FIVE OF THE BIGGEST INTERIORS TRENDS FOR 2021
The pandemic has affected what we’ll prioritise, appreciate and value most over the next year and beyond; this change in our attitudes to life applies not least to our homes. From this historic year will emerge new ways of living. Here, we predict 2021’s interiors trends to watch…
Japandi
Sleek Japanese design meets Scandinavian aesthetic in this hybrid home decor trend. Embracing escapism and mindful, slow living, it’s about creating a calming, comforting atmosphere with clean lines, minimalism and quality objects which are beautiful and functional, incorporating neutral, earthy colour palettes and soft linens. See also “lagom” – the Swedish term for “just enough”. The Pinterest Predicts 2021 trends forecast notes that searches for “Japandi” are up by 100 per cent year-on-year.
Sustainability
2030 is the deadline for major climate initiatives, including the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. Renewable energy and solar panels may become mainstream. Trend forecasters WGSN predict a rise in “circular systems” in the home, closing the loop on waste. It also foresees a new kind of “energyindependent” or even “energy-positive” home, which generates more energy than it consumes.
Outdoor living
“The past year has seen our outdoor spaces evolve significantly,” says Rona Olds, head of home and furniture at Habitat. 2020 was a year of barbecues and pizza ovens: outside spaces will continue to be important in 2021. “Ontrend finishes include mosaics and bamboo,” she suggests. Philippa Prinsloo, head of home product design at John Lewis, suggests a “Mediterranean” look inspired by the south of France.
Born to be wild
“Birds, bees, butterflies and even badgers will be adorning wildlife and nature-inspired homes in 2021,” predicts Jackie Hoyte, managing director of creative interiors agency Vesta PR. Luxury paint specialists Fenwick & Tilbrook’s spring shades include “Blackbird Egg” blue. Pattern designer Lorna Syson’s woodland murals embody the trend (lornasyson.co.uk).
Electric aqua
Pantone’s dual colours of the year for 2021 are a sickly, supposedly optimistic yellow (“Illuminating”) paired with a dull “Ultimate Grey”. According to Pantone, the combination conveys “strength and hopefulness”. WGSN’s colour of the year 2021 is a bold shade of aquamarine greenish blue, “AI Aqua”, inspired by technology.