panel doors, glass-front cabinets, open shelves, and cozy details.

— Anu Karttunen, Managing Editor, Design & Decoration and Build & Renovate

In this Swedish Artilleriet kitchen, the gorgeous color and furniture-like island create a striking overall look.

This ‘Carl Larsson’ kitchen by Cupboards & Goods combines three delightful shades: dark green, pink, and sunshine yellow.