Given that most people experienced 2020 as a uniquely long and devastating year, it should come as no surprise that homeowners across America have been celebrating the transition to 2021 by redecorating to match the world’s increased optimism. While there’s no wrong way to decorate a house, most people want to keep up with the changing times. Read on to find out about the top interior design trends to expect in 2021 and how to implement them.
1. Embracing Minimalism
Minimalism has been around as a decorating concept for some time, but 2021 may be the year it goes truly mainstream. Homeowners can embrace minimalism without making their living spaces boring by trying out simple light fixtures like those found at Steel Lighting Co, installing new storage to hide clutter, and sticking to just a few colors instead of complex color schemes.
2. Primary Palettes
Wondering how to choose those few key colors? This may sound paradoxical at first, but today’s interior decorators are going bold in their embrace of minimalism. Homeowners can try this tactic out for themselves by choosing two primary colors and setting them against a muted palette. In neutral spaces with wood floors or white walls, try choosing similarly colored accent pieces that stand out from the background without creating too much visual complexity. If a new coat of paint is in order, try one of Pantone’s colors of the year: Ultimate Gray and Illuminating.
3. Hang a Wall Mural
Even with a generally minimalist aesthetic, it’s perfectly fine to install large wallcoverings or murals that give viewers a chance to escape into the outdoors or even celebrate another part of the world. Try to choose wall hangings or murals that add both texture and depth to the room, and stick to just one piece for optimal effect. Remember, the idea is to create a focal point that draws in the viewer, not to be overwhelming.
4. Take a Different Approach and Go Cottagecore
Not into minimalism? The good news is, there’s another growing trend that offers far more comfort and nostalgia. People are calling it cottagecore. Cottagecore embraces the aesthetics of country living but incorporates elements of luxury, such as gold accessories and elegant, vintage decorations. It’s also fine to combine elements of cottagecore with other folksy styles and more modern country vibes.
5. Bring the Outside In
Whether home decorators opt to go minimalist, embrace the growing cottagecore trends with all of their sentimental hearts, or opt for a somewhere-in-between approach, they shouldn’t overlook the growing trend toward installing and caring for houseplants. There’s no need to turn the living room into a greenhouse. Adding just a handful of easy-to-care-for houseplants can make any home feel more expansive and welcoming, no matter what aesthetic its residents choose to embrace.
6. Opt for Functional Over Formal
Who really uses formal dining rooms more than once a year? Instead of leaving all that stuffy furniture in place in anticipation of the one Christmas dinner large enough to draw a crowd, think about repurposing formal dens and dining rooms. Think home office, playroom, or lounge. The days of oppressive formality are over, so don’t be afraid to get creative.
The Bottom Line
The interior design trends for 2021 embrace an interesting mix of modernism and nostalgia. Some designers are going for maximum comfort, while others just want to get all the clutter out of their spaces and embrace a minimalist perspective. These are both great approaches to home design, and both can be adapted to different personal tastes and styles.
