Though home design trends are always changing, the events of 2020 have us focused on two main themes: building a functional space, and creating a sense of calm and joy despite a tumultuous outside world. We spoke to five experts about what design trends we can expect to see going into 2021. Why we love it: By painting your walls a soothing color like blue, your room is instantly transformed into a place for relaxation. As Long says, “Because you’re spending the majority of your time at home, you just want to have a place where you can exhale.” Why we love it: There are so many benefits to natural light, including an increase in serotonin. And because we’re not venturing out as often due to social distancing, filling your home with sunlight has never been more important. Why we love it: Sure, plants make any space look beautiful. But they also positively impact your health by purifying the air and even improving your mood — which is something we could all use after 2020. Why we love it: This is your chance to make a space totally your own. Have you always wanted a craft room? What about a library? Take out that dining table and DIY the room you’ve always wanted. Why we love it: Multi-purpose furniture is a game-changer for our current stay-at-home life, especially if you’re in a smaller house or apartment. Why we love it: Giving your space a sense of texture is simple, especially if you go heavy on fabrics. Interior designer Oksana Kreiman recommends adding a leather pillow, a faux-fur throw or a knitted pillow or pouf to your room for an extra soft and homey touch. Why we love it: As you’re building your ideal environment, take the opportunity to declutter and downsize what you own. Embrace your inner Marie Kondo! Why we love it: Lots of storage keeps you breathing easy in your home while still letting you have what brings you joy, like craft projects, games or books, within reach when you need them. Why we love it: Wallpaper, particularly peel-and-stick wallpaper, is an excellent decor choice for renters and those who like to frequently change up their space. “You can put it up like a giant sticker and when you get tired of it, when you want to switch your style, you can take it down and swap it out,” Wayne says. Why we love it: These fun, unexpected color bombs infuse your home with personality. And (most importantly) they can cultivate a sense of happiness when you’re holed up at home. Why we love it: Before you start planning a total renovation, this does not mean you have to start putting up walls. In fact, this can be as simple as thinking through zoning out your home so everyone has a designated work station. And, if all else fails, invest in a room divider. Why we love it: When you pair these new, sleek furnishings with black and green motifs, you’ll have a real wow-factor kitchen. “People are a little bit tired of the white and gray,” Kreiman says. “We’re going to be seeing more of the stylish, more unique approach to the kitchen cabinet design.” Why we love it: This trend is so accessible. Etsy is filled with affordable prints, and if you’re artsy you can even paint a one-of-a-kind piece and frame it yourself—there is so much inspo out there. Why we love it: Granny chic is a fun and sustainable way to style. You can find so many pieces at vintage stores or even upcycle your own hand-me-downs.
