5 Home Design Trends for 2021

We’ve spent so much more time at home this past year. And for many of us, our homes have become our office, classroom, gym and - most importantly - our safe haven during times of uncertainty. So it’s no surprise to see that this year’s design trends for 2021 revolve around soothing colour palettes, cozy character, and quiet retreats.

When looking at making changes in your home this year, be mindful of modern design preferences when planning a remodel or even redecorating. Over-personalized or unpopular renovations could lower your property’s value. And selecting out-of-style fixtures and finishes could cause your home to feel out dated quickly. Making a plan starts with knowing how long you plan to live in your home. While I fully believe you should make home decor choices based on your enjoyment NOW, consider what it will take to get it back to a more generic show home style if you want to sell in the next 3-5 years. If you’re in your home for life? Go nuts!

To help inspire your design projects this year, I’ve rounded up five current home trends. Keep in mind, not all of these will work well in every house. If you plan to buy, list, or renovate your property, give me a call and I can help you realize your vision while maximizing the impact of your investment.

1. Uplifting Colours

Colours are gravitating toward warm and happy shades that convey a sense of coziness, comfort, and wellbeing. This year’s palettes draw from earthy hues, warm neutrals, and soothing blues and greens.1

While white and gray are still safe options, expect to see alternative neutrals become increasingly popular choices for walls, cabinets, and furnishings in 2021. For a fresh and sophisticated look, try one of these 2021 paint colours of the year:

● Aegean Teal (coastal blue) by Benjamin Moore

● Urbane Bronze (brownish-gray) by Sherwin-Williams

● Soft Candlelight (muted yellow) by Valspar

On the opposite end of the spectrum, indigo, ruby, sapphire and plum are showing up on everything from fireplace mantels and floating shelves to fabrics and home accessories. These classic, rich hues can help bring warmth, depth, and a touch of luxury to your living space.

To incorporate these colours, I recommend using the “60-30-10 Rule.” Basically, choose a dominant colour to cover 60% of your room. For example, your walls, rugs, and sofa might all be varying shades of beige or gray. Then layer in a secondary colour for 30% of the room. This might include draperies and accent furniture. Finally, select an accent colour for 10% of your room, which can be showcased through artwork and accessories.2

Photo by Tom Stringer Design Partners - More dining room photos

2. Curated Collections

After a decade of minimalism, there’s been a shift towards highly-decorative and personalized interiors that incorporate more colour, texture, and character. Clearly-defined styles (e.g., mid-century modern, industrial, modern farmhouse) are being replaced by a curated look, with furnishings, fixtures, and accessories from all periods, that appear to have been collected over time.3

This trend has extended to the kitchen, where atmosphere has become as important as functionality. The ubiquitous all-white kitchen is fading in popularity as homeowners opt for unique touches that help individualize their space. If you’re planning a kitchen remodel, consider mixing in additional neutrals—like gray, black, and light wood—for a more custom, pieced-together look. And instead of a subway tile backsplash, check out zellige tile (i.e., handmade, square Moroccan tiles) for a modern alternative with old-world flair.4

Photo by M Prevost Design - Look for kitchen design inspiration

3. Reimagined Living Spaces

The pandemic forced many of us to rethink our home design. From multipurpose rooms to converted closets to backyard cottages, we’ve found creative ways to manage virtual meetings and school. Designers expect these changes to impact the way we live and work for years to come.

Some home builders are even predicting the end of the open-concept floor plan as we know it.5 Instead, buyers are searching for cozier spaces with more separation and privacy. meaning the return of walls, alcoves and sliding partitions that enable homeowners to section off rooms as needed.6

The necessity of a home office is also here to stay. But what if you don’t have a dedicated room? Alternative workspaces have become so popular that one of the biggest trends on Pinterest this year is the “cloffice”— a spare closet turned into a home office. Searches for “home library design” and “bookshelf room divider” are on the rise, as well.7

Photo by Butter Lutz Interiors, LLC - Look for home office pictures

4. Staycation-Worthy Retreats

With travel options limited right now, more homeowners are turning their vacation budgets into staycation budgets.8 Essentially, this recreate the resort experience at home—to be enjoyed 365 days a year!

Bedrooms should always provide a soothing sanctuary for rest and relaxation. But this year, minimalist decor and muted colours are giving way to bolder statement pieces.3 To create a “boutique hotel” look in YOUR bedroom, start with a large, upholstered headboard in a rich colour or pattern. Layer on organic linen bedding and a chunky wool throw, then complete the look with a pair of matching bedside wall lights.9

Vacation-vibes extend into the bathroom with some of the top luxury upgrades for 2021. Large, zero-entry showers for two, a floating vanity with hands-free faucets, or a radiant-heated floor create the ultimate spa-like experience.10

Photo by Coda Construction LLC - More bathroom ideas

5. Outdoor Upgrades

From exercise to gardening to safer options for entertaining, the pandemic has led has us using our outdoor spaces more than ever. In fact, backyard swimming pool sales skyrocketed in 2020, with many installers reporting unprecedented demand.11 But a new pool isn’t the only way to elevate your outdoor area this year.

Huge composite decks have become a favourite upgrade for their low-maintenance and durability. In 2021, creative deck design elements are on the rise, including unique inlays, wider planks, and multiple deck board colours. Add stair or bistro lights for a touch of ambiance while enhancing safety and visibility.8

Photo by Urban Oasis Design & Construction LLC - Look for deck pictures

designed to sell

Are you contemplating a remodel in 2021?

Want to find out how upgrades could impact the value of your home?

Buyer preferences range by neighbourhood, demographic and price range, so get in touch for insights and tips on how to maximize the return on your investment. I can share my insights, offer tips on how to maximize your return on investment and, if you’re in the market to sell, I can run a Comparative Market Analysis on your home to find out how it compares to others in the area.

Contact me now to schedule a free consultation!

Sources:

1. HGTV Canada –
https://www.hgtv.ca/decorating/photos/home-design-trends-for-2021-1942419/#

2. The Spruce –

https://www.thespruce.com/timeless-color-rule-797859

3. The Kit -
https://thekit.ca/life/home/home-decor-trends-2021-inspiration/

4. Houzz –

https://www.houzz.com/magazine/36-home-design-trends-ready-for-takeoff-in-2021-stsetivw-vs~142229851

5. Zillow -
https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-end-of-open-floor-plans-how-homes-will-look-different-after-coronavirus-301080662.html

6. HGTV Canada -
https://www.hgtv.ca/shows/family-home-overhaul/photos/the-top-design-trends-for-2021-according-to-hgtv-canada-design-experts-1943092/#currentSlide=5

7. Pinterest -
https://business.pinterest.com/content/pinterest-predicts/more-door/

8. Canadian Contractor -
https://www.canadiancontractor.ca/buildwire/decking-trends-for-2021/