New year, new trends

The relationship we have with our home has changed significantly over the past 12 months. With 2020 officially behind us, New Homes spoke to an interior design expert to get their take on what we can expect to see more of throughout the year ahead.

Homes that made an impact and showcased a sense of personality were what Weststyle Interior Designer Courtney Doyle hoped to see more of throughout 2021.

“Clients are opting for bold, impactful colour palettes,” she said.

“Mixing timber features with deep, rich cabinetry finishes and a variety of mixed metals to create serene spaces grounded in nature.

“We are also using a mixture of textural finishes where ultra matte, smooth finishes are contrasted against textured timber cabinetry finishes.”

To allow these settings to shine, Ms Doyle said it was important to maximise natural light with large-scale windows and/or skylights, while the pandemic had showed the importance of segregated zones in residential homes.

“Open-plan living may be a thing of the past,” she said. “We are seeing clients lean towards floor plans with separate living spaces that allow for multi-generational living and greater flexibility.”

Further to this, Ms Doyle said it was likely homebuilders would give greater design attention to spaces such as the home office and private outdoor living settings.

“As working from home is the new normal for many people, I think home offices will be designed with more seclusion and focus in mind,” she said. “Private enough to function as an efficient home office, yet connected to the home to facilitate a versatile family office and study space.”

As for outdoor living areas, Ms Doyle said the pandemic had shown the value of having a dedicated space to relax outdoors.

“I think clients will be looking to create more luxurious outdoor spaces that act as a retreat from everyday living whilst being versatile enough to entertain friends and family,” she said.

One thing Ms Doyle said would continue, and perhaps even grow, was the focus on using sustainable materials.

“Although sustainability has become increasingly important in recent years, I think there will be an even greater focus this year and for many years to come,” she said.

Ms Doyle said fast furnishings were starting to lose their appeal, as more people became aware of the ecological implications of their design decisions.

“Our clients are opting to choose timeless, high-quality furnishings with greater emphasis on locally sourced materials,” she said. “Whilst the appreciation for European design remains, we have seen a shift in focus towards locally made furniture pieces, as well as bespoke built-in furniture.

“I also believe there will be a greater focus on the use of natural and organic materials to bring a sense of warmth and comfort into homes and strengthen the connection between home and nature.”

CONTACT Weststyle, 9345 1565, www.weststyle.com.au