The COVID-19 pandemic has undoubtedly shaped our perceptions of home and what it means to live well. And while there are some pandemic-inspired home design trends that will inevitably fade, there are a few that are proving to be essential to our health, happiness, and well-being. Maximizing our home’s space is also an added plus! Our expert design professionals from the Renaissance Homes Design Studio are sharing four home design features that will extend beyond 2021.
In new construction, the pocket office has saved the school day for many families! Its smaller footprint makes it an ideal spot for distance learning and studying, and its location off or the near the kitchen allows parents to easily supervise their young scholars and keep them on task. Here, it’s all about staying organized and reducing clutter. Cabinets with closing doors, drawers, and cable management will keep the area clean and tidy. Add opportunities for fun or whimsical decor with some open shelving for photos, small plants, or knick-knacks.
Did you know that ‘pool’ was the most popular search term on Zillow in 2020? It’s a total vibe, and we are here for it! With safety and health concerns about travel, many families are looking to create a vacation right at home. Outdoor living spaces are being reconsidered and reimagined with luxe features and creature comforts. Spacious covered patios equipped with built-in fireplaces, heaters, and ceiling fans create outdoor living spaces that can be enjoyed all year long. Grilling kitchens with a pass-through window make al fresco dining seamless, as do built-in outdoor kitchens, pizza ovens, and wet bars.
Designated and separate spaces for relaxation and activity offer an open-air environment for everyone in the family. Areas for the jungle gym, the vegetable garden, and a hammock or water feature create equal opportunities for play and retreat. Psst—we’re talking staycations here, but the outdoor living space can work as an impromptu office. Get some fresh air and sunshine, and let the foliage be your next Zoom background!
As most gyms and community recreation centers have remained closed this past year, people are creating ways to get their sweat on at home. With some planning and ingenuity, underutilized spaces like an extra bedroom, bonus room, den, or loft can be transformed into a place to exercise or get some zen. From an easy mat and free weights setup to a luxury ballet barre studio, designing flex rooms to workout spaces give families a comfortable and safe area to exercise at home.
The laundry room isn’t just for laundry anymore, with more families opting to extend and maximize the space for a variety of functions. A built-in desk that complements or matches storage cabinets can create another work- or school-from-home opportunity. With some creative use of space, it can also serve as a hobby or craft room. And because it’s already a designated wet room of sorts, the laundry room is a logical choice for adding a dog-grooming area! Pet parents are getting creative, with dog and cat beds integrated into the existing cabinetry too. If the laundry room is downstairs, it could also do double duty as a mud room or even drop zone, depending on the floor plan.
More time at home means more home-cooked meals, and pantries are getting a much-deserved second look. Gone are the days of simple, painted wood shelves. Food storage has transitioned to thoughtful and stylish spaces with matching kitchen cabinetry, quartz countertops, and high-end pullout shelving. A colorful accent wall, vibrant wallpaper, or bold light fixture are a few ways to brighten up a pantry and add some personality. We’re also seeing a resurgence in butler’s pantries, which are small spaces off the kitchen with matching or complementary cabinets for storing serving pieces, glassware, table linens, and overflow items like additional tableware and small appliances.
We’re in the business of making your vision of home come to life! Contact us today to discuss your project and to learn about the Renaissance Difference!