2021 home design trends

What’s In and What’s Out: 2021 Home Design Trends

A new year means new trends. 

People spent a lot of time in their homes in 2020, which means many are rethinking their home design and decor. Take a look at what trends are expected to stay in and what’s on the way out in 2021!

IN: Bold Paint Color

There are many bold, vibrant colors in 2021’s paint color predictions. From vibrant hues to darker earth tones, more people will play with color. While some will start with the walls in their home, others will keep rooms neutral and add in bold accents or furniture. 

OUT: Open Floor Plans

With people using their homes for work, school, and play, it’s natural that privacy has become an issue. I mean, have you tried having jumping on a Zoom meeting while your kids are logged into Google Classroom? While I don’t think the open flow will disappear completely, designated spaces for work or school will become a priority. 

IN: Easy-to-Clean Materials

Easy-to-clean materials are expected to rise in popularity as people not only spend more time at home, but are more conscious than ever about the spread of germs. Non-porous materials, as well as fabric designed to resist stains and bacteria, will likely become more prominent. Let’s call this a win for parents of young children!

OUT: Matching Everything

From furniture sets to monochromatic rooms, the days of perfectly matching decor may be over. By mixing furniture, finishes, and decor, design becomes more personalized. Complementary colors, designs, and materials will help add warmth and style to any room. 

IN: More Plants

Indoor plants aren’t a new concept, but you may start to see them, along with other natural elements, more than before. Indoor trees and plants act as an accent piece by bringing in a piece of the outdoors. Lighter woods, natural materials, and earthy palettes can also help to create a space inspired by nature. 

OUT: Toilet Paper

Ok, maybe not completely, but I had to add this to the list! Bidets are expected to become popular here in the US. Some are adding a bidet to the design of a remodeled bathroom, while others are opting for bidet attachments. 

What trends are you happy to see? Let me know in the comments!

Opposing Trends: Minimalism vs. Maximalism

Home is where you can let your personality and style come through. This means that when it comes to design, the options are endless!

Two home decor trends that are gaining a lot of attention right now are minimalism and maximalism. If you find yourself getting anxious when the clutter piles up, or getting rid of belongings every weekend, minimalism might be for you. For those of you who love to shop or collect new things, maximalism could be a perfect fit. 

Keep reading to learn more about these opposing design trends!

Minimalism

minimalism

Surely, you’ve heard of minimalism when it comes to home decor. A top trend for the past few years, minimalism operates on the idea that less is more. 

Minimalistic design pares down items to only the essential, creating clean, simples lines with limited decor. Often, this means that people must get rid of or stow away any excess, using Marie Kondo techniques to eliminate, organize, and store items. 

Color schemes are often a mix of neutrals or classic black and white. This helps create a serene space, and when done correctly, it creates an elegant beauty that appeals to many.

How to Achieve Minimalism at Home

If you yearn for a clutter-free environment and are willing to say goodbye to personal belongings, minimalism is calling your name. But if all you do is place furniture in a room with white walls, you’ll end up with a look that is cold and bare. 

To achieve a minimalist design that is warm and inviting:

  • Prioritize your belongings, making sure every item has a place and a purpose. 
  • Select a monochromatic or limited color palette. 
  • Use space and natural light with intention.
  • Focus on functionality and craftsmanship.
  • Integrate seamless storage. 

Maximalism

maximalist

While minimalism has been getting a lot of attention lately, for many, it’s just not practical. Maximalist style is on the other end of the spectrum, creating bold spaces that incorporate all of your most-loved possessions. 

Maximalism is all about colors, textures, and decor that create a highly personalized style.  Instead of getting rid of excess, maximalism encourages you to layer items, showcase unique pieces, collect decor you love, and blend styles. 

How to Achieve Maximalist Design

Let me be clear: don’t just pile items in a room and call it maximalism. Just like any type of design, maximalism requires thoughtful design that makes the most of your space. 

Here are some tips for incorporating maximalist style in your home.

  • Start slow, adding a few pieces at a time.
  • Mix colors, patterns, and prints. 
  • Showcase sentimental pieces, artwork, or photographs.
  • Layer items and decor. 
  • Blend styles to create an eclectic feel. 

Which Are You?

What’s your go-to style: minimalist or maximalist? Take the quiz from invaluable below to find out! Then, head over to the Social REdesign Facebook page to vote today.