Pinterest has revealed the biggest trends tipped to shape 2023 — and rainwater harvesting is among the top five.

As part of its annual Pinterest Predicts report, the social media platform found that searches for 'rainwater harvesting architecture' have increased by a whopping 155%, with 'rain barrel ideas' also surging by 100%. But what exactly is it?

The eco-friendly approach is the collection and storage of rain, using it as an alternative or complementary source to mains water. Simply put, all you have to do is collect rainwater (with a water butt, for example), and then use it to wash your car, water plants or fill ponds.

According to previous research by Rain Harvesting, a rainwater harvesting system can reduce domestic mains water usage by up to 50%. They also found that rainwater can be particularly useful inside the home, too, with purposes including indoor cleaning, washing clothes and toilet flushing.

Speaking about the trend, Wayfair's Resident Style Advisor, Nadia McCowan Hill, explains: "A simple addition to make your home more efficient, if you have outdoor space, is to invest in a rain barrel or water butt. They can help you to save water and reduce your energy bills. There are a number of shapes and designs, from compact ones for smaller gardens to large-scale heavy duty barrels to maximise water-saving."

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Credit: wayfair.co.uk

As well as this, Pinterest also predicts that households will look for more natural sustainable solutions, including investing in drought-tolerant landscapes and embracing rock drainage landscaping.

"Millions of people turn to Pinterest each month to find inspiration for their next interior and DIY projects, and from their search terms we know what they're planning to do and buy next - it's a bit like having a crystal ball," Matt Siberry, Head of Home at Pinterest UK, says.

"Sustainability is going to be key for 2023 as home decor lovers are becoming increasingly eco-conscious. Rainwater-harvesting techniques, spa-like showers over baths and upcycled heirlooms will be taking centre stage as we enter the new year."

Take a look at the top gardening trends for 2023, according to Pinterest:

5 top gardening trends for 2023

  1. Rainwater harvesting architecture (+155% increase)
  2. Drought-tolerant landscape design (+385%)
  3. Beautiful rain barrel ideas (+100%)
  4. Rain chain drainage (+35%)
  5. Rock drainage landscaping (+70%)
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Lisa Joyner
Deputy Daily Editor, Country Living and House Beautiful

 Lisa Joyner is the Deputy Daily Editor at House Beautiful UK and Country Living UK, where she's busy writing about home and interiors, gardening, dog breeds, pets, health and wellbeing, countryside news, small space inspiration, and the hottest properties on the market. Previously, she has written for Conde Nast Traveller, House & Garden and Marie Claire magazine. Lisa studied at University For The Creative Arts, where she completed a BA in Fashion Journalism.