Picture: Unsplash
Multipurpose spaces
Over the past year, we have had to adapt to functional living and create spaces in our homes for classrooms, gyms and offices. There is no doubt that 2021 will see more thought given to people’s spaces and their immediate environment. Think about adding:
Baskets for storage in varying shapes and sizes to keep a room multi-functional and organised
A big dining room table is a must - even if you have a home office, with multiple people trying to work at home, this allows you to work in peace
The Revival of 'Granny Chic'
The “Grandmillennial" trend is an ode to the old school. It sees the modern revival of décor that you may find in your grandparents homes and evokes feelings of comfort, nostalgia and tradition. Quilts are an age-old craft that dates back centuries and have evolved adding colour, pattern and personality to a bedroom.
To accentuate the designs of a contemporary quilt, repeat the shapes and patterns, such as squares, rectangles or circles with other pieces of furniture, scatter cushions, accessories, mirrors or rugs in the room.
For a sense of nostalgia connect the quilt with your unique style and personality by adding keepsakes, sculptures, artwork or pottery from your life, travels or dream destinations
Combine a floral print on a sofa with modern pieces and accessories.
Colour Trends
We are spending more time in our homes so choosing a liveable colour palette is important.
Pantone recently announced two colours as their shades of the year: Illuminating (a zingy yellow) and Ultimate Grey. Descibed as a practical and solid combination that is also warm and optimistic giving us resilience and hope for the year ahead.
Dulux’s Colour of the Year 2021, Brave Ground is comforting and grounding and can be paired with a variety of colour options.
There will be a trend for pops of bright and warm colours such as mulberry tones, warm reds combined with patterns and prints that evoke happiness and cheerfulness
Green is the new grey as it has a restorative quality. Look out for Sage Green that will make a strong appearance in 2021.
Ocean blues, from deep inky tones through to soft aquas and teals are the perfect colours to create a tranquil and peaceful home
Ethical design
Sustainability is a buzz word and there is a huge focus on products that will last longer and not harm the environment. With this growing awareness, there will be a demand for more natural and recycled textiles.
100% cotton linen is a pure, natural, breathable material and will keep you cool in summer and warm in winter
Cotton is naturally hypoallergenic, so has limited association with any allergies - there really is no better feeling than getting into a bed with fresh, clean, cotton sheets!
Although cotton linen can be an investment it is believed to last almost twice as long as cheaper man-made alternatives, so you won’t need to replace it as frequently
Bringing nature indoors
All things related to gardening will see a huge comeback, together with new ways to incorporate greeneries inside homes. In addition, vertical gardens and indoor gardening will have a boom.
Expect to see aspirational images with natural elements and celebrations of the natural world brought into interiors. Incorporating florals into your home décor is an easy way to celebrate nature.
Natural wood furniture and accessories will help bring the outside in such as a pedestal, simple stool, mirrors or even picture frames.
Beautiful faux botanicals such as faux orchids, hydrangeas and proteas are the perfect solutions for busy households, as they require little upkeep, maintenance and are Waterwise.
Mindfulness and Wellness
The principles of wellness start with our own personal spaces and there are simple ways to use home decor to inspire mindfulness in everyday life. By creating quiet places and peaceful sanctuaries throughout your home you can be fully engaged and present in the moment.
A beautiful spa-at-home bathroom is the ultimate space to unwind after a long day and luxurious towels, candles and fragrances will make the space more inviting
Use every little nook and cranny in your house to create different ‘zones’ – for reading, relaxing or simply retreating - a comfortable chair is a non-negotiable and a simple lamp will help to define the space
Go Local
There is massive support for local, homegrown businesses at the moment and this growing trend will see a revival and recommitment to much-loved South African home décor brands.
Seek out local brands that are proudly South African and have a nod to heritage in everything they do - this includes choosing brands that manufacture items locally and support local communities
An easy way to incorporate ‘local’ into your home décor is to choose fabrics, upholstery and scatter cushions that showcase iconic African prints, illustrations or symbols, and dot these throughout your home
