2022 is almost here.

And, having globally lived through a couple of seriously grim years in 2020 and 2021, I think most of us are more than ready to welcome a fresh, new start – and spruce up our home to match this lighter, optimistic frame of mind. Many of us will still continue to have our homes fulfil their hybrid role of both living and working spaces in 2022, as well as being our much-needed sanctuary away from an uncertain world. But what will we want our homes to look like in 2022? According to experts, how we decorate our homes in the new year will centre around sustainability, both in terms of the materials we use and brands we shop from. Many will also have a renewed interest in bringing the natural world indoors, restructuring our living spaces to adapt to flexible working schedules, and also taking a nostalgic little dip into our design past.

As for colours to look out for, it seems our choice of colour palette is about to become more confident as we experience new feelings of hope and positivity for the future. And, according to recent research, we will find happiness too in rolling up our sleeves and tackling DIY home projects.

Below, design experts weigh in on the top interior design trends for 2022.

1. Round shapes From circular swivel chairs to curvy sofas, this season is all about embracing a more shapely design aesthetic. According to Living Etc., there has been a shift in what customers are looking for some time now - more ‘homely’ comfort seating with deep cushions and more curves generally - a place to lay down as much as to sit. "Comfort, cocooning and creating one’s own world whether it is La Dolce Vita of the Italians or the hygge of the Danes is a key theme," says James Mair, Founder, Viaduct. Sofas’s with rounded edges, organic prints on decor and round and organic home decor pieces give your home a soft and natural look. 2. Bringing nature inside The easiest way to bring nature inside is by adding plants to your home. There are many books which help you create an indoor plant oasis. Using natural shades will help bridge the gap between indoors and outdoors too, and as tiles are having a real moment – how about going really bold with their colour? 3. The colour green

Pinterest has seen searches for green interior inspiration increase by 80 percent this year, and our love of nature-inspired green tones is real.

It seems uur connection to nature and the world around us has never been more important – during the pandemic, or post.

"After so long trapped indoors we have come to appreciate the power of nature to uplift and revitalise us," explains Marianne Shillingford, Creative Director of Dulux.

"Colour-wise we are throwing open the doors and windows and inviting every shade of nature in for tea.'

Speaking to House Beautiful, Ben White, design and trade expert at Swyft, says:

"Bringing the outside in; it’s a trend we’ve spoken about for a while, but next year it will come into fruition. We will see green and natural tones blended into our interiors through the use of plants, timber and terracotta. We might also see the use of green velvet sofas, sage or olive painted walls or jute textured rugs.'

4. Sustainability

2022 will see a further emphasis on sustainable materials, responsible manufacturing, and the reuse and resale of furniture and homeware, according to experts.

We know and care more about climate issues, and the idea of sustainability has fed into the interior industry and our homes. This, industry insiders believe will translate into how we buy furniture; a move towards furniture items with reclaimed woods and accessories with recycled glass and metal... investing in meaningless furniture and accessories is a thing of the past.

"We’ve seen a clear shift towards more conscious choices, whether that is materials or extending the life of items around the home rather than buying more things," Sophie Hill, Marketing, Insight and Innovation at Rothley, explains.

5. Galaxy inspired finishes According to Living Etc, galaxy inspired finishes is about to go viral. Dark blue, veined with white and pale blue streaks is popping up everywhere, from this vanity unit, above, to luxury table tops. Or just imagine how cool your kitchen counter would look in this finish?