Ikea has given us a sneak-peek of what’s coming – and now we can’t wait for autumn

So far, can we all just agree that 2020 has been an absolute joke..?

I mean; I don't know about you, but I am more than ready to just call it Christmas and have this year be over. In the meantime, knowing this won't be the summer I was planning originally (so long, Amalfi Coast...), I have started feeling a little excited for autumn. No, really. I mean; don't you just love the idea of cosy nights in, cooking rustic soups and stews, hosting game nights and even sipping on pumpkin spiced lattes and visiting pumpkin patches again. I know I do! And so you can imagine my joy when I recently got to take a sneak peek at Ikea's latest Autumn/Winter 2020 collection. We are talking all the cosy, moody, autumn vibes. And I, for one, I'm so ready!

The Swedish retailer predicts Scandi vibes, eco-friendly fabrics and warm colour palettes that will have you wishing winter was already here.

Have you started planning for next season too? Take a look at these four trends Ikea are predicting will dominate these next six months:

Highland Heritage

This trend is inspired by the Scottish countryside, taking inspiration from nature's beautiful landscapes. A fusion of natural elements, sustainable materials and darker hues, Highland Heritage is all about bringing the outdoors in – and creating a cosy haven to relax in at the end of a busy day.

'Whilst we are still adjusting to the 'new normal', and uncertain times still lay ahead, it's more important than ever to create an inviting, serene and sheltered oasis to help bring balance, calm and instil a sense of belonging and comfort throughout your home,' says Clotilde Passalacqua, Interior Design Manager at Ikea UK and Ireland.

There is a focus on sustainability with Highland Heritage as well. This, I think, is welcome news for most of us, particularly as we have all become more conscious about the products we buy for our home.

'Inspired by the beauty of nature, Highland Heritage showcases the important role sustainable and natural materials can have within a space. Incorporating materials such as wood and rattan will not only add character to your home but also help bring the beauty of the great outdoors, in,' adds Clotilde.

Street Style Nomad

The Street Style Nomad trend embraces the notion of creating more space at home – even if we are living in urban areas and in apartments rather than houses. These pieces provide city-dwellers with affordable and functional options that don't compromise on style. Think block colours, statement items, clean lines and modern design.

Rosheen Forbes, Commercial Activity & Events Leader at Ikea UK & Ireland, explains:

"Following city-wide lockdowns, many of us have learnt the importance of embracing small space living, championing creative and affordable solutions that establish a flexible and functional environment without compromising on character"

Scandi Fusion This trend is all about blending modern and traditional Scandi styles with minimalist influences. Scandi Fusion pays homage to classic design with a range of cultural influences bringing a bespoke look and feel.

'Scandi style is synonymous with Ikea, with this trend paying homage to classic, understated and timeless design with a range of cultural influences from Bauhaus to folklore,' says Clotilde.

'Underpinning the trend are honest, durable and functional materials, such as plywood, metal, paper, wool, cotton and linen. Clean lines and seamless surfaces evoke a sense of minimalism and spaciousness, which declutter both physically and mentally, enabling a focus on mindfulness and wellbeing."

Eclectic Traditions Establish a nostalgic, generous and inviting atmosphere with Eclectic Traditions. This trend embraces a sense of extravagance and sets the perfect ambience to create memories to last a lifetime. Cooking, eating, decorating and spending time with our loved ones are all important parts of this trend, according to Ikea, and the focus here is a warm, welcoming and – you guessed it – eclectic colour palette. Rosheen Forbes, Commercial Activity & Events Leader at IKEA UK & Ireland, says: “Celebration is central to this time of year - cooking, eating, decorating and spending time with our loved ones. Eclectic Traditions brings an aura of warmth and affection through a wide mix of crockery and serving ware."