HOME DESIGN TRENDS AFTER COVID
Due to recent events our lives have been affected in numerous ways both large and small and, even once quarantines are eased of view of “normal” are likely to have shifted. Below are a few of our favourite predictions for how our evolving daily routines including cleaning practices are likely to impact how we design and decorate our homes to be more hygienic in the coming months, if not years!
NATURALLY ANTIMICROBIAL MATERIALS
Rather than having to constantly clean and disinfect everything that we touch there is likely to be an increase in materials that are not only naturally beautiful but also that are naturally antimicrobial. Materials with intrinsic properties to eliminate a broad range of microorganisms such as copper, brass and bronze. We can see these finishes becoming increasingly popular in kitchens, bathrooms and laundries for hardwares, fixtures, handles and door knobs.
HOME OFFICE
Working remotely would have been extremely rare a decade ago and even until recently having a home office would have been regarded as a luxury rather than a necessity, but in a post Covid-19 this could this be set to change? Some predict that once the stay-at-home order relaxes, and with companies catching on to this already growing trend, working from home will become the new normal for many. This would therefore increase the real estate focus on adapt a walk-in-robe, utilising under the stairs, modifying an unused corner or even adding a purpose built office in the near future.
MUDROOMS
The trouble-free ease of simply entering our homes has, over the last few months, turned into a more onerous one. With the easing of restrictions and more people venturing out of their bubble, the resurgence of the mud room, a transitional space where all the mess and germs can be isolated before moving into the warmth and safety of the home. For many, the options of a separate purpose built area is not an option; however there is an increased focus to adapt a clean and organised entryway or combining with the laundry, adding a small dedicated space with a bench seat, storage, hardwearing and easily cleanable materials.
BIDETS
As a result of the toilet paper panic buying in response to Covid lockdowns, the sales of bidet and bidet attachments has soared. The average bidet uses only 1/8 of a gallon of water, whilst the manufacture of a single roll of toilet roll takes roughly 37 gallons, so there is the added sustainability appeal, as an average those with a bidet will use around 80% less toilet paper. When you add to that the hygienic and health benefits this is one design trend that looks set to continue and not just for high end residential, but as an increasingly popular real-estate buzzword.
OUTSIDE IN
The extended lockdown has highlighted the need of nature for our mental, not just physical well being. The effect of our interior areas ultimately has on our moods, our ability to work and our general health is becoming more prevalent than ever. The simple application of greenery and natural light can have a tremendously positive result, reducing stress and to improve the air quality inside our homes. As a result we will likely see a boom in vertical and indoor gardening as well as an increase in demand for homes with private outdoor spaces.
