When schools and businesses began shuttering in March of 2020, many families found themselves scrambling to accommodate telework and remote learning in the spaces their homes afforded. The continued emphasis on social distancing has impacted home design, as people look to create interior – and exterior – spaces conducive to spending more time at home. Let’s take a look at some of the ways the pandemic is reshaping home design.
by Krystin Krebs Interiors
1. Welcoming foyers and mudrooms
Foyers are seeing a comeback in terms of functionality, as people look for ways to create a physical buffer between the outside world and the inside of their houses. To keep everyone healthy, shoe removal upon entering may no longer be optional, and some may also use a small entryway table as a sanitation area. In addition to disinfecting wipes and hand sanitizer, the foyer may also host a UV-C sanitizer for car keys and phones.
2. More brass, copper, and bronze
Again, we see functional design elements incorporated in homes that help with health and cleanliness. Metals with inherent antimicrobial properties are being included in high-touch areas, such as door handles and drawer and cupboard fixtures. Topping the list is copper, which boasts antiviral and antibacterial properties.
3. Smart home technology
Smart home tech has come a long way since The Clapper helped residents activate their lights with a simple clap of the hand. These days smart home technology is sought after to keep high-touch surfaces sanitized. Touch-free faucets, voice-activated light switches, and smart hubs that control the thermostat and home security are more in-demand than ever.
4. Flexible indoor spaces
Unsurprisingly, people are looking to transform their home interiors now that they’re working and learning from home. While open space plans were popular for a long time, people are currently looking for enclosed spaces that ensure quiet and privacy to work. In fact, HomeLight’s Q3 survey found 76 percent of agents reporting that home remodeling was on the rise in their markets, in direct response to remote schooling and work.
Spare bedrooms are being transformed into functional home offices, and playrooms are being remodeled into virtual learning environments. Finished basement areas hold many possibilities, from additional office or learning space to fully outfitted home gyms. These areas are also being decorated with versatility in mind, with people ditching traditional desks for decorative side tables.
by Krystin Krebs Interiors
5. Emphasis on outdoor spaces
San Diego realtors will tell you – outdoor spaces are in high demand. It’s not enough to live near a park or other green space these days, as these areas are becoming increasingly crowded with people looking to escape the confines of their homes.
Today, people are not only looking for homes with outdoor spaces, but these areas are being used more than ever before. Outdoor kitchens are hot, and patios are perfect for entertaining. In short, people are looking for ways to separate their telework from their home life, in addition to entertaining safely.
The exciting part of the pandemic’s influence on design trends is that many of these trends are rooted in functional design; functional design has staying power. And for that reason, it’s likely that many of these pandemic trends are here to stay.