During a time of social distancing and taking shelter in our own homes, the COVID-19 pandemic has really made us evaluate the meaning of home. We are all craving security and ease, and looking for this in the comfort of our own home. So, what does that mean for the future of home design?
In a realtor article, it is noted that “Austere polished concrete floors, stone walls, all-white color palettes, and industrial finishes can be found in homes nationwide,” but “today, that vibe feels detached from the world that we’re living in, where a safe, comfortable space to hunker down is the true luxury.”
Many designers believe that a “more is more” design approach will quickly take root because of the results of this time of quarantine. Peter Dunham acknowledges we’re probably headed into a downturn, but chooses to see the silver lining. “People are spending a lot of time in their houses. .... [They’re] noticing, Oh, my God, that looks dingy!” he says. “There’s going to be a to-do list when this is all over. Even if it’s only a month long, people are going to be sick and tired of looking at the same thing. The interior design business will get a bump because of that.”
Wallpaper makes a comeback.
Trends like wallpaper have already been on an incline throughout homes in recent years. Designers also recommend showcasing your treasures and collections from past travels and memories to display. Plush blankets and throws will likely be spotlighted in a bigger way going forward as they’re draped over furnishings. Further, colorful pillows and geometric-patterned rugs can help liven up a space.
Bold & bright colors can be used as accents in any room.
When asked what colors they think are in for home design in spring 2020 during COVID-19, designer Cynthia Murphy, president of Murphy’s Design Inc. replied, “Based on what we are seeing trending online and the information coming from the fabric and painting industries, I would expect to see yellows emerging and shades of green starting to trend more strongly.” Susan Sutter, the principal designer and owner of Susan Sutter Interiors, agreed completely by adding, “Bold and bright colors! Spring is a time to introduce color into rooms, especially as gray has been so trendy over the last few years, I think people are finally ready for more saturated colors. These colors can be used as the main wall color or accent wall, or even as accessories, pillows, and artwork. Pantone’s color of the year, Classic Blue, is always a favorite as it pairs nicely with oranges, pinks, greens, and white.”
Make your home your safe haven.
Following the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, a similar aesthetic movement became apparent, designers note. “People wanted to be at home with their loved ones, and it became more important for designers and homeowners to create homes that felt safe, secure, warm, and livable,” designer Sheila Bridges says. “Home offices or live/work/play spaces will continue to grow in importance.” Indeed, designers predict a wave of formalized home offices to gain popularity as the transition to remote working from home continues to play out.
Spending time tucked away in your home may have sounded peaceful at first, but we are all beginning to fully understand the use of the term stir-crazy. Now it seems it’s more important than ever to love the home you are in and make it as comfortable as possible. Paint is a very simple way to add big change to your space with minimal investment, and you can do it yourself during this time of social distancing. Cynthia Murphy states “It’s more important now than ever before that we take care of our personal spaces. Don’t underestimate what a fresh coat of paint, a few bright pillows, and a clean, clutter-free room will have on your mood during these difficult times.” Remember – your home should ultimately be a reflection of you! Whether you love the current trending colors or not, don’t be afraid to take a risk and do something new – what do you have to lose?
Words by: Emily Irish
