Maybe Joy is Actually the New Interior Design Trend

In the ever-evolving world of interior design, trends come and go with the changing seasons. From minimalist chic to coastal granny, these trends often dictate the decor choices of both new homeowners and seasoned decorators. But what if the real trend isn’t a trend at all? What if the most forward-thinking approach to design is simply to create spaces that bring us joy? There is certainly a lot of talk about authenticity these days, so what about being authentic to ourselves, our lives, and even the silly things that just light us up on a personal level?

The Problem with Following Trends

Trends can be exciting; they introduce new ideas and styles into our homes and inspire creativity. You see them repeatedly on social media with people living their best, most inspirational lives. Once we see that look enough times, it becomes a trend, but is it authentic to you? However, the excitement often fades as trends quickly become outdated or impersonal. The consequence? Spaces that don’t truly reflect the individual tastes and lifestyles of their inhabitants, leading to a cycle of constant redesign and dissatisfaction.

What Does Joy in Design Really Mean?

Designing for joy means creating spaces that resonate deeply with our lived experiences. It’s about rooms that greet us with warmth, objects that tell our stories, and the touchstones that connect us to people and places we love. This approach fosters a connection to our living environment that goes beyond the superficial appeal of trendy designs, nurturing our well-being and comfort.  These are rooms full of memories, little items that remind us of travel, birthdays, and people we love–like the funky quilt you have because your aunt made it, and you cherish her so much.  If it’s not beautiful, useful or has sentimental value, should it really be taking up space in your home?

How to Discover What Brings You Joy

To embark on a joy-driven design journey, start with introspection rather than inspiration from the latest design magazine or Instagram feed. Consider these steps:

1. Reflect on colors and textures that you naturally gravitate towards, regardless of their popularity.
2. Think about your most cherished possessions—what stories do they tell? How can they be featured in your home?
3. Evaluate your lifestyle needs. How can your space be arranged to support your daily activities and promote well-being?

Incorporating Personal Joy into Design

Turning your personal joy into a design framework doesn’t require a complete overhaul. Start small:

1. Integrate cherished items like family heirlooms or personal collections into your decor.
2. Choose wall colors that speak to you—perhaps a shade that reminds you of your favorite vacation or a serene location.
3. Arrange your furniture to facilitate your favorite activities, whether that’s a reading nook by the window or a large, welcoming table for family gatherings.

The Long-term Benefits of Joy-Driven Design

Designing for joy is not just about aesthetics; it’s about creating an environment where you feel truly at home. This approach can lead to more lasting satisfaction with your living space, reducing the urge to make frequent changes. Psychologically, living in a space that reflects your true self can enhance your overall happiness and peace of mind. Less frequent changes to keep up with trends also means less expense and less need for fast disposal furnishings and home accessories.

In the dynamic world of decor, perhaps it’s time to shift our focus from what’s trending to what’s enduring—our happiness. Let’s redefine the interior design narrative to one where joy is the trend that never goes out of style.

Have you designed a space around what truly makes you happy? Share your stories or photos with us, or reach out if you’re looking for guidance on how to personalize your home. Let’s inspire each other by celebrating spaces that are crafted with joy at their heart.