16 Interior Styles We Loved in 2020

Interior Trends We Loved – And Still Inspire Homes Today

2020 will always be remembered as a year like no other.

While the world slowed down, our homes became more important than ever. They became offices, classrooms, restaurants, gyms and sanctuaries all at once and that shift sparked a wave of interior trends focused on comfort, wellbeing and personality.

Many of those ideas haven’t disappeared. In fact, they’ve evolved and continue to influence how we design kitchens, bathrooms and living spaces today.

Here’s a look back at the interior styles we loved and why they still inspire homes now.

1. Cottagecore (aka “Granny Chic”)

Cottagecore celebrates the simple comforts of home.

Think:

• cosy country charm

• floral prints

• layered fabrics

• vintage finds

• warm, homely details

After spending more time indoors, people gravitated towards softer, nostalgic spaces that felt comforting and lived-in rather than ultra-minimal.

Today, we still see this influence in traditional shaker kitchens, warm woods and heritage colours that create welcoming, characterful spaces.

2. Blue Overtook Grey

Grey dominated interiors for years — but blue stepped forward as the new favourite.

Deep navy, inky blues and moody tones began appearing across:

• kitchens

• bathrooms

• cabinetry

• walls

Blue feels calming and cocooning while still being dramatic and stylish. It pairs beautifully with brass, wood and stone textures.

3. Dusky Pink

Pink grew up.

Soft blush and dusky rose tones moved beyond children’s bedrooms and into sophisticated interiors — from tiles and paint to fabrics and cabinetry.

Used subtly, pink acts almost like a neutral and works wonderfully alongside:

• dark navy

• charcoal

• brass

• natural woods

It’s still a popular choice for adding warmth without overwhelming a space.

4. Layers of Texture

When colour stepped back, texture stepped forward.

Homes became softer and more tactile with:

• throws

• cushions

• sheepskins

• woven fabrics

• natural materials

This layered approach creates depth and comfort - a look that continues to influence modern Scandi and spa-inspired interiors.

5. Bringing Nature Inside

Bringing the outdoors in became a huge focus.

Dried flowers, grasses, greenery and natural materials helped connect homes to nature and add warmth to interiors.

Today, we still see:

• wooden cabinetry

• stone finishes

• plants

• organic textures

These elements work beautifully in both kitchens and bathrooms to create calming, restorative spaces.

6. Cane & Wicker

Cane, rattan and wicker furniture added lightness and texture.

From chairs and bed frames to accessories and lighting, these materials softened modern spaces and introduced natural warmth.

They’re still popular today in relaxed, contemporary and Scandi-inspired homes.

7. The Home Bar

With entertaining moving indoors, the home bar had its moment.

Whether a trolley, sideboard or built-in feature, people created dedicated spaces for hosting at home.

Now, this idea has evolved into multi-functional kitchen design, with islands, drinks stations and clever storage becoming key parts of modern layouts.

8. Minimalist Kitchens

Sleek, handleless cabinetry and hidden storage surged in popularity.

Floor-to-ceiling cupboards and concealed appliances created:

• clean lines

• clutter-free surfaces

• a calm, modern feel

This look is still incredibly sought-after today, especially for open-plan living where kitchens blend seamlessly into the rest of the home.

9. Two-Tone Cabinetry

Two-tone kitchens added warmth and personality.

Popular combinations included:

• dark lowers + light uppers

• wood + painted finishes

• contrasting islands

This approach breaks up large spaces and adds interest without overwhelming the design, something we frequently recommend in our kitchen projects.

10. Statement Splashbacks & Texture

Patina finishes, textured tiles and bold splashbacks became focal points.

Warm tones like rust, copper and terracotta introduced depth and character, a trend still influencing modern kitchens and bathrooms today.

11. Scalloped & Decorative Details

Soft curves and scalloped edges added subtle elegance to cabinetry, tiles and furniture.

These gentle shapes brought a hint of Art Deco and vintage charm — a look that continues to appear in feature tiles and bathroom design.

12. Hygge & Darker Scandi

Scandinavian design showed a moodier side.

Instead of all-white spaces, deeper greys, woods and cosy lighting created a warmer, more intimate version of minimalism — perfect for relaxed living.

This “hygge” approach continues to shape spa-style bathrooms and cosy kitchen-diner spaces.

13. Velvet Sofas & Chairs

Velvet added instant luxury and colour.

Rich textures in jewel tones became statement pieces, proving comfort and glamour can work hand-in-hand.

14. Painted Ceilings

Walls weren’t the only surfaces getting attention.

Painting ceilings added drama and personality, especially in darker or contrasting shades.

It’s still a clever way to create impact without overcrowding a room.

15. Wall Panelling

Wall panelling became a go-to way to add architectural interest and texture.

It works beautifully in:

• bathrooms

• bedrooms

• hallways

• snug spaces

Adding depth while keeping things timeless.

16. Retro Warmth (70s Revival)

Spicy shades like mustard, ochre, terracotta and burnt orange returned, bringing warmth and energy back into homes.

These earthy tones still feature heavily in modern interiors and pair beautifully with wood and stone.

Inspired to Refresh Your Space?

Many of these trends continue to shape how we design homes today especially kitchens and bathrooms, where comfort, style and functionality matter most.

If you’re planning a renovation, our expert designers can help you incorporate the latest ideas while creating a space that feels timeless and perfectly suited to your lifestyle.

Visit our Bristol showroom to get some inspiration for your next renovation project.