This might include travel plans, saving money or finally getting to all those little projects around the house, however the new year also brings in a flurry of novel and exciting trends. So, for my first column of 2009, I would like to give you a list of what I see as the most fabulous trends for the upcoming year.

For inspiration I start by looking at what’s happening the runways of Paris and Milan, especially for what’s hot for designer fabrics. The looks presented always make their way into glam homes and are key to being on trend.

Trends can also be spotted by paying close attention to movies and television. Inspired by the great stylists of TV Land, the show Mad Men has created a huge early ’60s, mid-century revival. Now, this doesn’t mean that we all need to put our aprons on and whip out the ol’ TV trays, but incorporating the right pieces in your home will allow your home to have the right look.

Mid-century revival
Taken straight from the early 1960s, it’s a fresh take on the old look with a hint of the vintage vibe. Wood tones are delicious! Especially walnut, which can be used for everything from furniture and built-ins, to cabinetry. It lends a softer look and is not as harsh as the dark wood styles we are all used to.

Now, the ever-so-marvelous bar cart is also making a huge comeback! De rigueur in the ’60s, the slick look of a chrome cart with glass and mirrored accents is definitely a must for any kool design space.

Remember the look is streamlined and modern. It’s not the late-’60s with Austin Powers-inspired psychedelic prints and shag carpets. Keep the look simple with additions of classic furniture such as pieces from Knoll mixed with a cool colour palette.

Fashionably floral
The spring/summer fashion looks have proved to be the reasoning behind this huge trend for the coming year. It’s all about floral patterns, and bigger the better. Bold, oversized prints are the “it” patterns when it comes to accents in a home. But the look is not for everyone, so try incorporating the trend in small doses, such as on pillows or drapery. This way you won’t overwhelm your space. If you are little more daring, then upholster a side chair in a bright bold floral and you won’t be disappointed.
Scratch the Surface.

When it comes to countertops, granite is definitely on its way out. This material has been used and overused. I feel that the highly-patterned surface looks too busy. This year, look to more of the solid surfaces, such as Caesar Stone or Corian. The solid look provides a clean and fresh aesthetic. Coming in a wide range of colours, they will be sure to match any décor. These surfaces are also quite resilient, durable and most of all fabulously on trend. But fear not as these will not be outdated quickly. The seamless look will remain timeless.

Style within your means
There is nothing stylish about living beyond your means. You can have the most perfect home, but not having enough money to put dinner on that fabulous new table won’t make the statement you hoped for. Spending your hard-earned money wisely does not mean you have to give up on style; quite the opposite. Putting thought into it will give you more satisfaction.

Not many people want to think of trends in a time like this, but there are ways to incorporate them without breaking the bank. For example, consider revamping items you already have in your home to give them a new look. Recovering a sofa or accent chair (perhaps with the aforementioned fabrics?) can be much more affordable than going out and buying new.

Or if you’re the kind of person who can find great pieces from garage sales and estate sales, invest some time to re-stain and revamp your new-found items. These might be lean economic times, but being stylish doesn’t need be thrown out the window. Be a recessionista!

Now, we all know about resolutions. Everyone has at least one and keeping to yours might be a little tough. So, this year why not resolve to make your home a more design-savvy space. Work with the trends that I have given and take from them what you will. Don’t go all out with one trend, as the look won’t remain timeless and you don't want to tire of it.
Happy Decorating!