Photo: houseoflilydutch on Instagram 

Cork may have once been relegated to the bulletin board above your desk, but it has since become a fashionable décor fad. In fact, cork walls are slated to become a stylish interior design trend for the year ahead. While 2017 may still be a few weeks away, it’s never too early to embrace this surprisingly chic material at home. We’ve curated a few sophisticated ways to decorate with cork this winter, in keeping with your upscale decorating tastes.

Turn to tropical inspiration and sleek accents: If you’re craving a tropical escape without leaving the four walls of your living room, cork may be your solution. Contrast your textured, edgy cork walls against decorative faux palm trees, white hardwood flooring and a glass top coffee table. Meanwhile, beige leather ottomans, woven wicker baskets and a slender silver lamp help to usher in modern, sleek décor.

Photo: sustainablematerials on Instagram 

Use cork bricks for a cool effect: For anyone who isn’t quite ready for the look of full-on cork, cork bricks may be a smart interior design move. Try adorning a classic living room with statement cork brick walls, with grey painted walls and off-white sofas for a contrasting touch. Add slender wooden shelving and red leather seats for a hint of glamour at home.

Photo: michellegersoninteriors on Instagram 

Combine light cork walls with bold prints: If you prefer over-the-top detail in your living room, trade in your typical dark cork walls for a lighter grey colour. Meanwhile, the look of grey snakeskin prints, a soft dove grey sofa and eye-catching decorative pillows in shades of blue and white help to complete your decorating statement.