Santa Cruz is known for its harsh snowstorms and freezing winters—just kidding. But for many, the winter season is one of staying in, spending time with family and friends, and finishing up things in order to prepare for the end of the year. It’s also a time where we begin to think of little changes, updates, and improvements, especially around the home. 


While interior decorating trends might not move as quickly as, say, fashion, each year does see new styles come and go. As the year draws to a close, here are our top interior design trends for 2023. If you’re thinking of refreshing your space, consider some of the tips below. 


Beautiful room with yellow couch and pops of color

Pops of Color

While neutral tones in interior design have been a trend for many, many years. And neutrals have been pushed for good reason: they’re sleek, clean, easy to match, and pleasant to look at. The all-white kitchen, for example, has been a staple over the last decade, especially with the rise of minimalism.


2023 might see more use of color in different styles. Although entirely bright, vibrant rooms are probably still a bit too much for most, pops of color in accent pieces or scattered throughout the room will likely see even more popularity—in line with the previous years’ fixation on the 90s and the color green. With Pantone naming “Viva Magenta” (a bold red-purple) as the color of 2023, perhaps this year will be even brighter than we think!

Emphasis on Sustainability

This isn’t a new trend by any means, but it’s certainly one that will stick around. Certain trends, such as a color or style may not really matter in the grand scheme of things, but this is one that does. 


As we begin to strive to make personal changes to lower environmental impact in our everyday lives, we see this also extend to interior design. And this covers a lot of ground: from energy-saving options to recycled or pre-loved pieces! 


White room with tasteful, round accent pieces

Organic Forms and Textures

Now, this is an interesting one! In the past couple of years, many have reevaluated their priorities and rediscovered their love for the indoors. Using organic shapes, such as curves and arches, and textures, such as stone and wood, in design has become quite popular. 


Perhaps it is so well-liked because this is a trend that can fit a number of different personal styles and tastes. Contemporary kitchens are now seeing marble as a sought-after backsplash or countertop option, whilst furniture with soft curves is being increasingly popular. In any case, this trend doesn’t seem to be going anywhere anytime soon.

Rooms, Now With A New Purpose

For those lucky enough to have additional space in their homes, or the time to renovate, we’re seeing rooms being given a new light. 


This is another trend that has grown out from the pandemic, as many were taking up new hobbies or picked up old ones. Now we’re seeing spaces being transformed into office spaces, crafting or work rooms, designated exercise or play areas, and so much more. 


A typical rustic, cottagecore kitchen with dining table

The “Aesthetic”

Previously, hyper-specific categories for fashion, art, and design were a relatively niche concept, shared within the circles of younger generations. Recently, however, this trend has sort of broken through and become more recognized—and certain elements (textures, colors, etc.) have become trendy, especially as we seem to always take inspiration from previous decades!


Terms like “light/dark academia” or “cottagecore” are some that you’ve likely heard of. While this will likely never be mainstream, we are seeing more and more people steer away from minimalism, and instead craft their own alternative (perhaps chaotic to some!) style.


Searching for a dream home in the Santa Cruz County area for 2023? Get in touch with Lauren Spencer, the Santa Cruz real estate expert, today!


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