14 2019 | TRENDS Wabi-Sabi Wabi-Sabi design is the Japanese- inspired interior trend that cel- ebrates imperfection. Halbert and Grilli predict that it will become one of the favorite styles in home décor, evoking optimism that accepts our imperfections and making the most of them. The principles of this philosophy are simplicity, irregularity, beauty in understatement, naturalness with- out artificiality, subtle elegance, freedom and calmness, imperma- nence and incompleteness. It cel- ebrates finding beauty in imperfec- tion. Wabi-Sabi shows up in popu- lar culture when movie stars reveal themselves in authentic ways with- out filters and makeup. We all want to be accepted for what we really are because being perfect is too stressful. Translated to interior design, Wabi- Sabi manifests in asymmetrical lay- outs, surfaces with texture and brush strokes, lime-washed finishes, hand- made products, as well as raw and natural materials. Wabi-Sabi colors include Blush, which creates soft and cozy rooms that make interiors feel warmer and welcoming. The vibrancy of spring is evident in mid-tone greens with a hint of yellow that evoke a sense of a fresh start. Waterwood™ by American Olean (seen on page 12) reflects the Wabi- Sabi trend. Inspired by European Bricola wood that graces the water- ways of Venice, Waterwood is not your everyday oak look. Natural imperfections are formed after years of water exposure and these details are what bring the character and charm to Waterwood. Graceful por- celain planks in 8” x 40” or a 1-1/2” hexagon mosaic are perfect comple- ments to uncommon designs. Revitalizing the Past In this trend, everything old is new again. Revitalizing the past is about romanticizing bygone times and bringing them back with fresh new design interpretations. We are seeing it not only in design but in TV shows like Downton Abbey, Outlander, Mad Men, The Goldbergs, as well as in establishments like speakeasy bars, cocktails and fashion. This trend draws on influences from the Victorian, Art Deco, Mid Century Modern, and Memphis eras. • Victorian – The romantic Victorian Era was characterized by drama, wealth and luxury. Victorian design is rich and bold with deep, satu- rated, moody colors and textures. Homes were decorated with lav- ish wallpaper patterns, like paisley, stripes or florals, and lush fabrics such as velvet. Wood in parquet and chevron patterns, encaus- tics and marbles graced floors. Victorians loved color and used it to create drama from room to room. Dramatic Victorian colors are saturated tones of black, purple, red, yellow, gray, emerald green and navy blue. On the softer side, Victorian hues include mauve, pow- COLOR TRENDS (continued) Wabi-Sabi Revitalizing the Past