Five Home Décor Trends You Will See Everywhere in 2021
Home décor trends change throughout the years and are inspired by a variety of influences, including fashion, design, culture, and—in recent decades—social media. Some motifs are even a response to social shifts and change, something we became acutely aware of in 2020, at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. "We're spending time working, learning, and living all in one space with the lines blurring, so we're seeing a rise in cottagecore design," explains Glenn Gissler, an award-winning Brooklyn-based interior designer and founder of Glenn Gissler Design. "The years prior to the pandemic, in the last two years (at least), we saw a rise in minimalism and hygge." As we shift into uncharted territory in 2021, new trends are to be expected. Here's where our homes are headed, according to our experts.
Related: These Are the Most Popular Home Styles Across America
Dark Trim, Doors, and Ceilings
Betsy Glass, a Charleston-based interior designer and the owner of The Flippin Designer, predicts that dark trim will become the new white. "Dark paint is starting to become a replacement for white and really gives a bold, rich vibe and complements [a space] beautifully!" she says. Expect to see this trend carried out on home exteriors, as well. "Landscaping really pops against a dark finish as the backdrop," she adds.
Big, Multi-Purpose Tables
"In this era of working from home, schooling from home, and well, just being home all the time, a very large table can serve as the new heart of the home," notes Gissler. "If the table is large enough, one end can be devoted to 'work' and 'school,' and the other end can be used for dining." To accommodate this trend further, he recommends adding a few lamps to the work-designated side of the station, to give the area a library feel.
Living Room Upgrades
Since movie theaters are no longer an option for most, there is more of an incentive to invest in upgrading our at-home technology, including larger flat-screen televisions and sound bars. "Given the increased amount of time at home, I think that sofas will also be upgraded too, with oversized L-shapes and modular versions becoming most popular," says Gissler. "To complement the sofas, large-scale coffee tables are poised for a comeback, as well."
Large-Scale Art
"Showing larger works in bold colors and in geometric or abstract patterns not only makes a stronger statement, but also avoids the clutter and chaos presented in gallery style," says Gissler. "In this day and age, feeling chaotic is the last thing we want to experience, especially at home, so investing in a large scale piece of art can bring joy and tranquility."
Tiled Stair Risers
This accent gives main staircases—or even an exterior stairwell—a true moment of impact, notes Glass. "Pick tile that pulls any other main color components in home, such as trim, windows, or cabinetry," she says. "This really brings attention to a simple home with a bold statement."
