Decorating & Design
December 29, 2020
Ready For A Change? Try These Design Swaps In 2021!
If you feel like switching things up in the new year, we’ve got some decorating alternatives for you. It’s easy to feel like you got stuck in a rut in 2020 (I mean, who hasn’t?), but look on the bright side: the pandemic has allowed us to take stock of what is still bringing us joy at home, and what requires a refresh. Scroll down to discover the design trends we’re loving for 2021!
If you like… Oversized Florals
In this Calgary showhome, a dark floral Ellie Cashman wallpaper in the dining room had visitors buzzing. Sandwiching the wallpaper between box moulding on the ceiling and panelling elevates it to the level of art, and gives guests seated at the table the impression they are dining in a midnight garden.
Try: A Mod Botanical
Incorporating calming cool tones in the bedroom is an easy way to encourage a soothing night’s sleep. Designer Anne Hepfer swathed this statement wall in a cartoon-like botanical print by Hermès, which is layered with soft greens, rich blues and subtle pops of orange.
If you like… Structured Sofas
The sunshine yellow sofa was the starting point in this living room by designer Emily Griffin, which capitalizes on rich, jewel-like hues.
Try: A Slouchy Perch
A vintage Togo sofa by Michel Ducaroy brings soul to this sunset-hued family home. The perfect pairing for an amber-colored sofa? Handmade baskets, artisanal pottery and natural wood accents.
If you like…. Palm Prints
Sparked by the famous Martinique wallpaper in the Beverly Hills Hotel, palm prints have been exploding on walls for quite some time. Don’t get us wrong: the jungle vibe is transportive, but we’re ready for something quieter that’s closer to home.
Try: A Monochromatic Mural
Cue this monochromatic landscape mural that feels like a window to the lush countryside. Neutral tones are livable and sophisticated in this dining room, and the mural helps gloss over awkward angles.
If you like… Counter Seating
Stools are a convenient way to squeeze out more seating around a hardworking island, but there is a way to grab breakfast in a more leisurely, comfortable way.
Try: A Banquette
The breakfast nook is being revived for its cozy, communal vibe that encourages interaction. In this 230-year-old home in Charleston, South Carolina, a charming, traditional nook lined with buffalo plaid upholstery and a window seat banquette invites the family to slow down and connect.
If you like… Sunset Shades
Comforting, warm sorbet shades of pale pink, burnt orange and mustard dominated 2020.
Try: Soothing Sage
This hot hue riffs on the outdoor feeling just as well as a picturesque sunset. Benjamin Moore’s Cushing Green (HC-125) offers a fresh spin on trendy mid-tone woods and hearkens back to the muddied palette made popular by mid-century modern design.
If You like… Bathroom Stools
We’re big fans of stools (especially ones that mimic ceramic garden drums) because they inject a touch of warmth and eliminate the need for grappling when it’s time to add the bath salts.
Try: A Niche
Sure, it requires more of a commitment, but a built-in solution — like this tub-side bathroom niche — offers a clean way to free up floor space and keep essentials (even a glass of wine) within reach when soaking the stress away.
If you like… Rows Of Pendants
We’ve gotten used to orderly, repetitive rows of lighting over islands as a well-loved way to illuminate island surfaces.
Try: A Slender Singleton
This two-armed pendant stretching the length of an island still provides plenty of task lighting without obstructing the view of the gorgeous zelige glazed tiles.
If you like… Navy Cabinets
This dark blue hue has been the color of choice for those who want to switch up their white cabinetry. It’s traditional and handsome, and looks lovely with brass accents.
Try: Gutsy Green
Green is another heritage color, but is a more unexpected, fresher alternative than navy. We love the way it serves as a dynamic backdrop for dramatic marble backsplashes, and it’s the perfect partner for wood flooring.
If you like… Chunky Marble Counters
Along with the white Shaker-style cabinets seen here, a substantial marble or composite counter is classic and homespun.
Try: A Dark Synthetic Counter
If you’re ready for something a little less rustic, a swirling porcelain stone countertop with a slim profile creates a sleeker look, and the tone accents black fixtures. (Plus, it’s forgiving and make glass rings less noticeable.)