“Banal in both exterior and interior, the vaguely barn-like structures with all-white walls, black windows, bleached wide-oak flooring, and abstracted greige carpets inspired by the galaxy or jellyfish or other sea life in mauve-y, earthy color schemes. They look like depressing medical scans. Also, the black-and-white photography on the walls of horses, or sad gray days at the beach!” —Patrick Mele, Patrick Mele
It’s time to bid farewell to white and bright palettes, Mandy Cheng says.
Photo: Wongsakorn Dulyavit/Getty Images“Safe” color palettes
“Bold colors, layers, patterns, and sumptuous textiles are fighting the previously popular white and bright color palettes, and I love it. I’m ready for the light and bright trends to take a seat on the sidelines for a while.” —Mandy Cheng, Mandy Cheng Design
Backlit stone finishes
“We would love to see this feature go away in private homes, as it dates the home quickly. We don’t need to highlight the beauty of natural stone by adding artificial backlighting to it. Let the material shine on its own.” —Edel Legaspi, Legaspi Courts Design
Does remote work have people reconsidering the open floor plan? Rachel Bullock thinks so.
Photo: Klaus Vedfelt/Getty ImagesOpen floor plans
“With more people spending time at home during the pandemic, many are starting to realize that the separation of space is useful. No one wants to be on competing Zooms in the same kitchen/living/dining room. Having distinct spaces also allows each zone to have its own character, and having everything connected can make a space feel too cavernous when you are not entertaining. Defined, intimate spaces that offer everyday coziness will start to take priority over the once-a-year giant party.” —Rachel Bullock, LAUN Los Angeles
Lazily used design terms
“For starters, the term ‘maximalist’ is overused and starting to represent nothing other than throwing a whole lot into the pot and hoping it comes out right. Another common one is ‘transitional’—let’s instead get behind an aesthetic and work it in a committed fashion rather than winding up personality-less. —P.M.
