Trend Alert: The Mushroom Décor Craze

As the decorating spirit of the 1970s returns, following maximalism and bold colours and patterns, mushrooms have finally entered the interior-design mainstream. This is not simply the psychedelic imagery familiar from posters and tapestries in student homes and dorm rooms. Think of mushroom-inspired products with minimal, refined lines, especially the lighting designs etched into our memories: vintage Murano lamps, Artemide's Nessino table lamp, Verner Panton's Panthella lighting family and more.According to Pinterest, searches for ‘mushroom décor’ first rose significantly in 2020, and interest in this micro-trend continues to grow. Alongside the ‘mush-room’ movement, which the platform predicts will become huge, a new generation appears ready to welcome more unusual, playful and thought-provoking decoration into their homes.

The mushroom craze can be seen as a continuation of the desire to bring the outdoors in through biophilic architecture and sustainable living. A growing preference for earthy looks has made space for mushrooms' organic forms and neutral colours. Dark, broad-leaved tropical plants, reclaimed wood, rattan and bamboo furniture and objects—all part of the blend of Japandi and Scandi influences—create a nature-centred visual and tactile setting in which mushroom décor feels at home. Not every design is quiet and minimal, however. Some are playful and slightly fantastical, suited to maximalist and eclectic interiors while remaining earthy and grounded.

Patterned textiles such as cushions, curtains and tablecloths with references to mushroom forms can add a small touch without disturbing your existing arrangement.

Furniture trends can be harder to introduce because of their scale, but sculptural mushroom-inspired chairs, stools and lamps can create focal points. Think of more unusual pieces that may not stand the test of time as functional works of art.

Provided they are not poisonous varieties, mushrooms can add novelty and depth to floral arrangements through their different colours and shapes. If you enjoy unusual arrangements, this offers a way to introduce mushrooms into a traditional interior without changing the overall scheme. Choose real or artificial versions.