The unexpected Temple & Webster buy that's earned 3,500 five-star reviews - as interior pros spill the three trends skyrocketing in Australia

Daily Mail​

4 days ago

A set of humble outdoor lights have captured the hearts (and homes) of thousands of Aussies over the past few years - and it's not hard to see why.
Officially boasting the highest unit sales ever on Temple & Webster, the Outdoor Festoon Lights have received more than 3,500 five-star reviews from shoppers who praised the 'flawless quality' and 'perfect shade'.
Priced at either $64.99 for 10 metres or $99.99 for 20 metres, the retro lighting is an easy way to spruce up an alfresco hideaway.
The spacing between the bulbs and the water-proofing ensures they work anywhere and separate sets can be joined together for additional length.
For those worried about power, there's a generous 125cm of cord from the first bulb to the plug. There is no solar-powered option with these but that hasn't stopped Aussies from raving about them.
'We bought these for our yard four years ago and ended up buying eight more sets to light our wedding last year, love the warm glow and the fact that you can link them up together,' one gushed.
'These are so great - much better than those double the price from lighting stores. And I love how you can replace the bulbs individually,' another added.
'Have had these for more than two years I think. They haven't had any issues, I have moved house and they still work,' one more wrote.
A set of humble outdoor lights have captured the hearts (and homes) of thousands of Aussies over the past few years - and it's not hard to see why
The most popular items ever sold on Temple & Webster
In addition to the festoon lights, there are two other items that have been flying off shelves since launching...
The Metal Arched Full Mirror, $279.99
This is the website's most purchased decor item.
'It was one of the first products that showed we were starting a love affair with curves in our interiors,' Lucy Sutherland, Director of Insights and Trends, told FEMAIL.
'The mirror strikes the perfect balance between structure and personality with its sculptural shape adding drama and dimension, while the curved line breaks up hard edges. It brings a playful yet polished edge to interiors.'
This is the most purchased seating item ever sold on the site.
'This remains an all time favourite with our customers, and it's easy to see why,' Lucy said.
'As wellness continues to influence how we live at home, comfort has become the ultimate luxury. Montauk perfectly captures the "sanctuary" trend with its sink-in cushions, tactile fabric and relaxed shape, inviting rest and calm with a casual style.
'Its timeless shape and removable slipcover make it as practical as it is beautiful, earning its place as a true family favourite.'
Lucy Sutherland, the Director of Insights and Trends at Temple & Webster, said it's no surprise these lights are so popular as they 'bring instant atmosphere'.
'They make any outdoor space feel warm, welcoming and ready to host and as at home entertaining becomes more relaxed and spontaneous, festoon lighting offers an effortless way to set the mood,' she told FEMAIL.
'[They] turn backyards, courtyards or balconies into inviting extensions of the home.'
And while the lights, sofa and mirror may have stood the test of time so far, there is an entirely new wave of trends coming through that may see them de-throned...
The interior trends about to sweep Australia in a HUGE way - and the fastest-rising styles buyers and designers adore
Temple & Webster has analysed thousands of local shopping trends and customer preferences to highlight three key style shifts as part of its eagerly anticipated Trend Report - Spaces Reimagined.
The trio leading the way? Mix & Max, Past Forward and Sumptuous Sanctuaries.
Mix & Match
Mix & Match is all about colour and personality - think maximalist prints, colour clashes, nostalgia, broken rules, self-expression and story-telling.
Trends emerging in this space revolve around pattern - from checkerboards and florals to surrealist squiggles and bold, arty textures and shapes.
Described by the team as one for the 'unapologetic individualist', this style is fantastic for those wishing to make a statement through their home.
Dreamy curves: The site has seen a 286% jump in 'boucle bed' searches, particularly those with cosy curves and arches.
Patterned homewares: Striped and checkered furniture sales have jumped by 23% this year as patterns takeover from minimalism as a preference for thousands.
Ripples: Wavy furniture sales have increased by 29%. It's likely you've spotted plenty of mirrors and light stands with this design over the past few months - particularly in a 'soft' bedroom environment.
Past Forward
This trend is just as it sounds - it's all about creating a space that feels warm, familiar and joyful. Cosy nostalgia and a touch of retro flair are the goals here.
This is done with hints to past favourites, shapes and colours from the '70s and '80s - think deep, saturated tones, sunfaded hues, plush textures, sunken lounges, old school bar carts and an all-round moody (yet charming) vibe.
Red resurgence: Sales of homewares in the shade 'merlot' have risen by 32%, highlighting the skyrocketing popularity of deep burgundy and garnets right now.
Rich walnuts: Searches for 'walnut coffee table' have risen by 115% this year, with Aussies keen to bring a little vintage charm to their space. Searches are also up 95% for 'retro chocolate timber'.
Sumptuous Sanctuaries
While it may not be an entirely new trend, this one is proof that more people than ever value the importance of a home that allows for wellness, resetting and reflection.
An aura of calm is what sets this interior style apart - think sheer curtains, natural materials, sunlight nooks, quiet luxury, curved timbers and oversized, nurturing seating.
When it comes to comfort factors in a 'restorative space', a survey of 1,000 Aussies between 18-74 ranked a cosy sofa as most important, followed by natural lighting, soft, calming colours, zero clutter and a cosy armchair. The latter is a priority for empty nesters.
All about marble: There has been a significant 25% increase in sales of homewares made from marble and travertine (a form of limestone) since January, indicating a preference for materials that are more grounding.
Swivel armchairs: Aussies cannot get enough of these soothing pieces, with searches up by a whopping 185% since January 1. As the experts say, 'swivelling is the new rocking' - and it's totally re-shaping how many relax.