By definition, trends come and go and TikTok is full of new fashions that seemingly take the interior design world by storm. We’ve already had dopamine decor, which is a celebration of color and indulging in one’s decor desires, and in these early months of 2024, we are witnessing a revival of 70s interior decor.

This decor trend pays homage to a family member: the “Urban Aunt” aesthetic is what everyone is talking about, so what exactly is it? And who on earth is this aunt? Well, if you’ve ever visited that chic, trendy (and childless) aunt who lived in a stylish apartment – who seemed straight out of an interior design magazine… we’re talking about her.

As the name itself suggests, urban, this aesthetic is more likely to be found in a loft-style city apartment or an open-plan living room. Typically, it should feature exposed brick, large windows or skylights, wooden floors, soft rugs, and should find its raison d’être with a mix of contemporary and vintage furniture. So how do you achieve an “Urban Aunt” look apartment?

Even if 99% of us don’t live in a loft-style apartment in the glamorous part of town, you can still incorporate elements of this aesthetic into your home; whether in the living room, bathroom, or bedroom, you can have it and beware: even through small improvements that don’t overhaul an already structured decor.

Here are some helpful tips on how to create this viral interior trend.

THE AESTHETIC LOOK

Obviously, it’s very important and this includes soft rugs and layered throws, cushions, and armchairs. Leather sofas are also a great feature, as they are elegant and timeless; your “urban aunt” loves visiting thrift markets in search of that unique piece of furniture or an eye-catching decorative item. It’s this mix of premium and vintage furniture that makes the Urban Aunt interior trend more versatile to achieve.

P.S. Vintage pieces are a key feature of the design and can include sideboards, coffee tables, chairs, lamps, or other trinkets.

DIFFERENT TEXTURES

Soft furnishings and textures are one of the main ways to give this kind of mood: upholstered chairs blend with glass, steel, and important materials like travertine that make the space sumptuous and chic.

MIXED DECOR

The decor should reflect the well-lived life of its occupant: richly decorated rooms, cozy and elegant spaces, where patterns and textures blend without ever clashing.

COLOR PALETTE

Finally, the color palette is a key factor for the urban aunt look and jewel tones should somehow find space, blending with rich and saturated shades that include wine-soaked burgundy, bronze, and deep black from chandeliers and coffee tables; perhaps deep blues, warm woods, and colored marbles to complete the story of this hypothetical aunt.

A loaded style, therefore, where the space is tidy, no TV, cashmere throws draped over stools: an eclectic mix of art with framed drawings of nephews alongside paintings by artists and black and white family photos.

Photo credits: livingetc /paigewassel /