Notes from the Box

A New Year, A New Direction in Design

Every new year brings a shift.

And this year? It’s a noticeable one.

After years of cool grays and minimal palettes, we’re seeing a return to rich color, warmth, and personality. Spaces are feeling more layered, more expressive—and honestly, more inviting.

At Out of the Box, we’re seeing it firsthand as new pieces arrive that reflect this change in direction .

Goodbye Gray, Hello Depth

For a long time, gray dominated interiors.

It gave us:

• Clean lines
• Minimal distractions
• A focus on form

But now?

We’re moving toward:

• Plum
• Burgundy
• Chocolate brown
• Deep, cool blues

These tones add depth, richness, and comfort—without losing sophistication.

Warm Woods Are Back

Remember the warmth of wood tones from decades past?

They’re back—and better than ever.

A vintage Italian desk with mixed wood inlay shows exactly why:

• Natural variation
• Subtle pattern
• Timeless craftsmanship

These pieces bring life into a room in a way flat finishes simply can’t.

Clean Lines, Still Going Strong

Not everything is changing.

Clean, modern lines are still very much in.

Pieces like bentwood chairs with slim metal legs or a sleek multi-door console prove that simplicity still works—especially when paired with richer materials.

It’s not minimalism—it’s refined simplicity.

Leather in Rich, Earthy Tones

One of the biggest shifts?

Leather is getting warmer.

Think:

• Deep brown
• Burgundy
• Saddle tones

A large Bernhardt leather lounge chair or a classic bergère chair instantly adds:

• Comfort
• Texture
• A grounded, luxurious feel

These are the pieces that make a room feel lived-in—in the best way.

Stone: Texture That Grounds a Space

Natural materials are having a major moment.

Travertine, in particular, is everywhere again:

• Floors
• Tables
• Backsplashes
• Accent pieces

Its porous texture and warm tones create a sense of:

• Authenticity
• Permanence
• Calm

Even smaller pieces—like nesting tables—can bring that effect into your space.

Arches & Curves: Softer Architecture

We’re seeing a move away from hard edges.

Arches are showing up in:

• Doorways
• Furniture
• Architectural details

A statement arched door—like a medieval-style walnut entry—adds:

• Drama
• Softness
• Visual interest

It’s a subtle shift that makes a big impact.

Color Through Art & Accents

If you’re not ready to commit to bold walls, start smaller.

Artwork is the easiest entry point.

Pieces in plum, gold, blue, and earthy tones:

• Add personality
• Create focal points
• Tie a room together

Even lighting—like a brass sconce with a burgundy shade—can introduce color in a controlled way.

Brown Is Back (And It Never Really Left)

Let’s talk about brown.

It’s warm. It’s natural. It’s versatile.

A large wool rug in layered brown tones creates:

• Grounding
• Comfort
• Subtle texture

It pairs beautifully with both modern and traditional elements.

How to Use These Trends in Your Home

You don’t need to do everything at once.

Start with:

• One rich color (art, chair, or accent)
• One natural material (wood or stone)
• One clean-lined piece to balance it out

That’s enough to shift your space in a meaningful way.

Just In: New Pieces Reflecting the Trends

This week’s arrivals bring these ideas to life:

• A professional-grade French range with brass accents
• A dark wood room divider with architectural presence
• A shearling-upholstered sofa with texture and warmth
• A large abstract artwork with layered color
• A modular sectional for flexible living
• A mission-style chandelier with stained glass detail

Each piece reflects where design is heading—and how you can bring it home.

Why This Shift Feels So Right

Because it feels human.

It’s:

• Warmer
• More expressive
• More comfortable
• More personal

And after years of cool minimalism, that’s exactly what people are craving.

Visit Out of the Box

With constantly changing inventory and pieces that reflect both timeless design and current trends, there’s always something new to explore.

Open Tuesday – Sunday
New arrivals weekly

Stop in and get inspired for your space in 2024.

FAQs: 2024 Design Trends

Are gray interiors out?

Not completely—but they’re being replaced with warmer, richer tones.

What colors are trending?

Plum, burgundy, chocolate brown, and deep blues.

Is wood coming back?

Yes—especially warmer, natural tones.

How do I start updating my space?

Add color through art or seating, and layer in natural materials.

Do I need to follow trends?

No—use them as inspiration, not rules.