The Design Form That Etsy Says Will Be Popular In 2023

Perhaps you've noticed a shift that's occurred in the interior design world involving modern spaces. While modern homes used to be dominated by cool tones of white, black, and gray, they are now being taken over by warm off-white, taupe, and brown shades. Similarly, furniture and elements with sharp edges used to be common, but now softer forms with rounded edges have taken center stage to create a more cozy and welcoming vibe.

As this trend continues to evolve, Etsy says that a subset of curvy pieces has emerged, called melting forms. These items have asymmetrical shapes that give them a melted appearance, mimicking free-flowing molten lava. To find these pieces, many have begun using the words melting or molten in their searches, and Etsy believes that this trend will only continue to grow in popularity throughout 2023. Below, you'll discover what makes these decorations stand out from other curved elements as well as links to some of the best molten items sold on Etsy.

You've probably seen quite a few curvy pieces pop up in modern homes. HGTV star Leanne Ford has fully embraced this trend — in fact, she even has a collaboration with Crate & Barrel, which features a beautifully curved sofa retailing for $2,299. Arches are another important element of this design and are used in both architecture and furniture pieces. An arched bookcase can be purchased from Target for $250.

However, while these pieces are already quite unique, molten or melted items take it one step further. They do this by adding a whimsical and asymmetrical appearance that doesn't have any symmetry. While a round couch is certainly a unique choice, it will most likely appear the same on both sides. However, if a molten or melting couch was created, it wouldn't appear so orderly and may have less predictable and more organic features, such as a droopier side. Therefore, while molten items have rounded edges, they often also appear as though they were once melted into a liquid and poured out. 

If you're intrigued by this style, there are a number of different pieces you could purchase, all from Etsy. For instance, those who want to be transported back to the '70s may enjoy a melted disco ball for $175, which looks like it's dripping off of the counter. Or, if you want to include a natural element, check out a molten glass sculpture that sits on a piece of teak wood, sold for $149. There are also plenty of funky drinking glasses with crushed appearances, each retailing for $20.55 to $22.72. Another popular choice? A wavy mirror with an irregular shape — the smallest size is sold for $114.40.

When introducing one of these items into your home, it will be sure to draw attention, so make sure it's left out in the open for guests to see. Further, if your home is filled with geometric shapes or sharp edges, these elements could be a great way to soften the space and make your house feel more inviting.