trends 2008

This year we see three different styles entering our homes: new traditionals mix natural textures to create a cosy feel, modern glamour contrasts pretty patterns with contemporary furniture, and sharp tailoring features clean lines. Whatever your style, be inspired and let the latest looks into your home

As seen in Good Homes Magazine

new traditionals

The new year sees a new take on classics to create a warm and inviting home. Colours span the neutral palette while layers of natural textures are key - mix wool, leather, rattan and wood for the ultimate cosy look

Vientiane jug, £62, Oka. Willow mohair throw in Smoke, £50, The White Company. Find similar Moroccan-style tray, £29.95, bowls, £6.50 each, all Liberty.Mugs, £9.50 each, Beth Stevens.
Clock, find similar large Union station clock, £130, Heal's. White leather discover album, £40, Liberty. Classic Scrabble, £32, and 300 Series Bakerlight telephone, £240, both After Noah.
'The new-traditionals trend reinvents British heritage. The mood is informal with the emphasis on texture and rich, muted colours. Modern basics sit well with antique market finds and family treasures. Add comfort and practicality with leather chairs and natural fabrics, and accessories, clocks and pictures with a touch of nostalgia.'
Gillian Farr, Design Manager for home, Laura Ashley


'We're seeing a craving for comfort and all things homely in 2008. Layer throws and cushions to provide warmth, and add antique-style accessories for the finishing touch.'
Hannah Deacon, Senior Stylist, Good Homes

modern glamour

A pared-down version of the boudoir look, sleek and contemporary sits neatly alongside pretty and feminine. Choose streamlined furniture and delicate, pretty fabrics in soft colours

Photo frames (from left): Tucana frame, £12, Habitat; clear, £19 (25 x 10cm), £12 (10 x 15cm), £15 (13 x 18cm), all Zara Home.
Headboard, £999, The Big Bed Company. Regal supreme mattress and divan bed, £4,000, Vi-Spring. Lace border bed linen, £35 for a double duvet cover set, Next. Hemstitch square pillowcases, £14, The White Company. Silk quilt in grey/pink, £195, Habitat.
'A metallic fabric cushion or bedspread is a great way to add glamour without needing to completely redecorate your room. Feminine pleats, pintucks, covered buttons and hand quilting add subtle and fuss-free detail. The sheen of glass in lamps and accessories adds a sleek, elegant look.'
Chrissie Rucker, Founder, The White Company


'Simplicity is key to new glamour. Keep clutter to a minimum to get the most out of the sleek surfaces, and you'll be surprised at how relaxing this can make your room feel.'
Hannah Deacon, Senior Stylist, Good Homes

sharp tailoring

Straight from fashion catwalks, the tailoring trend, with its smart pinstripes, monochrome palette and attention to detail, makes a perfect transition to the home this season

Writing desk with hand-painted finish, £1,800, and hoop-back upholstered chair, from £427, both Leporello. Pen pot, £34, Liberty. Laptop computer, from £1,299, Apple. Glass ball paperweight, from £7, Rapt at Oka. Leather desk letter holder, £40, Liberty. Chrome anglepoise desk lamp, £245, After Noah..
Hemnes daybed, £220, Ikea. Daybed, cushions and blinds made from Skye linen F5680/08, £49 per m, Osborne & Little, and Chester Buttermilk J532F-04, £29 per m, Jane Churchill.
'Decadent pleated curtains, trimmed cushions and button detailing are key trends for 2008. The look is based on a monochrome colour palette, with some subtle metallics added to give an edge to the scheme. Sharp, pinstriped wallpaper creates a sleek, tailored look that's perfect for creating this sophisticated interior style.'
Emily Mould, Design Director, Romo


'Trimmings on everything from soft furnishings to stationery are the secret to a successful tailored scheme. They ensure a neat balance of black and white and a really smart finish.'
Hannah Deacon, Senior stylist, Good Homes