Interior Normcore: Trend or Banality? Expert Opinions

Normcore (norm - norm + core - essence) was first introduced to the world in the end of 2013 — in the fashion industry. At that time, bright outfits were replaced by the trend of "normal", unobtrusive clothing with a simple or loose cut in basic colors made of natural fabrics.

Normcore in interior design appeared around the same time. Universal design in light tones replaced pompous classicism that dominated in the 2000s.

In this article, we will tell how to identify normcore in interiors and ask experts for their opinion: Is normcore a rational trend or a boring solution?

Design: PH STUDIO
How to Recognize Normcore? Design Timeless and Fashion-Neutral

In interior design, as in many other spheres, there is a sense of economic downturn. Many people strive to create a universal interior that will last beyond time and trends, without requiring frequent updates or constant investments. In this sense, normcore fully corresponds to the needs of saving and rational consumption.

Design: Bureau of Alexandra Fedorova
Stylistic Ambiguity

Interiors created in this concept are hard to attribute to a specific style. They subtly incorporate elements of Scandinavian style, Japanese minimalism, and understated modernism.

Design: Marina Svetlova
Furniture of Simple Forms and Subtle Colors

As normcore is based on the concept of "design for all times," furniture for such interiors is chosen in simple forms and basic subtle colors to blend with any accessories and not become outdated quickly. Furniture should not be bulky; built-in models are preferred.

Design: Bureau of Alexandra Fedorova

Almost in every collection of popular mass-market brands and at fashion shows, you can find similar examples. For instance, a corner or straight sofa with wooden legs and gray fabric upholstery.

Design: INT2 Architecture
Neutral Color Palette

Gray, brown, and beige tones form a neutral base that most people perceive as safe and comfortable for living. Additional accents can include pale blue, khaki, burgundy tones, and dark blue.

Design: PH STUDIO
Natural Materials

Wood, linen, cotton, and glass are appropriate and suitable materials for a rational interior. Natural materials look beautiful and never go out of fashion, which fully aligns with the concept.

Just take a look at collections of home accessories and textiles in stores. Even simple mass-market brands dictate these trends.

Photo: H&M Home
Accent on Accessories

It is easy to add individuality to a basic interior by placing accents with accessories. For example, hang a painting made by your own hand or a photo. Change the bedding in the bedroom and living room and put a vase with flowers — these are simple and budget-friendly ways to add vibrant details.

Design: Natalia Yashuzakova
Expert Opinions

We asked professional designers for a brief comment: Is normcore a rational trend or banality? Here is what they said.

Ruslan Kirnichansky: "This is a phenomenon relevant to our time"

Ruslan Kirnichansky
EXPERT
Designer, Architect, Design Critic

"This is a phenomenon relevant to our time. More and more people are striving for uniformity. In interior design, there is a common trend: restrained finishes and bold decor. This method creates interesting and distinctive interiors."

Anna Muravina: "The emergence of normcore is a reaction to years of fashion dictatorship"

Anna Muravina
EXPERT
Decorator and Designer, Member of the Association of Interior Designers and Decorators (АДДИ)

"I believe that the very emergence of normcore is a reaction to years of fashion dictatorship. The pendulum has sharply swung in the opposite direction, which led to the creation of the term normcore. The desire to be like everyone else contradicts human nature because every person sees himself or herself as unique and special.

We are talking about fashion and interiors. When choices are available, it is unlikely that anyone would consciously choose impersonality. Unless for the purpose of demonstrating one's uniqueness through this choice. How paradoxical it sounds."

Yana Saharevich: "Not everyone can adapt to such a calm normcore interior"

Yana Saharevich
EXPERT
Designer-Decorator

"The concept of interior normcore by itself cannot be banal.

Banal and boring can only be the ideas and solutions of architects/designers/decorators themselves. Normcore is primarily convenient and functional. It's the canvas on which the basic concept of interior design is built.

Now we observe a general trend toward naturalness, the natural and authentic. External, possibly visual simplicity allows designers to focus on interesting materials, fabrics, and finishes.

Certainly, each of us is individual with our own specific needs and characteristics. And not everyone can adapt to such a calm normcore interior."

Your Opinion: Do you think normcore is a sign of rationality and good taste or rather an impersonalization of the interior?

On the cover is a design project by Bureau of Alexandra Fedorova.