Immerse Yourself in a Sea of Tranquility and Mystique with This Interior Design Trend
Photo by Toa Heftiba on Unsplash
Interior design is an ever-evolving realm, a fascinating blend of creativity and aesthetics. It combines our everyday lives with spaces that make us feel relaxed, uplifted, and full of wonder. The latest trend in this exciting world of interior design is known as Mermaidcore.
Adding to the excitement, the long-awaited live-action remake of “The Little Mermaid” finally premiered in May after being delayed due to the Covid pandemic. With its stunning visuals and heartwarming story, this new movie is causing a massive wave of interest in the Mermaidcore style.
Just as mermaids in tales drew in sailors with their beautiful songs in old tales, Mermaidcore is attracting attention in the design world with its cute, ocean-themed look and feel. As we explore this intriguing ocean-inspired world further, we find it’s a trend worth catching this season.
What is Mermaidcore?
“Unlike the ‘coastal grandma’ trend that took hold in 2022, mermaidcore is a younger, more whimsical aesthetic that is all about infusing interiors with an ethereal dream-like quality while embracing shells, pearls, sea glass, iridescent accents and under-the-sea-inspired motifs, like scalloped edges and bubbles,” reports global online marketplace, Etsy.
Mermaidcore draws inspiration from the vast ocean and its stunning marine life. Its palette is a symphony of blues, greens, and teals, interspersed with iridescent silvers and pearly whites, emulating the rich spectrum of underwater colors.
Commonly used motifs include seashells, coral reefs, and marine fauna, accompanied by hints of mythical mermaid iconography. “Taking inspiration from both nautical décor and ‘fairycore’ interiors, the style has its own unique sense of whimsy, which sets it apart from other trends,” says expert Suzanne Pearce.
That being said, the key to mastering Mermaidcore lies in subtlety and balance. It’s not about turning your home into a literal underwater aquarium but about capturing the ocean’s tranquility, mystique, and timeless beauty.
Why Mermaidcore is Making Waves in the Interior Design World
Mermaidcore’s popularity surge can be attributed to several reasons outside of the latest release of Disney’s Little Mermaid, which was actually trending before the movie premiere. Here’s why the Mermaidcore wave is becoming an irresistible tide in the world of interior design:
The Call of the Ocean
Humans have always been fascinated by the ocean’s beauty, depth, and mystery. It evokes a sense of awe and wonder, tranquility, and inspiration. Mermaidcore provides an opportunity to bring these elements into our homes.
Escapism and Serenity
Mermaidcore serves as a form of escapism, much like the captivating call of the sea that lures us into its tranquil depths. Unlike trends characterized by their vibrant boldness, Mermaidcore is an oasis of tranquility and peacefulness. It’s about creating a personal sanctuary and a beach retreat where one can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Embracing this aesthetic means immersing oneself in an environment that soothes the senses, calms the mind, and uplifts the spirit.
Connection with Nature
Mermaidcore provides an opportunity to foster a deep connection with nature. In a world dominated by technology, Mermaidcore offers a breath of fresh air, similar to a refreshing sea breeze. It’s not just about nautical decor but involves bringing in various plants, aquatic life, and actual beach findings, creating something natural and magical.
The Allure of Fantasy
Mermaids have long fascinated us. From ancient folklore to pop culture and Disney’s Little Mermaid, these mythical beings represent beauty, freedom, fun, and mystery. Mermaidcore capitalizes on this fascination, allowing people to create spaces that are as enchanting as they are comforting.
Sustainability
Mermaidcore encourages many sustainable practices, much like other trending interior design concepts we’ve seen this year. This trend is big on ideas like using old, repurposed, or vintage things in new ways and making your own decorations to match the ocean-like vibe. And the best part? It inspires us to find fun, creative ways to protect our environment, especially our oceans. Ultimately, this trend serves as a gentle reminder of our responsibility towards our environment, particularly the oceans.
Exploring the Motifs of Mermaidcore
The allure of the Mermaidcore design style lies not only in its color palette and textures but also in its distinctive motifs. These elements often act as the cherry on top, adding a layer of thematic consistency that reinforces the style. Let’s explore some of the most iconic Mermaidcore motifs commonly used to bring this design concept to life:
Mermaids
Unsurprisingly, mermaids are central figures in Mermaidcore design. From the quintessential mermaid silhouette on fabrics to subtle mermaid sculptures or figurines, these mythical creatures remind us of the enchanting underwater world we are trying to emulate. Unleash your inner Ariel with mermaid-themed prints for wall art or bed linens featuring mermaid scales for a more playful approach.
Oceanic Fauna
Marine life’s immense diversity and color are another recurring motif. Whether it’s a coral-shaped vase, a starfish paperweight, or cushion covers with seahorse or fish prints, oceanic fauna adds charm to the Mermaidcore aesthetic. If you are fond of DIY projects, creating a wall gallery with framed pictures of various marine creatures could add a personal touch to your space.
Seashells and Pearls
Seashells and pearls are other common motifs in Mermaidcore design. “Pearl is a luxury natural material that is the epitome of mermaidcore and a great focal point,” explains expert Johanna Constantinou. You can display a collection of seashells on a coffee table, hang a mirror with pearl embellishments, or pick out a chandelier that mimics the lustrous beauty of sea glass. They add a touch of oceanic opulence to the interior and can be incorporated into almost any item, from lampshades to drawer pulls.
