Design trends in general, much like the fashion industry, are driven by factors mostly out of our control and the home industry is no different. A great example of ‘beyond our control’ would be the pandemic and the driving force behind material shortages in the home building and renovation industries. But the show must go on as they say, and experts have weighed in on the trends for this year.

WHAT’S HOT:

Sustainability tops the list this year! No big surprise there. The use of eco-friendly, natural construction materials- like brick or stone for exteriors- and repurposed natural wood and low maintenance flooring inside the home.

Technology. Although I think we’ve been moving in this direction steadily for years, it has become an even bigger focal point this year as we struggle to keep energy costs down, protect our properties, and ease of use over our appliances and electrical components. A wise investment in many areas.

A Healthy Home. Not that a healthy home shouldn’t have been the goal all along, but the pandemic sure has put a focal point on what can be done to make our abodes safer. Think whole-home air purification systems, tile with Microban block, backup generators, and hurricane-resistant designs.

Multi-functional rooms & furniture. Being referred to in the industry as a ‘swiss army knife’ design, it is referencing spaces that do double duty. For instance, an office may serve as a workout room as well as a desk as a workout bench too. Make use of less space with greater functionality.

Bathrooms get a boost! We all know bathrooms are key in selling a home, but 2022 is seeing a boost in space and elegance when it comes to the ‘throne’ space. No longer small and boring. The bathroom space is getting a great upgrade to a spa-like setting, with soaking tubs, stand-alone showers, double vanities, heated floors, integrated technology, and lots of storage space.

Enhanced Outdoor Spaces. While we in the Beaufort area have always loved our outdoor entertaining space, it has become an even greater asset throughout the pandemic. It is a natural extension of our living space and has served as an outdoor kitchen area as well. Outdoor living space is HOTTER than ever this year! A great addition to your home if you haven’t gotten there yet.

High-Performance Kitchen. Again, the pandemic and closures forced families to be creative with their space and budgets. More at-home meals and space for school and work found family members utilizing kitchen islands for more than just grabbing snacks and eating. Kitchens became the mecca they once were back in the day and families realized they needed more space to accommodate daily living needs. The hottest trend this year for kitchens:  Double islands!

Home Office Space. This is a must and here to stay as more companies navigate the new environment and realize they can effectively manage their business and employees in a remote environment. Not only is practicality and functionality important, but so is aesthetics. Find the space or room in your home that works best for the work you do and transform it to your needs. A healthy workspace always results in more productivity and allows the division between work and family time.

Adding Texture. Faux finishes, wallpaper, herringbone & geometric floors, tactile and soft-to-the-hand fabrics add a subtle dimension to any room and make a sophisticated statement.

WHAT’S NOT:

We really don’t need lengthy explanations for these, so here we go!

• Word Art- say goodbye to the giant letters and words culminating in different rooms.
• Gray paint- everywhere! A definite no-no. Add some color variances for warmth and character.
• Avoid animal prints (think lions, tigers, zebra, etc)
• Corner bathrooms. Neither comfortable, fashionable, or good for resale.
• Placing your television above the fireplace. While you may see it a lot, this drives designers crazy. They recommend placing to the left or right or hidden in a cabinet.
• Oversized clocks. Yes, we’ve seen them on almost every renovation show, but they’ve run their course. Time to look to a new focal point for your room.
• Boring gallery walls. If you choose to do a gallery wall, which are great and very fashionable, add your personality to the wall. There are no hard and fast rules, just make it your own and add some flair.
• Bare white walls. Never leave white walls bare. You need to do some type of decorating, even minimalist to add some personality and color to brighten the space.

Now you’re ready to go and get your home ready for 2022, or you may be ready to find a home that better suits your needs. If searching for a home that better suits your needs is a must for this year, let’s chat and get you a better living situation for the new year. You can start your search right here or call me for a personal consultation.