2020 saw most people spending more time at home, and that may continue for a while in 2021. Either way, many people have realized that a home needs to be more than a pitstop: It should be functional, stylish, and comfortable! As a result, home makeovers are more popular than ever. Whether you’re looking to update your décor or just add a new piece or two, 2021’s home design trends are sure to inspire you.
Interior Home Trends for 2021
Shiplap, barn doors, and the modern farmhouse look have been popular for much of the last decade. But, according to some designers, these home trends are on the wane. It’s time for all-white interiors and matching furniture to step aside in favor of natural materials, bolder colors, and a more eclectic design aesthetic. With many people working from home temporarily or permanently, home trends have an increased focus on functionality over formality.
Pops of color. Pantone’s color of the year in 2020 was classic blue—a rich but somewhat dark shade. Blues are still big this year, but Pantone’s colors for 2021 are brighter and bolder. There’s Illuminating, a cheerful yellow, and Ultimate Gray, a solid-but-light neutral hue. They pair perfectly together, with the gray providing a reliable backdrop against which the brilliant yellow can pop.
Functional over formal. 2020 saw many people start working from home for the first time, and for some, it’s the new normal. As a result, there’s been a big shift in terms of how people use the space they have. In many homes, spare bedrooms or formal living spaces have been converted into home offices and other functional spaces. If there’s a room in your house that doesn’t get much use, this might be your chance to turn it into the home office, library, or craft room you’ve been wanting (and needing).
From mid-century modern to grandmillenial. The clean lines of mid-century modern décor have been popular for several years, but in 2021, this home trend is reversing itself. Instead, people are turning to what’s been dubbed grandmillenial décor, or “granny chic.” This home trend favors traditional patterns—including florals—for furnishings and walls. Hot décor elements include:
- Crocheted throws
- China and brass
- Antique paintings and frames
- Other vintage touches
A moment for wallpaper. The grandmillenial trend has paved the way for the return of another out-of-fashion design trend: That wallpaper you loved at your grandparent’s home is back in style. The quick convenience of peel-and-stick wallpaper is particularly popular, especially with renters. Easy to install and just as easy to remove, it’s perfect for a quick change.
Multi-purpose furniture. Another practical home trend that sparked in 2020 is the addition of furniture that serves multiple purposes. People are choosing pieces that can do double-duty, like seating that also provides storage space and fold-down tables that convert a tight corner into a home office.
The renaissance of industrial styling. If granny chic doesn’t sound like your thing, you might be pleased to hear that industrial styling is also seeing a resurgence in popularity, with design elements such as:
- Wood and metal
- Exposed pipes
- Brick and stonework
- High ceilings
- A neutral color palette
Exciting Kitchen and Bathroom Design Trends for 2021
Thinking of updating your bathroom or kitchen this year? There are lots of new design trends to take your inspiration from.
Industrial-style plumbing is likely to become popular in 2021, thanks to the resurging popularity of industrial design in general. Exposed pipes and brass or copper fixtures can look equally at home in the bathroom or kitchen.
Large-format wall tiles are starting to replace smaller mosaic-like tiles, but not just for aesthetic reasons. Using large-format tiles means fewer grout lines, which also makes them easier to clean. Pair with stone and stone-look fixtures for a high-end look.
Unusual kitchen designs are making a comeback after the popularity of white and gray in recent years. Add bold pops of color (Green is big in 2021.), and think outside the box when it comes to storage, with open shelving rather than overhead cabinets. Open shelving can give a smaller kitchen a more spacious feel and pairs well with the industrial-style design trend.
Wall-mounted floating vanities are back in and available in a wider range of colors and styles than ever. They’re especially ideal for smaller bathrooms, as the floating design gives the space a cleaner, more spacious look.
Smart toilets and bidets with features such as hands-free flushing and self-closing lids are on the radar this year. More convenient and hygienic, these appliances also tend to have less exposed plumbing, so they’re easier to clean too.
Bringing the Outdoors In
In 2020, most of us spent much more time indoors than we’re used to. If, like many people, you started to miss the outdoors, it might just be time to bring the outside in. There are several ways you can do this; some options include:
Let in natural light. Natural light has health and mood benefits and makes your home feel more comfortable, cozy, and welcoming. Trade heavy window treatments for sheer curtains or slim blinds, and let the sun in!
Use natural materials. From wood and stone to woven fabrics, natural materials are always in style. Rattan furniture, caning, and wicker are making a comeback in 2021, both indoors and out. Using natural materials and textures creates an organic look that helps you feel relaxed and calm, so it’s perfect when you’re spending more time at home.
Bring plants into your home. Live plants are a great accompaniment to natural light and materials, and they can help reduce stress and boost your mood too! When choosing indoor plants, make sure to choose the right plant for the environment. Plants that love full sunlight don’t do well in shady spots, and vice versa, so it’s important to take this into account. If you don’t have a green thumb, consider succulents and cacti, which thrive with minimal attention.
Outdoor Living and Décor
Spending more time at home means more time in the yard or on the deck or patio. Outdoor living spaces are becoming an extension of the spaces we use indoors. We’re cooking outdoors more often, and when the weather is good, we are just as likely to relax outside as inside. Plus, with firepits and other forms of outdoor heating, we’re starting to extend the outdoor season and use those outdoor spaces for longer periods throughout the year.
Kitchen gardens saw a huge uptick in use during 2020, with people looking for new hobbies to pass the time and a way to reduce food bills. Growing your own fruits, veggies, and herbs adds nutrition to your daily menu, helps you enjoy being outside, and even provides gentle exercise.
Outdoor hot water is an increasingly popular trend for avid gardeners and home landscapers. It’s definitely easier to thoroughly wash outside instead of tracking dirt into the house! And having hot water on tap outside adds convenience for outdoor dining and entertaining too.
Backyard tech provides another way to connect the outdoor and indoor environments. By using a Wi-Fi booster to get internet outdoors, people can stream movies or watch TV in their own backyards. And simple décor updates such as color-changing LEDs can add a fun element to the environment, perfect for entertaining or just for a relaxing evening at home.
Realize Your Home’s Potential in 2021
Following each year’s new home décor trends can be fun, but if you haven’t updated your home design in a while, now might be a great time to get started. A fresh coat of paint and a few new décor touches, or even an entire room remodel, could see you enjoying your home in a completely new way!
