When it comes to new home design, Covid has upended the way we think. In 2020, we wanted open spaces, showcase kitchens and data nooks. In 2021, we want our homes to be less decorative, more functional and much cleaner. Take a look at what you can expect next year.
Soothing Colors
PANTONE chose a combination of 17-5104 Ultimate Gray + PANTONE 13-0647 Illuminating for its 2021 Color of the Year to create a feeling of strength and hopefulness. Consider this color for the kitchen, bathrooms and children’s rooms. Other colors that should prove popular are bronzes, muted greens and blues.
The Invisible Kitchen
We love open floor plans but more cooking at home has created more noticeable clutter. Look for more delineation between the family room and the kitchen with high breakfast bars to hide a sink full of dishes. Kitchen appliances will be more seamless and integrated as well as having hues to blend into the background.
Kitchen Zones
Kitchens will become more functional with defined zones for cooking, baking and prepping and stations for beverages and snacks.
Bathroom Retreats
Garden tubs have long been a staple of primary baths but new designs will include steam showers, aromatherapy shower heads and bathtub fillers that can hold a cup of tea or glass of wine.
Dedicated Office Space
Working from home will continue into 2021, so dedicated office space will be integrated into most homes. Look for opportunities to add second offices to be used by working spouses and school-aged children.
Sliding Doors and Partitions
The trend toward sliding doors will continue so that family members can have the privacy they need to conduct Zoom calls or read a book. The doors will most likely open to formal dining rooms, game rooms and kitchens.
Expansive Outdoor Spaces
Larger patios, outdoor fireplaces, fire pits and big lawns will be must-haves in new homes. Homeowners will want to be able to divide their outdoor spaces into play areas for the kids and entertainment areas for adults.
Clean Air Technology
Builders have begun building homes that promise cleaner air quality. Many use healthier building components including low VOC paints/stains, spray foam insulation and sealed insulated ducts. Some are installing air filters designed to remove smaller particles that can reduce or eliminate a variety of air allergens including dust, lint, pollen, mold and even some bacteria and viruses.
