Moiré Has Dominated Interiors in 2024: Here’s Why

In the world of interior design, trends often shift and evolve, but once in a while, a pattern emerges that resonates across the design community—one that transforms spaces with its elegance and versatility. In 2024, Moiré has emerged as one of the most dominant patterns in interiors, making a dramatic yet refined impact on furniture, textiles, wall coverings, and more.

If you haven’t heard of Moiré (pronounced "mwah-ray"), you might be surprised to learn that this stunning, undulating design is everywhere this year. Whether it’s a subtly embossed wallpaper, luxurious fabrics, or striking floor tiles, Moiré’s unique optical effects are giving interiors an undeniably modern, sophisticated touch. But what makes this intricate pattern so irresistible, and why has it become such a standout in 2024?

At SJ Interior Designs, we’re seeing Moiré everywhere, and it’s not just a fleeting trend. Here’s why this centuries-old design is dominating interiors this year and why it’s here to stay.

1. The Subtle Yet Powerful Optical Effect

Moiré is a design created by the overlapping of two patterns, usually of fine lines or grids, resulting in a visual interference that gives the illusion of movement. The term “moiré” is derived from the French word for “watered,” describing the wavy, liquid-like appearance of the pattern.

What makes Moiré so appealing is its ability to create an optical illusion that changes depending on the angle of the viewer and the light in the room. It adds a layer of complexity to a space without overwhelming it, offering an almost hypnotic effect that draws the eye and engages the viewer.

In 2024, interior designers are embracing Moiré for its ability to bring a sense of dynamism and elegance to any space. Whether used sparingly in accent pieces or as a bold focal point, the pattern exudes luxury and modernity without feeling garish or overdone.

2. Versatility Across Materials and Applications

One of the main reasons Moiré has taken over interiors this year is its incredible versatility. The design can be applied to a range of materials, creating varied effects across different surfaces. Whether it’s fabric, wallpaper, glass, or ceramics, Moiré adapts beautifully to any medium, making it a favorite for a wide range of applications.

• Textiles and Upholstery: Moiré fabrics, particularly those made of silk or velvet, are incredibly popular in 2024. The rich texture of these fabrics, combined with the undulating design, creates a luxurious, sophisticated feel for curtains, cushions, sofas, and even bedding. The subtle play of light across the fabric gives the pattern a sense of depth, making it perfect for high-end interiors.

• Wallpaper and Wall Art: Moiré wallpaper is an easy way to introduce this pattern into your home, whether you choose a bold, large-scale design for a statement wall or a more subtle variation for an elegant backdrop. The gentle distortion of light across the surface creates a captivating atmosphere in living rooms, dining rooms, or bedrooms. Additionally, Moiré-inspired artwork and wall coverings are making their mark as standout pieces in contemporary interiors.

• Tiles and Flooring: Designers are incorporating Moiré effects into tiles, particularly in bathrooms and kitchens. The illusionary movement can be used to create interesting floor patterns or as an eye-catching backsplash. Moiré tiles are often used in geometric patterns to enhance their visual impact, making them a powerful tool in modern design.

SJ Interior Designs Tip: Moiré is ideal for creating a sense of visual movement in a room. Use it on soft furnishings like cushions or throws, or incorporate it into larger design elements like accent walls or feature furniture pieces to make a statement without overwhelming the space.

3. Sophistication and Luxe Appeal

In 2024, homeowners and designers alike are gravitating toward luxurious, refined, and elegant aesthetics—and Moiré is the perfect pattern to capture that essence. Historically, Moiré was used on fine fabrics like silk and velvet, often reserved for the elite, and it continues to convey a sense of opulence today.

Moiré’s ability to subtly shift and change depending on light adds to its sophisticated allure. This makes it particularly effective in luxury spaces, where every design detail matters. Whether it’s a Moiré-patterned accent wall in a high-end living room or Moiré fabric on a plush chaise lounge, this pattern elevates the space, imbuing it with both modernity and timeless elegance.

• Rich Colours and Textures: In 2024, Moiré is often seen in rich, luxurious color palettes like deep emerald greens, royal blues, golden yellows, and metallics. These hues enhance the visual impact of the pattern while contributing to the overall luxe feel of the room.

• Perfect for Statement Pieces: Moiré’s hypnotic movement and intricate design make it an excellent choice for statement furniture pieces, such as upholstered chairs, headboards, or custom-designed sofas. Its use in small doses creates an opulent, yet understated, elegance that is highly sought after in high-end interiors.

SJ Interior Designs Tip: Moiré is ideal for soft furnishings in luxe spaces. Opt for velvet or silk Moiré curtains, cushions, or throws in rich jewel tones to add depth and sophistication to a room.

4. A Nod to Retro and Vintage Influences

While Moiré feels very modern in its current iteration, it also carries an air of nostalgia. This optical illusion pattern has its roots in mid-century modern design and was especially popular in the 1960s and 1970s. Today’s Moiré designs have a contemporary edge, but they still evoke a sense of vintage glamour and retro coolness.

This blend of old and new makes Moiré the perfect choice for interiors that mix modern elements with a nod to the past. It adds an exciting layer of history and texture to spaces while maintaining a clean, contemporary feel. Moiré’s association with vintage design makes it especially appealing for those seeking a fusion of classic elegance with fresh, up-to-date trends.

• Mid-Century Modern Revival: In 2024, many interior designers are incorporating Moiré patterns into mid-century modern-inspired spaces, blending clean lines and minimalist furniture with the sophisticated visual interest of Moiré design.

SJ Interior Designs Tip: If you love the look of mid-century modern design, combine Moiré with sleek, retro-inspired furniture. Moiré can add a luxurious yet nostalgic element to your space, creating a balance of classic and contemporary.

5. The Psychological Impact of Moiré

One of the less discussed, yet compelling, reasons Moiré is so popular in interiors in 2024 is its psychological effect. The undulating pattern creates a sense of movement and flow, which can invoke feelings of calm and intrigue. It’s the perfect visual trick that keeps the eye moving, offering something new to focus on as the light changes throughout the day.

Moiré can transform a space, making it feel dynamic and alive. It’s a subtle but powerful design tool that works especially well in rooms where relaxation or creativity is key, like living rooms, bedrooms, and home offices.

SJ Interior Designs Tip: Use Moiré in spaces where you want to encourage focus or relaxation. Its hypnotic, fluid quality makes it perfect for bedrooms or study areas, where its presence can promote a sense of tranquility or creative inspiration.

Moiré Is Here to Stay

Moiré’s dominance in 2024 is not just a passing trend—it’s a design revolution that’s capturing the hearts of designers and homeowners alike. With its ability to create dynamic, fluid visuals, add an air of sophistication, and blend seamlessly with both vintage and modern aesthetics, Moiré has proven itself to be more than just a pattern. It’s a statement of luxury, elegance, and contemporary chic.

Whether you choose to incorporate it in your soft furnishings, use it to create a stunning feature wall, or bring it into the room with bespoke furniture, Moiré is a timeless pattern that adds depth, texture, and movement to any space.

Ready to incorporate Moiré into your home? At SJ Interior Designs, we specialise in creating custom design solutions that bring the latest trends, like Moiré, into your space while reflecting your personal style. Contact us today for a consultation, and let’s bring the captivating beauty of Moiré to your interiors