Hi everyone,
I’m sure you’ll agree that the pandemic shifted design trends into new directions. It increased the importance of having different spaces for various activities and also those that are multi-purpose. The National Kitchen and Bath Association just released its Design Trends study for 2021 last week that discussed everything from the need for larger kitchens to outdoor spaces.
Here are the top 10 design trends from last year I wanted to share with you now based on the report:
Multi-Purpose Spaces
People wanted kitchen layouts that accommodated working from home and schoolwork due to continuing effects of COVID-19. In particular, L-shaped kitchens with large islands were expected to dominate near-term.
Larger Kitchens
Larger kitchens were seen as a important trend since people weren’t going out to eat as much because of the pandemic. They needed to accommodate entire families resulting in larger pantries and increased storage spaces.
Outdoor Spaces
Because of the pandemic, outdoor kitchens gained in popularity. 40% of respondents created brand new outdoor living spaces with kitchens leading the charge.
Changes in Style
Traditional kitchens, a top-three style for years, fell to the tenth most popular while the organic/natural style moved up from ninth place to third. Contemporary and transitional placed first and second for both kitchens and bathrooms.
Shades of White, Blue and Black
Whites and off-whites were still expected to dominate, as mentioned by 47% of respondents, and beige/bones and blues were each cited by at least 25%. For countertops, backsplashes and bathroom vanities, lighter colors were expected to be more popular, with quartz a hot material because of its ease to clean. Check out this black cabinetry that’s also become a hot trend!!
Increased Technology
Of course technology continued to thrive in 2021 with dedicated areas for mobile devices and laptop charging/viewing listed as the most likely element to be implemented. Seamless video communication, emergency power backups and warning systems were among the most popular of the more practical kitchen implementations.
Larger Showers
The most popular layout trend for primary bathrooms was the removal of bathtubs to allow for larger showers (as cited by 60% of respondents).
Bathroom Oasis
Top bathroom innovations include the addition of bidets and/or smart toilets, along with smart temperature controls for floors and showers. Popular universal bathroom features included hand-held shower heads and definitely rain showerheads.
Aging in Place Features
Aging in place shower features were expected to be most popular, with seats in the shower, zero-clearance entries, and stylish grab bars heading the list for older homeowners. One of my favorite details is the curbless shower.
Minimalism
The saying “less is more” held true. My clients hear me say this often. Clean, natural, uncluttered looks in 2021 were becoming desirable with an emphasis on being aesthetically pleasing, sustainable and functional.
If you enjoyed this newsletter, share it or send me an email and let me know! Any suggestions for topics for future newsletters? I would love to hear from everyone!
Warmly,
Arlene
