New year, new you? If you're looking to update your apartment, you've come to the right place. Whether you're in the market for a completely new living room design or you just need a fun accent piece to brighten your mood, we've got some great ideas for you. Keep reading below for the furniture trends we're predicting will be big this year.

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1. Mix + Match Seating

Mixing and matching different dining chairs is one trend that designers predict will be huge this year. This look gives the dining room an eclectic and approachable vibe. Before trying this out in your home, it's important to remember a couple of things. Always keep dining chairs and benches at an equal height so that everyone sits at eye level. And if possible, leave at least 30cm of space between the top of the chair's seat and the bottom of the table for ample legroom.

How to Get the Look

• Try mixing and matching dining chairs by either using all different chairs, putting a bench on one side of the table or matching the four side chairs and using two different head chairs.
• If you want to start small, stick to one shape of chair and vary the colours – try it out with mid-century modern bucket chairs. Or you can stick to one material and vary the shape – try it out with rattan benches and armchairs.

2. Rounded Edges + Curved Furniture

Looking to create more balance in your life this year? Rounded edges and curved furniture are one of the furniture trends that's here to stay. This look means that the rounded edges and artsy curves can fit in with any aesthetic. And because of its accessibility, you don't have to be a mid-century modern purist to nail this trend. Whether you want to add a few rounded pieces to your apartment or you want to get super curvy, this trend is for you.

How to Get the Look

• Since rounded furniture isn't quite as space-savvy as square and rectangular pieces, it needs more room to breathe. A sofa with a rounded back won't sit flush to the wall like a flat-back sofa will, so you'll have to keep space in mind.
• Curved edges and rounded furniture are great because they can stand alone or fit in with similar pieces. Start with a small rounded sofa or accent chair and then slowly build around that with both rounded and angular pieces.

3. Live-Edge Wooden Tables

Live-edge wooden tables are great if you want an item of furniture that is truly one of a kind. Our experts predict that thanks to its uniqueness, this is one of the furniture trends that is here to last. Live-edge wood adds a warm and cosy element to any space, whether you want to create a welcoming dining space or elevate your living room.

How to Get the Look

• Most high-quality live-edge tables are at least 7cm thick. The thinner the wood, the more likely the table is to warp over time.
• The price of a live-edge wooden table is determined by how many slabs of wood it is made of. A large single slab of wood is very rare (and very old), so that table would be pricier. The more pieces of wood used to make the table, the more affordable it becomes.

4. Scandi-Inspired Black Wood

Scandi design could be described as the cosiest tier of modern style. If you're looking for furniture trends that will infuse a little warmth and a lot of hygge into your space this year, Scandi design and its gorgeous black wooden furniture is the answer. While the Scandi aesthetic is typically known for its light-coloured wood, that element is taking a back seat and black wood furniture is coming front and centre this year.

How to Get the Look

• Look for dark wood that features the quintessential mid-century modern slim silhouette. You'll want dark wooden furniture with gentle lines, soft curves and tapered legs.
• Stick to a limited colour palette for the rest of your decor and furniture. Scandi design favours lots of soft neutrals and natural elements. Simple black and white decor and lots of houseplants will create an unfussy space for you to chill out and breathe.

Tip: Worried that your black wood furniture might look uncomfortable? Throw a sheepskin rug over the seat of any chair to add instant warmth.

5. Matte Black Metal Accent Pieces

Matte black metal accent pieces are great because they meet right at the halfway point between modern and cosy. Glossy black metals give off a sophisticated vibe and aren't nearly as inviting as matte black metal. Matte finishes are fantastic because they don't reflect any light, making them great for hiding any imperfections. The matteness creates a soft feeling, so even though your accent pieces are dark, they'll still look welcoming.

How to Get the Look

• Your matte black metal pieces will really draw a lot of attention, so make sure to use this material in places where you want to make a statement. If you want to take a baby step, consider updating hardware or lighting to matte black.
• Keep the rest of the room pretty light. Whether you're using matte black metal in your furnishings or accent pieces, you don't want it to be swallowed up by anything too dark. Stick to light and warm-hued area rugs, furniture and decor. (And lots of lighting, both natural and artificial)

6. Cane + Rattan Furniture

If you instantly think of outdoor furniture when you hear the words cane or rattan, you aren't alone. While this material is incredibly durable and usually used outside because of its weather resistance, don't let that stop you from bringing cane or rattan inside. Cane and rattan furniture works best in a boho or Scandi apartment, but it is neutral enough to work in any aesthetic.

How to Get the Look

• Rattan and cane sofas and accent chairs are lightweight, affordable and comfortable. Make sure to keep your rattan and cane furniture cosy by topping it with scatter cushions and blankets and rolling out a soft rug underneath.
• Complement your cane and rattan furniture by keeping things boho. We suggest lots of plants, patterned floor pillows and metallic accent pieces.

Eager for more? Then why not check out these 5 kitchen trends to try in 2021?