Those who follow luxury design trends have predicted that 2018 is the year of “maximalism.” Neutral and monochromatic color palettes will transition to bold, saturated colors. After all, the 2018 Pantone Color of the Year is Ultra Violet, a vivid shade of purple. Trend watchers are seeing a resurgence of wallpaper, mixed metal plumbing fixtures, and layering of brightly colored and patterned rugs.
From my perspective, I cannot confirm our St. Louis luxury real estate market has fully embraced the maximalism design trend. I have seen elements of this new style in our finest properties.
Wallpaper is making a resurgence, but this is not your mother’s wallpaper. The new papers are ultra-chic prints made with modern digital printing technology and textured fabric papers like silk and grasscloth. We see luscious accent walls covered with hand-painted Chinoiserie.
Brass and gold tone fixtures are making a comeback. Last year, we outfitted our bathrooms with minimalist chrome fixtures. Newer designs include more ornate hardware made of brushed and shiny gold fixtures or they are black matt plumbing finishes.
Are richer bolder colors replacing neutrals? Design trendsetters claim that beiges and taupes have become boring. Bold saturated hues are being introduced, particularly in accent roles.
What do you think? Are we prepared to “boldly go where no one has gone before?”.
