2020 is well and truly behind us and, as we all look forward to better times ahead, why not refresh your home for a brighter, better 2021?
There’s plenty of inspiration to be had, from shows like Interior Design Masters currently on the BBC to beautiful home accounts on Instagram and magazines featuring predictions and insights from high-profile designers and trend experts.
We’ve had a scout around and found a few of the biggest trends to look out for in 2021.
Sage advice
While 2020 was all about dark blue and copper - and this certainly isn’t going anywhere! - sage green is the new choice for kitchens this year. Whether used in cabinetry, paint or tiles, this subtle hue is restful and organic, reflecting the growing demand for nature and bringing the outdoors in. It works with natural wood or industrial metal, and pairs well with other trending colours like butter yellow and blush pink.
Pots of style
A quick and easy way to transform a space is to invest in a statement vase. With bold, unusual shapes, punchy primary colours and unusual textures, this season's decorative vases don't even need flowers to make a statement on a cabinet, mantelpiece or tabletop.
#cottagecore
The rollercoaster ride that was 2020 has resulted in a yearning for nostalgia and comfort - leading to the soaring popularity of Cottagecore. One of the Instagram trends of 2020, Cottagecore brought us images of fairtyale cottages, garden tables laden with flowers and homemade scones, billowing cotton dresses and scrambling roses, and that focus on escapism, laid-back living and rural romance doesn’t look like it’s going anywhere in 2021.
To get the look, pair muted floral fabrics with pretty ginghams and checks, throw a soft sheepskin over the sofa or on a wooden floor, and choose vintage print wallpaper and pastel shades for walls.
A space that works
With so many people working from home, we’ve had to rethink our workspaces – whether that’s an entire room or a dedicated corner. Designers predict statement walls with well-styled bookshelves, picture galleries or thoughtfully placed ornaments will surge as we consider the backgrounds for all those Zoom calls. And adding a bright colour, loud rug or fun ornament into a home office can bring in some of the personality and cheer you’re missing from your fellow workers.
A growing trend
Houseplants have never been more fashionable as people spending long periods indoors look to reconnect with nature and bring the outdoors in. Indoor plants not only look beautiful, but they also have great health benefits, both physically and mentally - freshening the air, filtering out pollutants and releasing oxygen. Opt for succulents or ferns if you want something that is both striking to look at and easy to look after.
