Decorating & Design
9 Designers Share Their Style Predictions For 2021
Updated on January 11, 2021

The start of a new year brings new decorating moves we can’t wait to try. If you’re anything like us, you’ll be wondering what the next must-haves will be. To find out what looks we’ll suddenly see everywhere in 2021, we reached out to some of our favorite designers for their New Year’s decorating plans and predictions. Scroll down and see what they had to say!

Jenelle Erickson & Stephanie Smith On The Beauty Of Curves
“Look at those curves! We feel architectural arches and curves in furniture design will be a major trend in 2021. We saw this slowly creeping up last year and are sure it’s here to stay. We love this trend because it adds a sense of elegance to any living space”

Catherine Lazure On Tons Of Texture
“Highly textured elements will be increasingly popular in 2021, especially in Scandinavian-inspired interiors. I like to use 3D sculptural wall art for a distinctive focal point, or even shag rugs, which are enjoying a resurgence lately for its luxuriant, organic look and feel. They kick things up a notch when it comes to adding visual weight, depth and interest.”

Mikel Welch On Moody Hues
“I knew I was onto something when Sherwin-Williams announced their 2021 Color Of The Year as Urbane Bronze. One of my biggest design predictions for 2021 is the revival of black and darker hues on walls and decorative finishes. This is right up my alley as I am always a fan of a moody yet tranquil environment!”

Mehnaz Malik On The Future Of Modern Design
“While bright, light and minimalist have been the cornerstones of modern design in recent years (think: gallery white walls punctuated with modern art and angular furniture), there’s a shift towards a softer and more textural palette. It’s no coincidence that we have a greater need for comfort and warmth given the challenging times we’re living in. Light and airy will continue to be themes but with a slightly softer, moodier edge. We’ll see bright white walls being replaced with warmer, creamier tones. Plain walls will be given treatments like panelling, textured wallpaper or Venetian plaster. Fabrics like velvet, linen, bouclé and wool will be favored for their softness and coziness. Colors like ecru, flax, copper, and “greige” will be the dominant neutrals. Vintage (or vintage-inspired) pieces with a rustic patina will be chosen for their character. Think: Scandinavian urban meets Belgian country wrapped in a warm, Italian cashmere blanket.”

Young Huh On Bold Bathrooms
“I think we are going to see glass tile, color and mixed material mosaics make a big comeback in bathroom surfaces. After years of simple white bathrooms, people want these spaces to feel jewel-like and far more interesting. We’re also seeing interesting materials and finishes being added to plumbing fixtures to complete the picture.”

Aly Velji On Feeling The Blues
“All shades of blue are becoming very on-trend. With Benjamin Moore’s Color Of The Year being named Aegean Teal, these tones are a definite highlight. From walls to cabinets and decor accents, 2021 will have you feeling the blues — but in a good way. This color really inspires and creates a mood of calm — something we could all use a little more of these days. When painting walls, think about adding in a design element, like a slat treatment or molding, to create more texture and amplify the hue even more.”

Gillian Segal On Keeping It Natural
“I foresee lots of earthy palettes and textures in 2021! Think: the continuation of plaster and travertines and lots of rattan. Additionally, we will see camels in lieu of gray and lots of deep neutralized hues like olive green and burnt orange. Organic shapes and curves in our furnishings and architecture will continue to gain popularity as well.”

Sarah Atiq On Pretty Pastels
“Bring on the pastels! Breaking away from the dark and moody colors of the past and embracing light and bright is an emerging trend after a challenging year. I love seeing pops of pastel in furniture pieces, bedding and even on walls. Softer hues like pink, green and blue are a welcome change for the New Year.”

Melissa & Sacha Leclair On Detailed Cabinet Doors
“Of all the design trends we’re looking forward to in 2021, one that we are particularly keen to see more of is detailed cabinet doors throughout the home. Incorporating more detailed cabinetry can really add great texture and depth to a space. We recently included these gorgeous slatted oak doors in our ensuite and are so excited to introduce more cabinet details and designs in our clients’ homes this year!”