The pandemic has influenced so many areas of our lives these past few months. It’s not surprising that it’s also affecting the design of our homes! Our homes have served as not only our safe havens; but also offices, classrooms, gyms and entertainment opportunities! It makes sense that the current home design trends are adapting to our new normal just like we are.
Since we are spending most of our time at home, there is more time to devote to sprucing up our outdoor space and even getting a chance to enjoy our front porches and backyards! Front porch sitting and connecting with our neighbors is making a comeback, from a distance of course! People are sprucing up their porches with rocking chairs and outdoor décor now more than ever. Potted plants and new light fixtures are decorating many a front stoop right now. Backyards are getting just as much attention too now that much of our entertainment is of the at-home variety! Homeowners are investing in outdoor furnishings and décor to make their space more cozy and convenient. Hammocks and water features are being added as well as fire pits and twinkly lights to set the tone for entertaining!
Folks are working and learning remotely in unprecedented numbers right now and the need for more space is something we are all feeling! Small closets are being converted to a work space for mom and desks are being stashed in corners so children can have their own learning space. Trying to blend all of these new changes into your current living space can be a challenge. The home office may become as crucial to new home design plans as the kitchen at this rate!
In addition to home offices, finding space to get our exercise on has become important too! Home fitness has been in our lives for decades – but it’s taken on a new role since the pandemic closed gyms around the world. Whether it’s a yoga class on Zoom or making room for a Peleton, many of us are trying to find ways to exercise effectively within four walls. Garages are being converted into home gyms and fitness equipment is being stashed under beds and in the only closets not currently being used as office space!
Since space is at a premium, storage options are extra important right now. After all, we need somewhere to hide our hordes of toilet paper and hand sanitizer! Extra shelving and built in storage areas are definitely trending at the moment as well as new additions with built in functional and multipurpose spaces.
It’s no surprise that we have become incredibly concerned with disinfecting and cleanliness. Our answer…mud rooms!! A space where jackets and shoes can be left so outside germs don’t come in and where cleaning supplies can be stored. Even some folks are adding an extra handing washing station or sanitizer dispenser in their mud rooms.