Water and Waves
Water and waves are hallmarks of Mermaidcore. This could include artwork depicting beach waves, a rug with a water ripple pattern, or curtains with a fluid, wave-like design. These items not only reinforce the aquatic theme but also serve to introduce a sense of motion and dynamism to the space.
Nautical Symbols
Nautical symbols, like anchors, ship wheels, or compasses, are less common in Mermaidcore but can still be incorporated for those who want a more sea-faring twist. For example, a vintage compass could make an attractive wall decoration, or an anchor-patterned throw could add a dash of nautical charm to your living room.
Remember, while these decorations can significantly enhance your Mermaidcore aesthetic, using them conservatively is essential. With this aesthetic, balance is vital. Overuse of these objects and concepts can make a space feel cluttered or overly thematic, detracting from the overall serene, undersea ambiance that Mermaidcore aims to achieve.
Incorporating Mermaidcore into Your Space
So, how can you bring the mermaid look into your home? Below are some design tips and suggestions.
Play with Colors
The colors you choose lay the foundation for your Mermaidcore haven. The ocean’s colors are predominantly blues and greens, but they can range from deep navy to turquoise to seafoam green. Design expert James Roberts suggests you “start by selecting a color palette that resembles the coral reef – corals, pinks, aquas, and turquoise.”
Don’t forget the hints of lavender during a sunrise or sunset or the iridescent shimmer of a pearl. Try pairing a deep teal wall with paler, seashell-inspired furnishings. Or create a white base with blue and green accents, such as throw pillows, rugs, or curtains. The color palette should evoke the calming feel of an ocean view.
Textures and Patterns
The mermaid aesthetic celebrates the diverse textures and patterns found underwater. “Think about the textures you see by the shore and mirror them to fit into each room of your home,” says expert Johanna Constantinou. “Fish scales are smooth, bright, and iridescent and will add extra depth to your interior.”
You can incorporate texture through coral-embossed wallpaper, pebble-like throw pillows, or a shell-shaped headboard. Don’t shy away from a few glittering accents, as the sparkle can resemble light reflecting off the water’s surface.
Artwork
Artwork is another way to make a significant impact on your Mermaidcore theme. You can select paintings or prints depicting seascapes, marine animals, or even abstract interpretations of mermaids. Consider large-scale pieces that serve as a focal point or create a gallery wall with a collection of smaller, thematic artworks. You can also look for artwork created on recycled materials or by artists who donate a portion of their profits to ocean conservation efforts to further the sustainability aspect of Mermaidcore.
Accessories and Decor
Accessories allow for both subtlety and statement in your Mermaidcore design. A large clamshell bowl on your coffee table, filled with glass spheres resembling bubbles, makes an excellent centerpiece. “Accessories with scalloped edging are fitting for mermaidcore as they look like fish scales,” adds designer James Roberts.
Additionally, smaller seashells can be displayed in glass vases, or larger ones can serve as bookends. Driftwood can be hung as wall art or used as a rustic candle holder. For a playful touch, consider a mermaid-tail blanket draped over your sofa.
Lighting
The way light filters through water dances, shimmers, and changes as it travels the depths. Iridescent pendant lights can cast an underwater glow throughout your space. Also, consider adding table lamps or sconces with glass or crystal elements that refract light for a water-like effect. Blue or green LED strip lighting used creatively can create a relaxed, undersea ambiance, especially in the evening.
Sustainable Materials
The Mermaidcore aesthetic encourages the use of sustainable materials to help preserve the oceans it’s inspired by. Opt for reclaimed wood furniture with a weathered charm ideally suited to the aesthetic. Look for rugs, curtains, and cushions made from recycled materials or sustainable fabrics like organic cotton or linen. As mentioned, upcycling your existing furniture by painting or reupholstering it can be a nod to reuse and recycling principles.
Plants
Lastly, plants can add a sense of freshness to your space. Look for ones that resemble underwater flora — plants with long, wavy, or feathery leaves. Plants like ferns, peace lilies, or spider plants can give that feel. Also, consider using kelp or seaweed-inspired prints on walls or fabrics for an added touch. Not only do these plants purify the air, but they also contribute to the tranquil, nature-inspired atmosphere.
By diving into the Mermaidcore trend, you can transform your space into a tranquil, captivating sanctuary that pays homage to the allure and beauty of the ocean. As you navigate this trend, remember that recreating this design is about capturing the ocean’s tranquility, mystique, and timeless beauty. With the right balance of color, texture, and theme, you can create an enchanting Mermaidcore haven right in your home.
Achieving Mermaidcore Dreams with Kaiyo
When achieving your Mermaidcore dreams, Kaiyo can play a pivotal role. A leading online marketplace for pre-owned furniture, Kaiyo is your gateway to finding sustainable, high-quality pieces that perfectly capture the Mermaidcore aesthetic. From oceanic blues and greens to furniture boasting organic shapes reminiscent of the underwater world, you can discover unique items that perfectly balance style and sustainability.
Kaiyo understands the importance of sustainable practices found within the Mermaidcore aesthetic and is committed to extending the life of beautiful furniture with it. With Kaiyo, not only are you taking a step towards creating your dream Mermaidcore space, but you’re also making a conscious choice to protect our precious oceans. So, shop with Kaiyo today to bring your interior design fantasies to life.
