Interior goals: how to curate your dream home aesthetic

Quiet luxury, cottagecore, dark academia: you'll have heard these terms tossed around in recent years on social media and in online articles. More than ever before, people are cultivating their own personal aesthetics across fields from fashion to music. Now, interior design is getting the same treatment.

So how does building an individualised home aesthetic work in practice? We turned to André Fu Studio , the designers behind effortlessly chic properties like The Upper House, for their insights.

André Fu , founder of the studio, says, “if I were to define what an interior design aesthetic is, it is perhaps the type of lifestyle the design exudes.”

Fu, whose elegant style has been in demand at properties such as Claridge’s London and Hotel The Mitsui Kyoto , says he views his own aesthetic as “timeless”. He adds, “[it is] entirely unique and built from my own experiences, and from how I perceive the core ethos of the place [each property is] situated in."

When he’s helping clients realise their own aesthetic, however, it’s a different process – and one that anybody can learn from. “It’s almost like building a mental collage that pieces different visual references together, conjuring up a world that truly reflects the original project vision,” says Fu. 

Tools such as Pinterest, Instagram collections and even a physical vision board can help you narrow down your aesthetic, allowing you to curate an ideal space before you’ve invested in paint or furnishings. 

“Build a small library of images that you're attracted to, then stick them up onto the wall area by area. It will help to create a more consolidated mood board to direct the aesthetics of your home,” he advises.

Fu also recommends drawing influences from the world around you. He personally finds inspiration in “unassuming places” while travelling, or in films he watches.

“I believe it is important to immerse oneself in different cultures and lifestyles first-hand – social media is a great introduction but one has to touch and feel a space to fully understand what its texture, proportion, and the play of light and shadow evoke,” he says.

It’s fun to look to interior trends to see if any resonate with you, but at the end of the day, your home should be uniquely yours. “A home these days should be a genuine reflection of the homeowner’s persona,” says Fu.

Don’t know where to start? Here are a few 2024 interior design trends if you're looking to spruce up your space this season, plus pieces you can buy now through our Cathay Shop .

Quiet luxury

Subtle investment pieces, rich textures, sumptuous fabrics: these elements all make for an effortlessly luxurious home. Carefully considered, elegant yet minimalist designs convey opulence – without ramming it down your throat. 

With an emphasis on high-quality materials and a muted colour palette, quiet luxury is both warm and understated – and effortlessly chic. Look to upgraded yet intriguing basics like ivory boucle couches, mixed natural textures and warm intentional lighting.

Get the look

Secto Design by MANKS – OWALO 7010 Floor Lamp 

Muuto by Manks Enfold Sideboard – Tall Wide

70s vibes

Over the past couple of years, 70s interiors have made a roaring comeback – and they show no sign of receding. Earthy colour palettes typical of the retro style are predicted to be a favourite this year according to design company 1stdibs – think chocolatey browns and olive greens. 

Dark woods, groovy wallpapers and low-slung furniture in fluid shapes are hallmarks of this era, but resist the urge to go full time capsule and use these elements sparingly. 

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Louis Poulson by Manks – PH 3 ½ - 2 ½ Table Lamp

Fredericia by Manks 2226 The Spanish Chair

Dopamine decor

This year's abundance of mushroom lamps and vibrant tableware begs you to step away from utilitarianism and embrace whimsy. As its name suggests, dopamine decor is all about bringing items into your home that make you smile. 

Whether you turn to bold patterned curtains or an animal-themed sculptural lamp, playfulness is your key word. Start off with a statement piece and refrain from throwing in many things at once, to avoid falling into kitschy territory.

Get the look

Moomin Children's Set Moomintroll

Varier by MANKS Ekstrem Innovative Lounge Chair