As we dive into a new year, we will see design trends that will give a home its own rhythm. Nature is welcomed “in,” and you may just never want to leave. Consumers crave more down-to-earth comfort, authenticity and livability from their home. This year will embrace imperfection, and the desire for authenticity over luxury. Home design will continue to support the art of simply slowing down.
Here are three key design trends I have on my radar for the new year that will refresh, reimagine and reinvent a home.
Curves That Comfort
Scalloped, circular shapes and curves are strongly trending. This form is approachable, comforting and creates a sense of luxury without trying too hard. Rounded kitchen islands say “let’s get social.” Curved ottomans and couches in intimate gathering areas display sculptural sophistication and style. In my market in Atlanta, a popular trend has become arched doorways from the mudroom to the kitchen or the family room into the master bedroom. These curvy shapes are hugging spaces and creating welcoming interiors.
Nature-Mimicking Texture
Embrace the not-so-perfect as nature-based materials take center stage in kitchens and baths. These might include natural marble, polished metal or rustic and raw-like wood and stone. Natural elements deliver textures that set the mood for comfort and completeness, offering a distinctive look that creates more personalized, memorable spaces. In my market, this trend is also showing up in wallpaper that has a 3D-like texture and that also can act as a sound-dampening layer in, say, a golf simulator room.
Soft Story-Telling Classics
Sustainability is top of mind, but it’s coming from reaching into the past. Vintage pieces are “in,” but it’s by using them strategically that evokes a special feeling of home. Furniture that is reusable, remade or repurposed has a story. We’re also finding this trend comes with unexpected classic patterns being reimagined.
Overall, these three design trends reveal how consumers are wanting to live and what they value—and it’s being reflected in home staging to help spaces resonate more with home buyers’ preferences, too.
With the rise of this more relaxed style of living, it’s no wonder natural materials, soft geometry and vintage elements with a story are the ultimate personalized statement pieces. The era of picture-perfect, photoshopped spaces are fading in favor of more distinct designs that can’t be easily replicated. It’s about creating a place that looks and feels more like a home—with a more authentic style that home buyers will appreciate as well.
