After spending so much time in our homes in 2020, we are all acutely aware of what is and isn't working for us, what makes us feel at home and comfortable, and how we want to go forward. This year, we are predicting a return of classic, historic elements, an embracing of patina and imperfection, and more acceptance of color and pattern that simply makes us happy. Here are some of the ways we are seeing these trends manifest and how we look forward to using them in our clients' spaces and our own.
Architecture by Peter Block | Photo by Emily Followill for Southern Living
Time-honored Details
The arched doorway, casement windows, gas lantern, boxwood hedge, limewashed brick, and cedar shake roof feel as though they are from a by-gone era, yet this façade renovation is less than a decade old. These nostalgic details give a house a sense of authenticity and permanence — two qualities we are all wanting more of these days.
Design by Ham Interiors
Luxe Layers
Interior design this year will reflect our desire for comfort through more layering of color and pattern in our spaces. Wallpaper has certainly come in and out of fashion through the years, and thanks to improved application techniques, is making a comeback. It goes a long way toward making a space feel cozy and intimate and is a simple way to make a strong decorative statement whether it is traditional (as the Lewis & Wood paper above), whimsical, or even sleek and modern. To use it successfully, treat it as you would any other pattern and pair it with complimentary patterns and colors.
Design by Heidi Caillier Design | Photo by Haris Kenjar
Destination Spaces
After spending so much time at home in recent months, we are all at bit disenfranchised with palatial open floor plans and see the value of the cozy spaces and private nooks often found in historic homes. We are predicting a return to destination rooms that invite lingering with a cup of coffee (or glass of wine!) and even the return of eat-in kitchens. We love this cozy dining nook in the home of Seattle designer Heidi Caillier and can imagine how useful it must be in a bustling home.
Design by Landed Interiors | Photos by Haris Kenjar
Vintage-inspired Baths
The all-white bathroom has had its moment, but we are craving something a bit warmer. Dark wood or painted cabinetry, plumbing with warm finishes, heavily-veined stones, and tile in a color or with an irregular hand-made touch give a bathroom a classic, homey feel. Even if a full bathroom renovation isn't an option, you can bring in texture through towels, a vintage rug, or accessories in a black or brass metal finish.
Design by Lauren Liess | Photo by Helen Norman
Undecorated Spaces
With the onset of social media, over-styling seems to be everywhere — and it can be difficult to maintain, even for the tidiest among us. We are seeking a home that feels less styled to the ‘nth degree and more collected over time. One that highlights the unique personalities of our family members and reflects our interests, travels, and history more than it reflects the current trends. An undecorated space doesn't mean a messy one, but we believe that our bookshelves should reflect our reading lists, and our grandmother's antiques can be incorporated in our homes gracefully and stylishly.
Design by Stephanie Sabbe | Photo by Paige Rumore
Timeless Textures
There is just no substitute for the authenticity that a natural material offers in a space. Marble, soapstone, limestone, un-lacquered brass, slate, etc., will patina over time and show wear, but in a way that is more elegant and genuine than their synthetic counterparts. Think of the marble-topped tables in a French cafe — they simply get better with age.
Of course in modern times, a mix of synthetic and natural materials is often the right choice, and we are fortunate to live in a time when so many excellent dupes are available. When choosing between natural and man-made, each person will have to determine his or her personal tolerance for wear, but a good rule of thumb is to keep the real materials at hand, and save on things you touch less often.
If any of these spaces or ideas resonate and you are interesting learning about our services, we invite you to fill out our design inquiry.