DYNAMIC: blending masculine and feminine elements in interior design
The lines between masculinity and femininity are becoming increasingly fluid, and that shows in the design world as well. From fashion to interior design and architecture: the blurring boundaries and exploration of male and female archetypes are a source of inspiration.
Gender in design
Traditionally, interior designers favoured either a masculine touch featuring sharp edges, cooler colours and industrial materials like metal, or a feminine approach. In that case, gentle curves, warm tones and soft textures prevailed. Nowadays however, we’re noticing an increasing trend towards a fusion of these two types of elements. The result is a new and exciting avenue of opportunities to explore in the combination of different materials, textures and colours.
Dynamic design in architecture
The Soumaya Museum in Mexico City is an excellent example of how dynamic design finds its way to architecture: its distinctly feminine hourglass shape gives the building a sleek and sophisticated look, which is offset by the edgier hexagons that cover it.
Ready to explore examples of this dynamic trend in action?
Here are our three favourite ways to infuse it into any interior
1. Getting a feel for textures
Hard and soft textures are a great way to play around with male and female archetypes in design.
For example, the rigid lines of this sleek metal cabinet pair perfectly with the sensual, soft touch of red towels. The same red hue is then applied to the wall.
2. Masculine materials vs material girl
Besides textures, an atypical material choice can also turn heads. The key here is not to overdo it, but to create a subtle influence that introduces an unexpected touch to the room.
Take this combination of soft, luxurious and warm leather with the cool tones of this concrete-like floor, for example. Each element complements the other, for a perfectly balanced ensemble.
3. A gender-fluid colour flow
Contrasting warm and cold tones or more masculine colours with traditional feminine hues is another expression of the dynamic interior design trend. Take the space below, for instance: the warm-coloured wall is in stark contrast to the neutral, cool grey floor. This in turn creates an interesting atmosphere that inspires and excites.
This often leads to surprising and extraordinary colour combinations, such as this bold mix of soft pink and dark green which lends an intriguing aura to this space.
