Trend reversal in Britain

Minimalist European design themes are being increasingly driven out by a resurgence of traditional British décor. This is according to the findings of the latest Focus Wickes DIY Monitor, undertaken in conjunction with retail analysts Verdict Research.The prediction, drawn up by leading industry experts including designers and stylists, will have big implications for British DIY retailers. The study claims, for instance, that carpets are to make a big comeback, and that rich colours and textures will be popular once more.British consumers are set to add more colour to their homes in future.If borne out by sales over the coming months, these trends will set Britain apart from the rest of Europe, where minimalism remains the key design trend.The Monitor reveals that nearly 65 per cent of DIYers agree that richer colours are the next big thing for this year, and that only 20 per cent will be sticking to the safe option of trusty neutrals.Focus Wickes claims this new look for  2004 is a reaction against the minimalist styles, which have been predominant in recent years. “Householders these days are opening themselves to numerous design influences,” says a spokesperson. “They are increasingly knowledgeable and confident in their decisions, so it’s no surprise that we’re going to see much more freedom of expression and personalisation in home décor in the coming months.”The experts have discerned a number of influences that will result in a more adventurous home style in the coming year. A recognition that hard floors can be noisier is also likely to see more and more houses split into “hard” and “soft” areas, with carpets set to make a big comeback and more variety in floor coverings overall. According to David Pearson, group development director at Focus Wickes, “These trends present an opportunity to grow the DIY market in a sustainable way, since they do not rely on the housing market for their stimulus. The DIY sector is already the fourth largest retail sector in the UK, which has doubled its sales over the last ten years. We now have the opportunity to build profitability by adding value.”