By Michael Gruber, President, Building Industry Association of Stark & East Central Ohio
Many home owners are rethinking their space after spending so much time at home during the past year. The pandemic shifted into our living spaces, activities that typically take place outside our homes, such as work and school. Designs this year reflect changing preferences and lifestyles while at home. New home designs will likely include stronger connections to outdoor elements, more creative use of spaces and natural design elements.
Brightening up spaces. Interior designers are morphing ideas to coincide with home owners’ desires and are finding new ways to invite in the outdoors. More homes this year will accentuate natural light in homes through larger or more windows. Maximizing natural light makes homes feel more welcoming, vibrant and can be a wonderful mood booster. Sunny spaces can supply an ample amount of vitamin D for home dwellers.
Enhancing outdoor areas. Fresh air and green spaces, designed to be enjoyed year-round, are at the top of the list for many home owners. “Our clients are asking for outdoor spaces with flexibility,” says Curt Minor of Naturescapes Design LLC. “They want ample space to entertain small groups and a relaxing space for gardening or other outdoor family activities.” He also notes that this trend is popular in both new and existing homes.
Adding quiet zones. With activity buzzing throughout a home, a quiet area to unwind after a long day or simply to unplug from devices and screens is a sought-after feature. Small spaces that serve as a comfortable reading nook, meditation area or cigar or wine room are among the top trends in new homes this year. Simple privacy screens can also help home owners take some time out of their day to relax.
Embracing flexible spaces. New and remodeled homes will often offer at least one home office, often with an option or flex space for an additional, similar area. New home builders are likely to add separate work spaces to the kitchen for virtual school homework, crafting, etc. Forgotten corners in homes will now be embraced to create tucked-away flex areas, such as small desk nooks off a hallway.
Using natural décor. Design finishes and patterns that reflect natural elements are gaining interest among home owners. Patrick Lauber of Harrison Paint Company says, “We anticipate rich earth tones in homes this year to help evoke feelings of warmth and comfort, so we have selected calming shades of blue as our color of the year, reflecting natural elements such as water and the sky.”
Naturescapes Design and Harrison Paint Company are just two of the many members of the BIA that can help you with home design ideas. For a list of professionals and more design trends and tips, contact the BIA at 330-494-5700 or visit our website, biastarkeco.com.
