Designers declare this neutral “done”

Sherwin-Williams surveyed over 400 professional interior designers and asked them what would be in and what would be out for 2022.* Do you agree with their takes? For the full survey results and additional designer commentary, reach out to Sherwin-Williams@clynch.com.

White and gray end their reign

When asked what one trend would be “out” for 2022, many of the designers surveyed jumped on the prevalence of white and gray over the past few years. Out of 414 anonymous designer responses:

• 30% mentioned gray (125)
• 18% mentioned white (75)

Another trend designers are seeing less of? Farmhouse style. Eleven percent (49) of the designer responses mentioned farmhouse style, barn doors or shiplap.

What other trends are getting a refresh?

Boho goes modern: “One trend I think we’ll see less of is the over-the-top bohemian look. It’s been done a lot and no longer feels as fresh. Same with Scandinavian simplicity. These are trends that have been popular for so long and we’re ready for something new. I anticipate next year people will still be excited about color, they’ll want to use more color in their designs. However, rather than having a maximalist feel, we’ll be seeing color used in very intentional, sleek and modern ways.” – Sue Wadden, director of color marketing at Sherwin-Williams

Open floor plans: “I love that we’re moving back into a clear delineation between rooms. While I still enjoy an open floor plan, having separate spaces offers more opportunity for creativity and design. I love creating a home’s color palette and aesthetic then working to seamlessly carry them both through separate spaces.” – Marie Flanigan, Marie Flanigan Interiors

What trends are in?

Sculptural pieces: “A trend that I see and love is sculptural furnishings where furniture becomes shapely, like pieces of art with curvy backs, unexpected shapes, etc. As people continue to invest in the function and beauty of their home, I expect us to see new methods of executing this and saying goodbye to more traditional furniture, colors and styles.” – Beth Diana Smith, Beth Diana Smith Interior Design

Soft colors and shapes: “I think the dusty pink and purple palettes will continue on into 2022. The blushes and mauves are a safe approach to color without leaning too dark. Rounded furniture edges have been pretty popular as well, so it will be nice to see large-scale furniture pieces take on a softer side without the density of sharp, squared-off corners.” – Eneia White, Eneia White Interiors

*Sherwin-Williams 2021 Designer Panel Survey of over 400 professional designers, July 2021