As a large part of the world is now working, socializing and exercising from home, this shift has affected drastically the interior design trends we’re likely to see in 2021, and one word has dominated above all: comfort. But, what does comfy look like, exactly? Think chestnut woods, warm colours, overflowing bookshelves stocked with books you’ve read and loved, less mass produced furniture and more reworking of passed down family pieces or ones you already own that have their own story engraved in them. Essentially, the trend is to embrace what lasts, what’s well-made and what makes you smile.
“I believe that 2021 will be a year of attributing meaning to mindfully selected pieces – the year of the artist, the craftsperson, the artisan.”
Interior design trends are not as fast paced as fashion trends, due to the fact that changing furniture every time a new trend appears is not as easy as changing into a pair of wide-leg trousers made for bold strides, or into a pencil skirt with bomber jacket as seen in Max Mara’s Spring Summer 2021 collection. However, the field of fashion and interiors are very closely intertwined, as what we watch come down the runway every season impacts how our homes evolve over time. Keep reading to discover the 2021 interior design trends that are here to stay!
I. GROUNDED COLOURS
As people are spending more time indoors, the desire to embrace the outdoors by using more grounded colours to evoke a sense of calm and comfort is more latent than ever. Emerald, burnt orange, cobalt and mustard yellow paired with humbler earth tones are the perfect combination for redefining the feeling in our homes – comforting, inviting and safe.
While adding a daring colour to an important piece of a room like a sofa can be super fun and interesting, for everyday living I tend to prefer choosing a neutral fabric for a large sofa unit, and complementing it with armchairs and decorative cushions in a beautiful lively tone. It’s one of my go-to ways of incorporating colour and texture into a space without making it too overwhelming!
II. STATEMENT MAKING WALLS
We’ve all been reminded that life’s too short, so why wait to wallpaper your home with that beautiful print that you’ve been eyeing for years but just haven’t got around to doing it? Interiors are gaining more authenticity and narrative, as wallpaper and pattern play are continuing to dominate, rather than subtle more monochromatic schemes. In other words, this year is all about going bold, having fun and decorating with conviction!
I love adding wallcoverings with structure and luminosity to highlight certain walls in a home, for example behind the headboard in a bedroom, or in the study to inspire warmth and relaxation. I’m currently obsessing over how beautiful this wallcovering designed by Oitoemponto for DeGournay is, and can’t wait to try it in an upcoming project!
III NATURAL MATERIALS
Rattan and caned furniture have gained inmense popularity in the last years, and the use of natural materials continues to be an anchor of many brands’ new collections. I think we are moving towards a rawer, more casual aesthetic, and homes are becoming textural and layered with elements of warmth. I truly believe in the increasing power of combining grounded elements like wood, linen, cotton and natural stones, creating designs that are more regional and place based than ever.
IV. INCREASED AWARENESS & DESIRE FOR CRAFTMANSHIP
As society begins to care more about where the things they own come from, who made them, and what impact they have left on the planet, companies that prioritize ethical and sustainable practices are finally getting the spotlight they deserve, and that will only grow in 2021. There is a growing interest for the expertise of skilled craftsmen and producers, often within a drive-able radius, to make our home more beautiful and reflect the incredible talent within our communities. I believe that 2021 will be a year of attributing meaning to mindfully selected pieces – the year of the artist, the craftsperson, the artisan.
V. OFFICE MAKEOVER
A space designed for work at home will have major importance in this interior design season. Whether you have an interior home office to yourself, or simply a dedicated corner to work from, this space has proven critical the past year, and part of that transition has involved designing our new work spaces.
Plus, we’ve all been there: you’re about to start your Zoom call when you realize your background isn’t particularly aesthetically pleasing. Well, this exact scenario has inspired interior designers to predict that 2021 will see a splurge of bold walls, with beautifully styled bookshelves, table lamps that provide a soft glow on your face and counteracts the harshness of overhead lighting, comfy statement chairs and presence of indoor plants which are greatly beneficial to our health, both physically and mentally.
HAVE YOU STYLED YOUR HOME OFFICE THIS YEAR?
ARE THERE ANY TRENDS THAT YOU’VE BEEN ESPECIALLY LOVING?
I’D LOVE TO KNOW IN THE COMMENTS BELOW!
IMAGE 1
Photography: Aleksander Santo
Outfit: Jorge Sanchez
Make Up & Hair: Jorge Sanchez
Location: Heaven 11, La Zagaleta by Ark Architects
Production: Sisko Akt
Published in Society Magazine
I love styling the background of my home office with real plants!! They just liven up any space! I absolutely LOVE the use of natural materials at my house. Making my home look as organic and nature is what gives me the most sense of groundness. I don’t need to leave my home to feel nature outside. I bring nature to me.
What a great idea, styling the background of the office with plants! I bet it makes a great difference in those long working hours spent at home. And I love your thoughts on bringing nature home, instead of having the need to going outside all the time to feel refreshed. Thank you for sharing your great tips! xxxx
So inspiring! Thank you for the post, love it! 🥰
Thank you for your feedback, and I’m very happy you enjoyed this post! Lots of love xx