As we move past the crazy year that was 2020 into, hopefully, a brighter 2021 - we can't help but look back on some of the popular interior design trends from the past year. While there are definitely some that we appreciate, many trends we feel are a bit outdated now and should stay behind. Take a look at some of our thoughts on last year's interior design trends and what to replace them with.
Interior Design Trends to Leave in 2020:
 White Kitchens
White kitchens have had their moment. Minimal kitchens have been all the rage for the last few years, but the minimal plain kitchens should stay back in 2020. Instead of all white everything, I encourage you to try colorful cabinets and a patterned tile backsplash! You get much more visual interest, and it will appear cleaner longer with out so much stark white everywhere.
Noguchi Lamps
If you go on any design website or publication in the last year, you've probably seen at least 20 rooms with the large round Noguchi lamp. Back in 2020, the Noguchi lamp was one of the hot interior design trends for big visual impact without feeling busy. However, it is now 2021 and it's safe to say we've all had enough. Instead of the Noguchi lamp, try beautiful chandeliers instead! You can find some beautiful vintage ones with a lot of character or use something a little more modern. Whatever you choose, please leave the Noguchi lamp in 2020.
Pierre Jeanneret Chairs
Similar to Noguchi lamps, the Pierre Jeanneret chair has graced the pages of nearly every design magazine and Instagram page in the industry. While beautiful, it's becoming a bit tired and overdone. For a similar feel, I recommend a Brazilian mid-century chair like this Sergio Rodrigues on the right. It's got just the right amount of flair to make it a stand out. Yet, it also has that minimal mid century look we all know and love.
The Open Floor Plan
I have never been a fan of open floor plans personally, but if this pandemic has taught me anything, it's that we all need our own designated space. Spending more time at home has shown me that it's just not practical anymore to have one big area for everyone. One person is trying to work out, another is doing work, a third is cooking- it's just too distracting and not functional. I much prefer a classic six NYC apartment layout, complete with staff quarters and separate entrances.
Farmhouse Industrial
While this interior design trend has definitely gained popularity over the last few years, it's passed its prime. Farmhouse industrial homes just lack that special flavor! With everything black and white it all fades together and you lose the special moments in a home. I recommend layering classic styles and pieces for a depth of color and quality that is uniquely yours. Mixing modern with vintage, raw and refined, or floral and edgy will give you the perfect mix.
Gray Rooms
Similar to the farmhouse industrial look, all gray rooms have got to go. The environment you surround yourself in determines how you think and feel and live. You can't live in all gray! I recommend incorporating warm neutrals in multiple shades to still have a subtle feel without feeling gloomy. On the right, we mixed shades of orange and beige to create a warm and layered look that doesn't feel overly bright yet is warm and inviting. You can see more of that room here!
Sisal Rugs
2020 was the year of neutrals, but I am hopeful 2021 starts to bring color back into our lives. Sisal rugs were a very popular choice for living rooms and bedrooms across the country, but they are simply uncomfortable and boring. They won't last as long as you hope, and don't clean as easily as you'd hope. Our recommended swap is an antique Persian rug. These hide a multitude of sins, last forever, and are full of rich color and history.
Recessed Lighting
Lighting is one of the most important factors in interior design, and one of the popular interior design trends in 2020 was recessed lighting. In my opinion, this is a missed opportunity to make a statement! We recommend a layered lighting scheme to make a more warm and balanced space. Take a vintage chandelier, some modern lamps, and a pair of well placed sconces for the perfect layered effect.
TVs over Fireplaces
While it may seem like the obvious solution in a room with a fireplace, putting the TV over the fireplace is one of the top interior design trends I'd like to leave behind. Either incorporate less screen time by skipping or have a separate room dedicated to the TV. Let the fireplace have its own special moment and utilize a mantle for extra styling opportunities!
Whatever 2021 holds, we hope that the new year brings more color and life to our homes. We are currently taking on new clients for Labor Day move in! Contact us here to get the process started. See you next week!
