Comfort in curves

Curves, rounded edges and softness are trending in the interior world.

The beauty of curves lies in their ability to create a safe and inviting feel, while also adding character to a space. Rounded elements in design, be it furniture, architecture or wall designs with paint, have experienced a surge in popularity. Scalloped edges, abstract curves, fluid swirls, elegant arches and curvaceous padded elements offer a relaxed vibe to any room. This lounge and entranceway has a contemporary feel with sweeping curves painted in soothing denim blues. Colours like Resene Baring Head, Resene Wayfarer and Resene Comfortably Numb add playfulness on top of the background colour painted in Resene Aoraki.

The popularity of curves and rounded edges in interior design has coincided with a resurgence of the Art Deco style. The style is characterised by elements like sunbursts and fountain symbols, and its sleek geometric shapes. There has been a recent shift from strict, rigid geometric shapes to more free-flowing elements, like arches and curved furniture. Organic forms and elements are on trend in the design world.

There’s a number of reasons why interior designers are loving curves. They can soften the sharp edges and lines of a room, creating a more inviting and comfortable space. This is particularly true in smaller rooms where sharp corners can make the space feel cramped and claustrophobic. By using curved elements, like arches and wall features with paint or curved walls, designers can create a more spacious and welcoming environment. Curved elements are often associated with luxury and grandeur and can also make a room feel more refined and high-end. This is particularly true when it comes to walls, as curved patterns and shapes can be used to create a stunning focal point that draws the eye and adds visual interest to a room.

When it comes to wall designs, paint is one of the most versatile and cost-effective DIY materials available. A simple way to incorporate curves into your home is to create a feature wall using multiple shades of one hue in a curved pattern of your choice.

This living space and entrance combines soothing Resene Aoraki with Resene Baring Head, Resene Wayfarer, Resene Comfortably Numb and Resene Carpe Noctem. Resene Aoraki is a soft, creamy white that provides a neutral base for the design, while colours like Resene Wayfarer and Resene Carpe Noctem offer deep contrast, drama and sophistication.

When you’re creating a feature wall with curved shapes and patterns, it's key to consider the overall aesthetic of the room. Curved designs can be used in a variety of styles, from modern and minimalist, to bohemian and eclectic. By choosing the right colours and shapes, you can create a feature wall that complements your existing decor and adds a unique touch. For example, you could recreate this look in warmer shades if you have a living space with furnishings in deep oranges or earthy browns. Use Resene Parchment as a background shade and contrast it with sweeping curves in colours like bold Resene Korma, Resene Tangerine and Resene Twizel.

Incorporate the curved trend into your furniture by opting for pieces with soft rounded edges. Mushroom-shaped stools are perfect, like this one painted in Resene Duck Egg Blue. Bubble vases also complement the look – we used Resene Carpe Noctem to tie in the wall mural’s colour scheme.

If you are opting for colour on the walls, aim to keep your flooring light and neutral. Resene Half Tea is as milky and warm as it sounds, without overpowering a space. The shade is a lightened neutral that stands the test of time and looks fantastic with blue hues like Resene Comfortably Numb and Resene Carpe Noctem.

Colours and products mentioned in this article

Styling by Kate Alexander. Photography by Bryce Carleton. 2022