# Decorative Expression Consumers turn to chalkboard decor as a means to express personal creativity. By [Tana Makmanee](https://www.trendhunter.com/tmak), SVP, Research Services at Trend Hunter | Published Jan 30, 2014, updated Apr 9, 2014 | Category: [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/pro/category/modern-art-and-design-trends) Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/decorative-expression ## Key Figures - Trend score: 4.3/10 - Evidence articles: 4 ## What is the Decorative Expression trend? **Decorative Expression:** As a method to stand out from the ordinary, consumers look to eclectic outlets of expression to showcase their personal tastes. Chalkboard decor offers consumers the chance to express themselves through customized visual designs, easily allowing for adjustment based on mood. This illustrates a growing demand for expressive features in everyday life. ## At a Glance - Evidence: 4 featured examples - Articles from: May 3, 2013 to Sep 16, 2014 - Published: Jan 30, 2014 - Patterns: [Acceleration](https://www.trendhunter.com/pattern/acceleration) - Megatrends: [Simplicity](https://www.trendhunter.com/megatrend/simplicity), [Nostalgia](https://www.trendhunter.com/megatrend/nostalgia), [Personalization](https://www.trendhunter.com/megatrend/personalization) ## Audience - Gender: 30% men, 70% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial - Top markets: North America, Europe, Asia ## Themes within the Decorative Expression trend ### Personalized Decor As consumers seek to stand out, personalized decor is increasingly popular, such as using chalkboard paint. ### DIY Gardening DIY gardeners are looking for ways to label and organize their gardens with customizable chalkboard planters instead of plastic labels. ### Collaborative Workspaces Offices are becoming more creative and less traditional by adding chalkboard walls to encourage collaboration and inspire creativity among staff. ## What the Decorative Expression trend means for industry ### For Home Decor Given the popularity of DIY decor and personalized home designs, businesses in the home decor industry should consider offering customizable products. ### For Gardening/Landscaping Companies in the gardening industry can offer customizable pots and planters to DIY gardeners looking for a unique way to label their plants. ### For Interior Design/Architecture Businesses in architecture and interior design should consider incorporating chalkboard walls and other playful and inspiring design elements into modern workspaces to encourage collaboration and creativity. ## Trend signals for Decorative Expression Trend score 4.3 out of 10, from popularity 42%, activity 79%, freshness 8%. - Popularity: 42% - Activity: 79% - Freshness: 8% ## Examples of the Decorative Expression trend 4 featured examples from May 3, 2013 to Sep 16, 2014. - [Blackboard Workspace Decor](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/workspace-decor): Evernote App's California Office Encourages Collaborative Thinking (Category: Art & Design) Implication: Interior designers can explore new ways to incorporate collaborative design elements and inspiring decor into office spaces. - [Playful Customizable Domiciles](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/swedish-home): The Style is in the Details of This Swedish Home (Category: Art & Design) Implication: Disruptive innovation opportunities in creating customizable homes with meticulously designed rooms. - [DIY Chalkboard Planters](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/diy-chalboard): This DIY Tutorial Explains How to Convert Plant Pots into Chalkboards (Category: Art & Design) Implication: The DIY chalkboard planter trend presents an opportunity for businesses in the home and garden industry to offer innovative planters and related products. - [Sophisticated Chalkboard Furniture](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/matchbox-table): The Matchbox Table Will Appeal to Children and Adults (Category: Art & Design) Implication: The home decor industry can explore the market demand for furniture that combines a playful vibe with elegant design, catering to families who want to maintain a sophisticated aes… ## Recent trend clusters - [Oven Aesthetics](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/decorative-casserole-dishes) (Art & Design) - [Assisted Choices](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/weight-loss-medication-support) (Lifestyle) - [Storyline Sips](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/themed-drink-menus) (Lifestyle) - [Bedtime Cocoon](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/sleep-sensory-blocking) (Lifestyle) ## Trending in Art & Design - [Park-Model Tiny Homes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/park-model-tiny-homes) - [Handmade Craft Tradeshow Initiatives](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ny-now-handmade-division) - [Recycled Neon Light Sculptures](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/encore-encore) - [Electrically Powered Airline Seats](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/premium-economy-seat) All articles: [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign)