DESIGN TRENDS FOR 2021

‘Predictions’ feels like a tricky word after the year we have had. But the DESIGN TRENDS must go on! We will be spending this New Year’s Eve at home, obviously, but we will spend it in our fanciest sweat pants, dreaming up the next time we can wear lipstick without having to worry about a mask. *sigh*

Last year we predicted gilded frames, archways, and a return of pastels (all which came true, just sayin’). For 2021, we are predicting warm wood, traditional details, and form meeting function in the most wonderful ways.

Warm wood continues making gains. 

The move away from painted cabinets continues as designers opt for cabinetry that has the look of furniture, adding warmth and texture to the design scheme. Specific woods being favored? Walnut, teak, and oak are showcasing the colors of each wood as part of the design. For a twist? We love the look of combining painted + wood cabinets in a kitchen.

Traditionalism makes a come back.

After 2020, who couldn’t use a little bit of comfort? Let’s time travel back to your grandma’s living room as time tested patterns like florals, Damask and William Morris pop up on wallpaper (YES WALLPAPER) and accent fabrics like bedding and pillows. Wood trim details (like the Modern Foursquare Kitchen) like chair rails and wall paneling give us a traditional feel, but in this modern world we aren’t seeing rooms FULLY decked out in these trends but instead seeing one or two touches that give us the warm fuzzies but don’t overwhelm.

Primitive + minimal is the new farmhouse.

People still LOVE them some farmhouse, but in 2021 we see this trend become more refined and minimal…picture a simple milking stool. Simple, organic shapes and lines combined with natural materials like stone and wood. The fun part? Primitive doesn’t mean old, keep an eye out for these looks coming from contemporary designers.

Shop a few of our current favorites here:

Sculpture as decor.

In contrast to framed artwork, we are expecting more sculptural elements to show up as decor in 2021. Wood, ceramic, and stone pieces as side tables, coffee tables, and wall installations will create interest and a fresh look.

Shop a few of our current favorites here:

Function for the win.

As we stayed home more than we ever have before in 2020, the design of our living spaces was put to the test. Our houses had to accommodate us living, working, and playing all in the same spaces. All this time at home let us reflect on how spaces are used and where function was lacking. We predict that Covid has led to a renewed interest in making each part of our living space work better for the way we live.

Ready to integrate the trends of 2021 into your new space? We work locally with clients in Marquette, MI and virtually with clients nationwide!