Luxury Living Looks Different in 2021 as Design Adapts to New Desires

The year of 2020 was transformative for everyone, as the pandemic made unexpected impacts on life as we know it. It is no surprise that many families are feeling as if they’ve outgrown their current homes. And when the desire for a new home sets in, the dream you have in mind might look a little different than before.

After facing restrictions on the activities we all once enjoyed so freely, our homes have become so much more to us than a place of escape from our daily lives. They have instead become a refuge that brings everything we love about the outside world to our fingertips. From the restructuring of so many workplace environments to transitioning into remote learning with students of all ages, families need their homes to function in a way that serves their lifestyles. Buyers are now in search of residences that are spacious and varied, yet still cozy – with natural elements that bring the fresh-air feel indoors and details that add individuality to each distinct space.

Here is a deeper look into how those new desires have influenced certain aspects of luxury home design in 2021.

1. Architectural Details
In contrast to modern straight lines, preferred architecture has taken a curve, with grand arches and intricate features that give a desired personal touch. Since people are spending more time in their homes, elements that make the space feel more inviting are receiving more attention than before. Buyers are looking for homes with character that reflect their personal style, providing them with a much-needed “homey” feel.

But cozy doesn’t have to mean contained. Many are seeking out homes with extensive outdoor living spaces, taking full advantage of putting each square foot to good use. There has been more interest in bringing outdoor elements inside, blurring the lines of interior and exterior by using natural stone finishes, lots of lush landscaping, and vast windows that let in plenty of sunlight. Inside, tile floors are being laid in more simplistic yet structured patterns, allowing for a cohesive flow between each distinguished space. Increased attention to detail provides more finishing touches, as evidenced by the increase in moldings and trims we are seeing in homes, adding character even to entryways and hallways.

2. Floor Plans
One of the most noticeable changes this past year is the decline in excitement over open floor plans. While spacious open layouts have been in demand for quite a few years, the increased amount of time spent at home has left people desiring more privacy. Formal spaces are not back in demand, but families are beginning to prefer layouts with more focus on each space serving a function.

Many activities that used to be enjoyed outside of the home have been brought indoors, and they need their own separate spaces. Accommodating school-aged children has been a catalyst for change as well. Remote students need designated learning spaces, and with fewer playdates outside the home, keeping them entertained requires more ingenuity. People often request ample room for home gyms as well, along with other recreationally designated areas, such as media or playrooms.

3. Paint Colors
When working from home, a comfortable office is important for a lot of professionals to have a productive workday. Even college-aged children have had to move out of their dorms to continue pursuing their educations from home. These kinds of adjustments have inspired more sense of style in spaces that family members claim as their own.

When it comes to paint, the encompassing gray and white hues we have seen in the past aren’t leaving; instead, they are being confined to shared living spaces. Bedrooms and offices have taken on more expressive appearances, with moody, dark paint colors and shades of deep blues and black tones. Rather than seeing use of accent walls for visual interest, focus has been brought on entire rooms to instill a sense of individuality.  The same trim we are seeing in entryways and halls is being carried into these spaces to polish off each room’s aesthetic.

4. Kitchens
Throughout time, kitchens have often been considered the heart of the home. This is true even more so now, as families are dining out less and cooking more. Kitchen appliances are beginning to shy away from the once-coveted stainless steel. Instead, black stainless is an eye-catcher, as are more modern-leaning white finishes. Cabinetry of natural wood tones has become more popular lately, and it is common to see various different types of wood mixed throughout the home. The same goes for metal details. Fixtures of different elements are found in kitchens and bathrooms, although copper seems to be a favorite finish, tying in terracotta accents.

5. Natural and Nostalgic Decor
As for interior design, that natural yet personalized feel is spilling over into the desired aesthetic. When homeowners envision their new spaces, sustainability has become a recurring theme. Faux plants are being replaced with real flowers, dried or fresh. Houseplants present an environment where people can breathe easily and enjoy a natural feel. Decor made of other natural materials like jute, wicker, and rattan pair nicely with this lush greenery. People are choosing furniture and decor with more intention than before, with quality becoming a priority. But newer doesn’t always mean better. Vintage and antique furniture is also making a comeback. Not only a sustainable option, retro pieces can also provide a nostalgic opportunity of self-expression that is unique to your home.

No matter what luxury living looks like to your family, Tampa Bay has the home for you. Contact me, Jaime Brown of Tampa Homestyles, to begin our search for your perfect slice of paradise.