The 10 Best Interior Design Trends of 2009

The real estate market in 2009 convinced many people to stay in their homes. The decline in the value of houses and condos compelled most people to settle instead of sell. This settling was not so good for the housing market but it was a great thing for the home décor and interior design industry. More people staying in their homes meant good living had to be a priority...along with making small changes to their homes to increase it's value.

This desire for comfort and good living created the need for some interesting interior design trends. Most of these trends combine creativity with efficiency. Others are just pure old fashion cosmetics. In both cases, the purpose was the same. Turn the house into a home by raising its sentimental value...regardless of market conditions.

Here are the 10 best interior design trends of 2009:

1. Wallpaper Murals
This interior design trend is a great enhancement for any home or office. Wallpaper murals can cover any size wall in any area of the home. They are usually found in living room areas but also work well in bedrooms, dens, and finished basements. Most companies give you a choice between using your own image or choosing from their selection of artistic themes. This trend was popular because is a great alternative to painting and definitely raises the quality and value of the home.

2. Two Tone Color Theme
This interior design style is an attention grabber. It is sought after because it is usually the first thing someone notices when they walk into a home. A two-tone style theme throughout your home is basically the walls being one color and the baseboards, door trim, and ceiling trim being another color. A popular two-tone theme would be beige walls with brown trim. Other colors that can be used are grey walls / white trim and burgundy walls / black trim. You can also go with a south beach style of aqua-blue walls / blue trim or orange-rust walls / gold trim.

3. Wood Panel Trim & Crown Molding
If you are not into painted trim, you can always use wood panel trim around the baseboards and doors to enhance the look and feel of your home. For the ceiling you can use crown molding, which is known for being a real eye catcher if installed properly. Crown molding comes in many decorative styles. Both wood trim and crown molding can be purchased already painted or they can be purchased in their natural wood state and stained in the color of your choice.

4. Decorative Kitchen & Bathroom Faucets
It is amazing what a faucet can do. This interior design trend was very popular but also very underrated. Decorative faucets can change the entire look and feel of your kitchen or bathroom. You can easily give a luxury-style theme to a normal kitchen or bathroom just by changing the faucets, knobs and showerheads. You can even go the extra mile by using faucets with gold-tone accents

5. Limestone Fireplaces
A limestone fireplace can give your home a plushy modern look. They come in a variety of traditional and custom designs. Limestone fireplaces are usually smooth and can be plain white or colorful with a few veins embedded in the stone. These type of fireplaces work better with gas or electric fires. They are well known for their clean, elegant look which adds value, efficiency and style to any home.

6. Japanese Style Furniture
An interior design trend that seems to stand the test of time. Japanese style furniture is popular because of its simple, modern look. This usually works well for people who believe in the less-is-more concept. Its sleek and simple designs and colors can give any home an attractive, inviting feel. Because of its space-saving qualities, Japanese style furniture can work well in condos and apartments as well.

7. Velvet Window Treatments - Curtains & Shades
A great interior design trend that combines elegance with affordability. Velvet window treatments are attractive because they bring a lavish style to the home at a comfortable price. Velvet is also energy efficient. Its thick material is great for the cold winter months. Velvet is usually made out of cotton or a cotton blended with rayon or polyester. This creates a material that can add a luxurious style and feel to any home.

8. Wrought Iron Chandeliers
This is a great addition for the dining room, kitchen, living room or foyer area. Wrought Iron Chandeliers are popular because they are durable and easy to maintain. They do not sparkle and glisten like crystal chandeliers but they still bring a sense of style and elegance into the home. Wrought Iron chandeliers come in traditional and contemporary candle and non-candle styles.

9. Natural Stone Countertops
Stone countertops come in a variety of colors, shapes, styles and textures. They are usually made out of quarts, marble or granite. Stone countertops are very durable and can take the beating that comes with cooking, cutting and cleaning. A stone countertop with a nice glossy protective finish will always be an appealing addition to any home.

10. Home Theaters
Last but not least, an interior design trend that has been sought after for many years. This past year, as people went out less and less, they spent more time and money on their home entertainment. This created a rise in the popularity of home theaters and home entertainment systems.

Home theaters are usually formatted with a film projector and projection screen to mimic the movie theaters experience. You can also purchase home-theaters recliners with built in cup-holders to give your theater an authentic look and feel. However, if this is above your budget, you can always splurge on a large flat screen television and surround your space with speakers so you can enhance the sound coming from your TV.

There is more than one way to create a home theater. It can be simple or extravagant, depending on the amount of money you wish to spend.