Top New Interior Textile Trends for 2016

Here are Santa Barbara Design Center’s trends and styles for interior textiles for 2016. We found that the trends this year are unique with such richness of expression, color, placement and aesthetic. For example Art Deco inspired shapes and patterns will be making a bold comeback this year – so look for geometry patterns or honeycomb shapes (check out these from Duralee Fabrics) to weave their way into fabrics, wall paper or even artwork.

Another trend is the use of outdoor fabric used indoors; these are becoming increasingly hard to differentiate from traditional indoor fabrics.   They are being used inside, where their durability makes them perfect for high-traffic dining room and living room furniture, (And they are great for kids with spillages!)

We will also be seeing a lot of Nubby wool rugs or other natural fibers. These will be the go-to texture for 2016, especially for area rugs. Scandinavian Flat Weaves will also be making a comeback as well. With their elegantly balanced geometric influences, these rugs are a sophisticated answer to the universal neutrals and sisals. We love that they hold a little folklore with the stories they weave all the while also give way to adapting to both contemporary and traditional interiors.

In 2016, look for brocades, tapestries and Georgian and Empire antiques. Fringe, cording and tassels will be a fad this year by softening Modern upholstery’s hard edges. The comeback of dramatic drapes will also be a trend. “Rooms without curtains are like a man in a suit without shoes,” said British designer Kathryn M. Ireland, we quite agree – time to get back to some old world values and traditions with some old world ornamentation! Let the rooms dazzle you with some tassel!

Trends to ditch from 2016: Burlap is too harsh for indoor use, and is far overplayed for another year in the spotlight. Instead, the trend will gravitate toward softer natural fibers that are more suitable for throw blankets, pillows and rugs.

Chalkboard paint was not built to last 2016. Chalkboards smudge easily, and unless decorated with perfect handwriting, is usually not the best way to label household items.

Sisal And Jute, these two types of fiber rugs will go out of style. Sisals are the tougher but also the rougher. Not soft or cushy on bare feet and are not very child- or pet-friendly, because you can see every stain, which is impossible to get out. And jute lacks durability.

We hope to see you soon to help you with your new trend for 2016.  Come in anytime to the Santa Barbara Design Center!