Sam Grant Photo
Sharon Exley, Co-Founder, Architecture is Fun, Chicago, IL
There's a trend in church interior design towards paring down, being selective and thoughtful, reports Sharon Exley, co-founder of Architecture is Fun in Chicago. "[This] leaves plenty of room for punches of bold pattern, large flowers, real plants, natural materials, curved sofas, and pods of welcoming tub chairs that swivel,” she says.
Exley provides this readable run-down of the top five "now" motifs in church interior design:
1-Less is more
Call it the Marie Kondo effect or a healthy spin on sustainability. Purchase less furnishings, decidedly less prop. Be strategic and purposeful in selecting furnishings, décor and prop for church public spaces--all of which are key ingredients to a more sustainable ethos. Use timeless materials, stone, marble, linen and add in a smattering of special pieces--classic furniture that still holds its ground.
Use timeless materials, stone, marble, linen and add in a smattering of special pieces--classic furniture that still holds its ground.
2-Biophilia
It's still in (responsible, healthy solutions should always be “in”), so if possible, emphasize church connections to nature. Use natural and organic materials, try out wood floors, stone, daylight, windows that open, and plant life--all of which help bring nature in.
3-Etsy-centric
This is the time to introduce the next gens to valuing what is made by hand. Macramé is back!
4-Gender-neutral palettes
Avoid using the power of color to stereotype gender roles.
This is the time to introduce the next gens to valuing what is made by hand.
5-Memphis & Marimekko movement
Primary colors, graphics, oversized flowers, welcoming tub chairs and curved sofas are back, adding some punch to the midcentury attitude signifying prosperity and freedom. This is perfect fodder for adding some surprise and delight to church public spaces. Blend it in if you are averse to the risk that comes with trend.
