Unexpected Encounter
In a world where anything seems possible, one lifestyle is quickly replacing another. We are exploring the world and defining boundaries as we see fit. We are experimenting with extreme behaviour and setting high standards when it comes to luxury and excitement. There is great need for fun, freedom, passion, adventure and individuality. This is the Unexpected Encounter style trend in a nutshell. Anything is possible and everything is allowed. So, we head overseas to work for a few months, run a few marathons and do everything we can to look young and fresh. Things that are 'everyday' and 'commonplace' are remnants of a distant past.
Unexpected Encounter in interiors
The excitement we seek is translated into interiors that reflect an almost fairytale-like world. Eye-catchers play an important role and highly contrasting surrealistic objects are combined. Nothing is what it appears to be, and flowers and plants have a magical look & feel. So, don’t be surprised to see a contrasting bouquet of Calla and hanging Amaranthus – or bouquets in sugary pastels that are deceptively sweet. We see the same elusive effect in plants and plant arrangements. Leaves have ‘unusual’ colours like yellow and pink, and we see whimsically contrasting plants. In a nutshell, the arrangements colour outside the lines and tell a story whose meaning is not entirely clear.
The trend’s product ingredients
In a style trend like this one, the visual language is outspoken, surprising and sometimes even illogical. The materials used are full of contrast and unexpected. We are misled, for instance, by materials that seem to be other materials, like ceramics that look like marble. Transparent and semi-transparent objects also make an appearance. In terms of designs, the possibilities are abundant. Figurative designs are often used to create an alienating effect. Dégradé effects are also common. Together, these ingredients result in a surrealistic look & feel.
Unexpected Encounter colour palette
Besides shape, colour is the most important product ingredient of this trend. The colour palette consists of extremely bright colours that also appear watery, such as neon pastels in mint green, purple, yellow and orange.
The colours can be used in different ways. Here are three examples:
Core values of this trend
Fairytale-like, surreal, unexpected and alienating.
The other style trends
Read more about the other three Horticulture Trends 2026: Nostalgic Lens, Intriguing Decor and Orbit Revive.
Want to find out more?
For more information, please contact us via info@bloemenbureauholland.nl
