Interior design professionals are increasingly focused on materials that combine aesthetics, durability, and affordability. Three designers recently shared their current favorite materials, revealing trends toward cozy textures, low-maintenance luxury, and relaxed elegance. These choices reflect a broader shift in home design prioritizing both style and practical living.
Bouclé: The Versatile Texture
Bouclé remains a top pick for its ability to blend with diverse styles—from modern organic to mid-century and farmhouse aesthetics. Courtney Crook, co-founder of Arden Design House, emphasizes its warmth and softness, noting that bouclé delivers a high-end look without the luxury price tag. Its looped texture adds comfort, and now, pet-friendly versions improve durability, making it suitable for busy households. Designers use bouclé across furniture—accent chairs, sofas, headboards, and pillows—because it consistently balances form and function.
Marble Effect Porcelain: Luxury Without the Stress
Shaqueria Dial, CEO of S.D. Designs, champions marble effect porcelain as a practical alternative to real marble. Today’s porcelain slabs convincingly mimic the veining and movement of natural stone, offering the same visual luxury without the high cost or maintenance. Dial highlights that clients no longer need to worry about damage from everyday use—a key advantage in high-traffic zones like kitchen islands and entryways. The material delivers style without the anxiety.
Linen: Effortless Liveable Luxury
For Christy Day, owner of Christy Day Designs, linen embodies “liveable luxury.” Linen warms spaces, creating a relaxed yet polished feel. Day notes its versatility, layering easily with other materials like silk, cotton, or velvet. Linen stands out as an economical way to elevate a room while maintaining an effortless aesthetic. Designers use it throughout homes in various forms—from drapery to upholstery—leveraging its ability to enhance both comfort and style.
Ultimately, these materials represent a trend toward functional elegance in home design. Designers are prioritizing choices that offer beauty without compromising on practicality, reflecting a broader consumer demand for spaces that look great and work well for real life.
