It’s almost here! Canada’s design fair, the Interior Design Show (IDS14) will be returning to Toronto January 23-26, and Girls of T.O. has an inside look at some of the inspiration, highlights and industrial design trends that will soon be making their way into homes everywhere.

I for one am a huge fan of contemporary meets industrial design, which you will see all of at IDS, and you can often tell that that has been my space inspiration in more than one room in my home.

Here are some trends you won’t want to miss from both emerging and established designers.

Lighting

One of my current obsessions is lighting – the bigger and more ornate the better. That’s why I was over the moon to see that lighting has taken centre stage lately; no longer the sidekick when it comes to home décor planning. Lighting has become a major influencer in a space’s overall look and feel and many designers are now using lighting as their inspiration behind a room, rather than a final touch to it.

Images from left: Kartell, Lladro

Understated Lux


I love the idea that luxury is still playing a prominent role in interiors, because I truly believe that your space should be your sanctuary. I also love that modern luxury promotes quality material and design, so it’s not just about style, but also substance. The intent is to create a space and furnishings with a luxurious feel not just look.

Image: Moroso

Contemporary Canadiana

Like Scandinavian design that continues to be so on trend, Canadiana draws on its natural environment as it’s inspiration, but is way more warm and inviting – I feel. The Canadian designers featured at IDS have found a way to create pieces that represent our culture, are warm, beautiful and sophisticated all at the same time.

Images from left: Brothers Dressler, EhoEho

Material Matters

This year designers are giving quality materials some much deserved attention, with a focus on porcelain floors, tiled rooms and wood paneling (but, this is definitely not your 70s wood paneled basement).

Image: Ceragres

Heavy Metal & Wood

Images from left: Kartell, Innit Designs

Then there’s metal and wood, two of my absolute favourite materials to incorporate into a space – after concrete. Whether it’s metallic, chrome, polished, rustic, textured or galvanized – metal is a great way to add a bit of edge to a space. And, if you’re eco-conscious, or simply love the look of natural wood, you will be pleased to know that reclaimed and repurposed wood is still a huge trend in 2014.

Images from left: Di Cintio, The Federal

Indoor Outdoor

Transitioning from indoors to outdoors, more and more people are investing money in the design of their outdoor space regardless if it’s a terrace, balcony or backyard. They are creating a secondary living or dining area that rivals their spaces indoors – and why not? This year you’ll find bright colours and relaxed mesh dominating outdoor trends and I for one am excited by the possibilities of spending more time outdoors in a space I love. Can’t wait for Spring!

Images from left: Moroso, The Federal

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