This One Home Decor Style Is Going to Become More and More Popular Throughout 2024, According to Interior Designers

If you've been scrolling through Instagram or flipping through a home decor magazine lately, you might have noticed a certain trend that's making waves and that fans all over are raving about. And, no, it isn't minimalist all-white rooms or that "sad beige" trend that so many Insta-designers seemed to go for. Instead, it seems homeowners are way more worried about one thing: comfort.

Want to know more? Interior designers tell Parade more about the design trend that is going to continue growing in popularity throughout 2024, including how to easily get the look.

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This Home Decor Style Will Be Everywhere Throughout 2024, According to Interior Designers

Say goodbye to the sleek, minimalist look and hello to " Comfort Design "—a blend of Cottagecore and Granny Chic that's set to dominate interior design throughout 2024. It’s not just about aesthetics; it's about creating a space that feels like a warm hug.

Cottagecore is all about bringing the countryside into your home. Think floral prints, wooden furniture, and a touch of vintage charm. Granny Chic, on the other hand, takes it a step further by incorporating elements that remind you of your grandmother’s house—crochet blankets, porcelain teapots and embroidered cushions. The combination of both styles emphasizes comfort, nostalgia and a sense of coziness that modern designs often lack.

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Why Is This Design Style Growing in Popularity?

Francine Hsu Davis , a seasoned interior designer, architect and owner of Francine Hsu Davis Designs , puts it best, “Our recent timelines often use the pandemic as a marker. Even before the pandemic, there was already a budding design that was not modern or sleek—for example, the rise of maximalism and bohemian style a la Justine Blakeney. There was already a thirst for something with personality and not the sleek showroom feel. The 'P' word really pushed us from thirsty to parched for design that is comfortable, thoughtful and sustainable.”

People are spending more time at home, thanks to remote work and flexible schedules. "Perhaps it was the Zoom boom that made people more self-conscious of the space they occupied and framed them in their meetings," Hsu Davis adds.

This prolonged time at home has shifted our priorities to creating spaces that are not only beautiful but also functional and comfortable.

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The Shift from Resale Value to Personal Comfort

Gone are the days when people designed their homes purely with resale value in mind. According to Bree Steele , an interior designer RJ Living , “People are starting to prioritize their own personal comfort and emotional connection over maintaining a home solely for resale value.”

This shift is allowing individuals to make design choices that reflect their personalities and bring them joy, rather than adhering to a neutral, resale-friendly aesthetic.

A Nod to Nostalgia

Jodi Peterman from Elizabeth Erin Designs explains, “In an age of constant change and digital overload, people are yearning for the simplicity and warmth of the past. Comfort design evokes nostalgia, offering a sense of security and familiarity by incorporating elements reminiscent of childhood homes or grandparents' houses.”

This desire to reconnect with quieter times and the past is driving the trend.

Sustainability and Thrifting

Sustainability is another significant factor.

“The trend aligns with a growing interest in sustainability and thrifting. Reusing and repurposing vintage items not only reduces waste but also adds unique character to spaces,” Peterman points out.

Thrifted items bring a sense of history and individuality that mass-produced items simply can’t match.

Comfort and Functionality

The pandemic has made us realize the importance of comfort and functionality in our homes.

“After spending significant time at home due to global events, there's a greater emphasis on creating spaces that are not just visually pleasing but also comfortable and functional,” Peterman reiterates.

People are now choosing designs that make them feel at ease in their own homes.

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Products That Fit Into This Style

Chintz

Hsu Davis suggests looking for “chintz," which she describes as "classic, sophisticated floral prints.”

According to the Cambridge Dictionary , "chintz" is defined as "cotton cloth, usually with patterns of flowers, that has a slightly shiny appearance."

This type of design is perfect for creating that cozy, inviting atmosphere.

Florals (And Not Just Print)

With so many people picking up hobbies during the pandemic, gardening naturally became pretty big, and it is a fairly large part of cottagecore (though you can get by even if you don't have a green thumb!) Incorporating a lot of greenery and floral fillers throughout your house is a great way to lean into the look.

And don't worry if things look a bit cluttered, that is part of the charm!

Vintage Finds

Steele recommends incorporating vintage finds into your decor. “With the emphasis on comfort and character being important, pieces of furniture with a history and timelessness are commonly seen. This is usually with things like armchairs, mirrors, and coffee tables.”

These items bring a sense of history and uniqueness to your space.

Handcrafted and Artisanal Pieces

Hsu Davis also highlights the importance of artisanal and handmade items. “Well-made pieces that become more beautiful with age” are essential. Look for items that tell a story and add a personal narrative to your space.

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Stores to Shop for Comfort Design

Anthropologie

Known for its eclectic and vintage-inspired pieces, Anthropologie offers a range of furniture and decor that fits perfectly with the comfort design trend. Quality pieces with vintage charm are their forte.

Etsy

The online marketplace is a treasure trove for unique, handmade and vintage items. It’s an excellent place to find one-of-a-kind pieces that add character to your home.

HomeGoods

Another great place to find some cute Comfort Design pieces is HomeGoods, which has the bonus of often being a bit less expensive than some of the other store-bought options on this list! Pay attention to special drops and join local groups as they'll often be able to give you some great heads up when new stuff comes in!

Hobby Lobby

Hobby Lobby is home to all things kitschy and, dare we say it, a bit 'dated' (but in a good way, in this instance!) You can usually find something that hits that cottage core sweet spot here.

Local Thrift Stores and Flea Markets

Nothing beats exploring local thrift stores and flea markets. These places are ideal for discovering hidden gems that bring history and charm to life in your home. Online sources like 1stdibs.com also offer a great selection of vintage and antique items.

Final Thoughts

Comfort Design is here to stay, and it’s changing the way we think about our living spaces. By prioritizing personal comfort, sustainability and nostalgia, this trend allows us to create homes that are genuinely our own.

Ready to make the switch? Start by exploring vintage stores and incorporating handcrafted pieces into your decor. And if you’re looking for expert guidance, consider booking a consultation with one of our interior designers. After all, your home should be a place that feels like you.

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Sources:

• Francine Hsu Davis, a seasoned interior designer, architect, and owner of Francine Hsu Davis Designs
• Bree Steele, an interior designer at RJ Living
• Jodi Peterman, from Elizabeth Erin Designs