This three-part series covers all the major interior design trends experts expect to see this year. If you missed Part One or Part Two, be sure to catch up on all of the other 2024 predictions! In Part 3, we cover trends that are sure to bring good vibes and sustainable materials to any space.  Some of these fads have been destined for a comeback, like 1970s retro décor, and others never went out of style, like using durable materials. In this article, we explain how you can achieve these 2024 looks by incorporating composite wood panels, which are versatile enough to meet any design spec, from fluted wood walls to colorful cabinets. These natural materials have been loved for decades, standing the test of time while faithfully storing carbon to help the planet. Read on to see if your favorite trends are making a return and how you can sustainably adopt these trends with composite panels!

1970s Retro Revival

Here’s the skinny… a retro revival is coming! According to Vogue, the 1970s have returned and will be a prominent design trend this year. Retrospective design elements from the memorable decade, like natural and raw materials, geometric patterns, texture, and earthy color palettes that evoke a comforting and relaxed vibe, are back in focus. Composite panel and decorative surface products can help materialize this aesthetic for a funky and functional update to any pad!

In the dawn of the era of “chillin’ out,” low-slung furniture and open floor plans with room dividers provided a grounding and calming effect. Incorporating woodgrain partitions or deep, low-set coffee tables made with MDF are simple, sustainable, and affordable ways to achieve the warm and inviting aesthetic of the 1970s without getting kitschy.

With a focus on texture and pattern, these products are elevated as superior material choices for this trend. Decorative surfaces can be specified to include synchronized woodgrains that emulate natural wood, and MDF can be cut or routed to create abstract compilations, like fractal wall paneling or flooring. Plus, decorative surfaces are engineered to match any aesthetic and are available in an array of colors, textures, and even geometric prints for a groovy flair. Not all elements of the ‘70s are returning, though; Vogue notes that certain aspects, like plastic décor and the notorious bright orange hue of the disco era, will remain in the time capsule for now.

Natural Wood

2024 is all about natural wood, so composite wood is all about 2024! North American composite panel products are made with natural and renewable wood from certified forests. These products, including MDF and particleboard, are made with recycled wood and are beautifully transformed into countertops, cabinets, furniture, flooring, and more. These applications remain a staple in home design, but this year, the natural wood aesthetic is especially trending in applications like wall panels, interior siding, and even ceilings. From Recreational Vehicle (RV) ceilings to fluted wall paneling, the unique possibilities to bring nature indoors with composite panels are endless.

Colorful Kitchens

Gone are the days of the white kitchen! After years in the spotlight, whites and grays are moving out in favor of color to add more warmth and personality to intimate spaces. This year, colorful kitchens are making a splash from kitchen cabinetry, tables, secondary spaces, and even pantries. Earthy color schemes are expected to be especially dominant this year, and notably, green kitchens—in every shade—are already rising in popularity. Other tones predicted to be on trend this year include buttery yellows, pastels, and bold blues. Decorative Surfaces like 2DL, 3DL, HPL, and TFL are great durable options for kitchens and come in various colors. To find a supplier that suits your style and needs, visit our Product Finder.

Durable Materials

With an increased focus on sustainability, conscious spending, and more time spent at home, consumers are demanding materials that are made to last. As work-from-home life has become a mainstay, wear and tear on flooring and surfaces is becoming more apparent. Homeowners want products that are low-maintenance, strong, and “up for anything”. According to Southern Living, designers are seeing homeowners especially investing in enduring flooring and countertops.

Composite Panels are a sustainable, resilient solution to these challenges and can be engineered to accomplish a variety of performance specifications, including resistance to moisture and stains, scratches and impact, fire, and more. Due to the durable qualities of these products, composite panels are also an excellent choice for commercial settings like retail, restaurants, gyms, and healthcare facilities. To find a product that suits your design specification needs, refer to our Buyer’s Guide.

In wrapping up this three-part series, it’s become clear that in 2024, designers and consumers are gravitating towards an emphasis on materials and tones that invite comfort, warmth, and wellness into their spaces. Designing with the planet in mind is a trademark characteristic of so many trends covered in this series; Scandinavian design, Japanese Wabi-Sabi, Biophilic Design, and Earthy Tones all embrace nature and prompt us to bring the outdoors in. Others like Sustainable Materials Choices, Natural Wood Aesthetic, and Warm Woods elevate environmentally friendly materials to the core of design. As protecting the planet takes center stage, so will the importance of designing and sourcing truly sustainable materials like composite panels that provide decorative, durable, versatile, and renewable solutions for the built environment.

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