Home trends for 2021

Pinterest and others have revealed the biggest home decor trends that will shape 2021. With more than 400 million people using Pinterest to find tomorrow’s ideas, the 'Pinterest Predicts' report highlights emerging searches and the increase in searches year over year. We thought we would take a look at some of the key trends for 2021. 

As discussed in our previous blog 'The flexible home', having spent the best part of the year working, schooling, exercising and much more from home, our requirements of rooms and interior space has undoubtedly changed, sometimes drastically. Pinterest also reports a rise in specialised rooms or spaces, offering everything that open-plan does not. This is as much to do with privacy as it is to do with creating double-duty rooms that serve special purposes.

Broken-plan living

The idea of broken-plan living was noted as an emerging design trend for new properties last year. As discussed in 'The flexible home' the evolution of open-plan living continues but it is less about one big space and more about the clever use of it. This will be all about using changes in floor levels or finishes if possible, partitions and room dividers such as bookcases. Defining distinct areas, or zones for cooking, studying, hobbies and relaxing. Harvey Jones Kitchens perfectly summarise the broken-plan design trend 'The idea is to retain all the things you love about open-plan – particularly the light and openness – while at the same time zoning the space to allow for more privacy should you need it'.

Japandi

Japandi was talked about at the start of 2020, and now as we head into 2021 it's emerging as the biggest decor trend of all. It's where Japanese design meets Scandanavian aesthetic, with sleek lines, neutral colour schemes and calming set-ups.

Kris Manalo, the senior upholstery buyer at design store Heal’s, defines the trend: “Aspects of the Scandi notion of ‘hygge’, (the Nordic term for the homely feeling of cosiness), and Japanese ‘wabi-sabi’, (finding beauty in imperfection), harmonise to create a stress-free atmosphere.” Japandi is a good fit with hectic modern lifestyles, because “these pieces allow people to create a clean, calm environment in which they can truly unwind”. We have certainly enjoyed the interpretations we've seen in Bristol homes and can concur it's proving to suit peoples needs right now.

Modern minimalist kitchens

For many families, the kitchen is a focal point of the home. Parents spend hours each week cooking or seeking solace from a busy day, possibly with a glass of wine. Children crowd the kitchen bar for after-school snacks or to do homework and its often the place for family meals. The importance of the kitchen in everyday activities means that it can feel uncomfortable to simplify the space so that it meets the minimalist code. After all, where is the warmth of a stark countertop or a monochromatic kitchen island? But many homeowners also relish the calmness of a minimal aesthetic, especially when homelife can be as busy and crowded as in recent times. 

The trick is choosing high-quality materials and items that put clean lines, simplicity, and functionality at the forefront. Prioritise innovative storage and multifunctional furniture. Minimalist kitchens often favour light colour palettes, bright whites, soft greys and muted stone shades are your go-to. You may also want to incorporate darker shades to anchor your space, particularly in your worktops or cabinets. Wren kitchens say 'Another incredibly important part of any successful, minimalist design, is the lighting. Too warm and you'll take away from your intended look, too cold and the space will appear unwelcoming and stark. By using spotlights and dimmers you can make it easier to get your lighting perfect. Placing lighting under your kitchen cupboards can also look great. By using muted colours, choosing stylish appliances and thinking carefully about your work surfaces and lighting, you can start to create a minimalist style kitchen you'll really love.'

Mudrooms (Boot-rooms to us Brits! although UK winters do suggest 'mudroom' is appropriate...)

Mudrooms are getting an upgrade according to Pinterest (& others)! Usually located off of the kitchen or garage, and originally back entrances, a mudroom is a place to take off muddy shoes, coats and wet clothing. It's an American term but in UK homes, this equates to a boot room, or a utility and/or laundry room if you're lucky enough to have the extra space. They seem to be getting a lot more attention and design considerations lately. In part to optimise the space and make it as practical as possible for the whole household, who's spending so much more time at (and near) home. And in part to look as stylish and as considered as the rest of the house.  

Shelfies

For 2021, 'shelfies are the new gallery walls', reveals Pinterest. Kitchen shelves will be the new favourite corner of the house, styled with eye-catching appliances, coloured glassware and handmade clay plates. It initially started off as a basis to showcase your bookshelf (and that impressive collection of books), and it still is, but now you'll equally find artfully curated shelves with plant pots, candles, photo frames and ornaments. In a way, it's an opportunity to show off your styling credentials, and Pinterest users are currently going crazy for it.

Neon

'Neon rooms will get the spotlight treatment — especially from Gen Z,' apparently. Bedrooms are being reinvented with bright, colour-drenched lighting for moody looks, all of which is achieved with LED lights. It has come a long way from its roots in the 80s and 90s. Neon lights have become works of art adorning the most stylish walls, and splashes of neon shades, when used carefully, can lift a whole room. So it is no surprise that the vibrant neon trend is set to be big news in 2021. Pinterest reported an 800% increase in searches for ‘neon room’ during the last year, and the trend shows no sign of slowing down. Neon LED lights have led the way for the trend, transforming dull and tired walls into works of art. 

Gallery 

Fri 15 Jan 2021