As the world of interior design continues to evolve, a delightful trend is emerging that embraces playful fruit and vegetable motifs, transforming homes into vibrant spaces reminiscent of a bustling farmstand. Gone are the days of stark minimalism; instead, homeowners are opting for decor that reflects a connection to nature, nostalgia, and a sense of escapism. This trend is not just a passing phase; it is fueled by social media, where quirky produce-themed items are gaining popularity and sparking conversations about sustainability and wellness.
Rachel Hardage Barrett, editor-in-chief of Country Living, notes that this trend intersects with increasing interest in gardening, wellness, and antiques. "There's a certain romance to the farmstand - it speaks to the pastoral lifestyle everyone's craving these days," Barrett explains. The rise of the "Tomato Girl Summer" trend, characterized by vibrant reds and playful tomato motifs, has further solidified this aesthetic, evoking images of Mediterranean cafes and lazy summer days.
Retail giants like Target have jumped on the bandwagon, recently launching a cabbageware-inspired collection that garnered over 15 million posts on TikTok. The platform has played a significant role in popularizing this trend, with users going wild over items like a lemon-shaped ceramic stool at HomeGoods, which quickly sold out. The excitement surrounding these quirky decor pieces showcases a broader cultural shift towards embracing fun, vibrant designs that reflect personal style.
This winter's interior design shows in Paris and Frankfurt felt more like vibrant produce markets than trade fairs. Booths at events like Maison et Objet and Ambiente were adorned with planters featuring 3D grapes and watermelons, mirrors encircled by peapods, and tableware decorated with tomatoes and other produce. Los Angeles-based design editor Courtney Porter, who attended the Ambiente fair, remarked on the playful directions designers are taking with this trend, highlighting the emphasis on sustainable materials and vibrant colors.
One designer making waves in this aesthetic is Carmack, whose Fruit Room project has become a fan favorite. "It's because of the cartoon references like Dr. Seuss and Animal Crossing. It just makes people happy," he says. Carmack personifies fruits in his designs, describing cherries as "flirty and fun" and strawberries as "cutesier and sweeter in nature." This whimsical approach resonates with many, as they seek to infuse their homes with joy and personality.
Food columnist Alyse Whitney has also embraced this trend, curating a collection of food-themed decor in her Los Angeles apartment. From a wreath made of metal mushrooms to a ceramic stool shaped like a lemon, Whitney's love for food decor spans her entire life. She recalls discovering unique pieces at estate sales, including Murano-style glass produce and a whimsical ceramic soup tureen shaped like a head of cauliflower. "Those pieces got me on a full-fledged food collectible mission," she shares.
Barrett emphasizes that this trend can cater to various decorating aesthetics. "If your style is more retro or youthful, you can embrace a little kitsch. For a more sophisticated look, opt for fruit motifs in the form of wall coverings or fabric," she advises. This versatility allows homeowners to express their love for fruits and vegetables in a way that aligns with their personal style.
As the trend continues to gain momentum, it is clear that homeowners are eager to experiment with decor that reflects their personalities and values. "Dressing your home with this aesthetic is an experiment in self-expression that so many people are connecting to," Carmack concludes. Whether through vibrant fruit-themed textiles or playful kitchenware, the love for fresh produce is making its way into homes across the country, creating spaces that are not only beautiful but also meaningful.
In the realm of design, trends are constantly evolving, and David Bromstad, the first-ever winner of HGTV's "Design Star," is at the forefront of these changes. With nearly two decades of experience, Bromstad has seen countless styles come and go, and he continues to guide homeowners in making informed design choices. His show, "My Lottery Dream Home," now in its 17th season, showcases his expertise as he helps clients navigate their newfound wealth and select the perfect properties.
According to Bromstad, one of the enduring trends is the use of rustic shutters, which add vintage charm to homes, regardless of their functional purpose. In the Season 17 episode "Hot Springs Party Place," he highlights the appeal of these quaint shutters during a client inspection. "You said you loved the shutters?" he asks, to which the client enthusiastically replies, "Love them — absolutely!" This exchange illustrates the charm that these design elements can bring to a space.
However, Bromstad is also critical of mismatched flooring in open floor plans, a common mistake he encounters. In the same episode, a client expresses her dislike for the disjointed look of various flooring types, and Bromstad agrees, emphasizing the importance of continuity in design. "Continual flooring makes a smaller place look larger. It just feels effortless," he explains, advocating for a cohesive aesthetic that enhances the flow of a space.
When it comes to wallpaper, Bromstad is a staunch supporter of bold designs and vibrant colors. He believes that wallpaper has evolved significantly, offering endless options for creativity. "I love wallpaper; I think it's come so far and the quality is so nice," he states. He encourages homeowners to embrace wallpaper as a means of adding personality and dimension to their spaces.
In addition to wallpaper, Bromstad has a penchant for wooden beams, which he believes add character to rooms with tall ceilings. In the episode "Brent's Bounty," he expresses his admiration for these architectural features. "The beams are beautiful," he says, and he often incorporates them into his own renovations. For those unable to install real wood beams, he suggests lightweight alternatives made of high-density polyurethane foam, which offer the same aesthetic appeal without the structural challenges.
Another key trend Bromstad champions is the use of manufactured quartz countertops, which he praises for their durability and versatility. In the same episode, he highlights the benefits of quartz, noting that it is virtually indestructible and available in a wide range of colors and designs. This makes it an ideal choice for busy kitchens where style and practicality are essential.
As the design world continues to shift, Bromstad remains committed to helping clients create spaces that reflect their personal style and needs. Whether it's through embracing playful fruit motifs or incorporating timeless design elements like rustic shutters and quartz countertops, he believes that the key to successful interior design lies in authenticity and self-expression.
