Design Trends for 2021

As a designer, I am never one to follow a trend.  While they certainly exist and are seen in every aspect of our lives, trends are not sustainable in the built environment, especially if they are applied to what I refer to as “large ticket items.”

Colors are hot one year and out the next.   Finishes change and can “date” a look in your home.   When I work with clients, I always inquire about their sense of style.  How do they want their environment to “feel” and “look.” 

When I first began practicing design, the “Ralph Lauren Library look” was very much on trend.  Dark green walls, mahogany furnishings, bookcases and millwork and deep burgundy textiles, paint, and other materiality.   This was considered a classic look.  Warm and cozy. 

Today we are still using deep and dark shades and tonal values, but they are generally more neutral.   Darjeeling paint by Benjamin Moore on a feature wall behind a bed creates a great backdrop as does Admiral by Pratt and Lambert.  

Below are some other trends we have spotted and wanted to share with you:

·      Black is back!  From plumbing fixtures to appliances, lighting, hardware and more, black is here to stay.   As a member of the Baldwin Hardware Design Council, we have seen black as not only a classic, but also a modern pairing with new hardware designs and mixing with brushed gold for a wonderful metallic duo!

·      Earthy color palettes are easy to live with and stay classic and wonderful over time.   A neutral space feels large and airy and can be dressed up with texture and pattern.  Great chenille’s, boucle’s, textural fabrics and throws, sheer curtains and woven natural raffia can create a light and inviting space. 

·      Mixed metals – I have always loved mixing metals and now more than ever, this is being seen in every room of the home.   From mixed metallic artwork to hardware and lighting, it gives us a change to inject variety into the built environment. 

·      Livable luxury has become a catch phrase.  While clients want to have a luxurious space, they also do not want to live in a museum.  Quality pieces that can withstand the dog or toddler jumping up to play are very much on trend right now.   Creating a more versatile design aesthetic is the key to a happy client! 

·      Performance Textiles - durable fabrics are key to clients these days.  I love Crypton™, Kravet Armor™, Perrenials™, Sunbrella™, and other fabrics that have great durability, are water and stain proof.  Plus, they all look fabulous and nothing like the old school textiles. 

·      Blush Tones are still the rage from make-up to fashion to interiors.  They are especially popular with women and create an inviting, soothing, and restful space. 

·      Bidets and Washlets – with COVID came the toilet paper shortage and the need for alternative cleaning methods.  Bidets and TOTO washlets (a heated seat that can be affixed to your toilet that is armed with a spray wand and other fabulous tech features) are selling out across the globe.  If this is not in your budget, try the portable Ecojet! 

·      Hanging Pendants over nightstands – while table lamps are traditionally placed on the nightstand, using decorative pendants has gained popularity providing illumination, while not taking up valuable real estate on the nightstand surface. 

·      Work-Life spaces create multi-purpose opportunities.   Convertible furnishings, like the custom designs found at RESOURCE furniture are a great way to maximize the functionality of your spaces.