Summer 2021's biggest interior trends with Lucy Gough

I think it’s fair to say we’ve all found a renewed sense of appreciation for our homes. Our spring/summer interior design trends for 2021 deliver some much-needed escapism. With a bit of creative thinking and a mood board, these trends will transform your four walls into a destination you’ll want to return to again and again.

1. Modern Country

Think fresh summer meadow prints, handcrafted wooden furniture and a folksy-meets-pastel aesthetic for this look. “It’s all about bringing the outside in and opening up your home to nature,” Lucy tells us.

“I’ve tried to capture a summer’s day in the country. Which means light, airy spaces bursting with the colours of a garden in full bloom.”

In essence, it’s petals minus the pollen and, frankly, we’re here for it.

“Artisan pieces from Ercol and the Evie collection pay homage to the traditional farmhouse style, but these classic designs feel fresh and vibrant in pastel pink.”

Smaller pieces like accent chairs and footstools dot pops of colour in amongst the wood, and real plants and flowers are a must. Being surrounded by nature at home, especially if you’re in the city, is an instant mood booster.

We don’t know about you, but we’re getting secret garden vibes from this updated trend.

Classic country farmhouse, eat your heart out.

For more laidback country farmhouse interiors, check out our gallery.

2. Industrial Elegance

This Spanish-influenced trend puts summer staycations on the map. “I looked to the sunnier climes of the Mediterranean to give the industrial trend a romantic update,” says Lucy.

Sun-baked terracotta and burnt oranges ground this look with a warm, earthy energy that feels refreshingly un-New York.

“Instead, you’re transported to the villa courtyards of Seville with marquetry- detailed wood, high ceilings and tanned leather,” Lucy tells us.

“The dining space works beautifully in extensions with skylights or patio doors,” she added. Tapas on an almost-terrace with a warm glass of red is a tempting proposition, even if it is in the UK.

We know lockdown has made amateur DIYers of us all, but down your paintbrushes. Less is more here.

“Statement pieces like Chesterfield sofas and handcrafted wooden dining tables stand out against bare plaster walls – and serve serious insta-ready style, too.”

3. Future Glamour

Ahead of your time when it comes to interior design? You’ll love our out-of-this-world take on classic glamour.

“We’ve teamed the luxe finish and trademark grey with some surprising style choices to bring it into the 2020s,” Lucy says.

Step one? Statement patterns. “Whether it’s herringbone or checks, they’re a great way to show off your design flair,” Lucy confirms. Not to mention, they turn heads too.

Next up is a gleaming silver palette. “Take the luxe factor up a notch with chrome-polished legs or a silver coffee table. It’s what gives this glam look such a futuristic feel.”

And of course, there’s plenty of luxurious velvet and premium leather to indulge in.

Lucy’s top tip for a glam interior that’s at the cutting-edge of fashion? “A marble dining table will set the scene for decadent dinner parties right through the 20s.”

Feast your eyes on even more glam décor ideas in our inspirational room sets.

4. Modern Pastels

Goodbye monochrome, hello pastels. Step into a dreamland of candyfloss pink in this sleek yet sweet update of modern minimalism.

“Soft pastels are a huge trend for 2021 - and my go-to for smaller spaces as they’re so light and easy to mix together.” We can feel a feature wall coming on already…

Stick to a couple of shades for maximum impact. We’ve plumped for pink and mauve, but there’s a rainbow of colours out there to choose from.

Now, let’s talk gloss. If you have a gleam in your eye looking at this trend, it’s for one reason and one reason only.

“High-gloss furniture is making a comeback. White sideboards and dining tables bring the wow factor. They’re bright, bold and reflect lots of light, so they’re ideal for city living.”

And minimalism isn’t without its luxuries.

A light blue or grey sofa with deep seats creates a snug and comfy focal point in the living room. Just pair with some modern lighting and you have your very own pastel paradise.