Thanks to the pandemic and the increased amount of time spent indoors, the standards for a living space evolved in 2021. A growing number of people desired not only more space, but also personalized offices for remote work, serene areas to unwind, and even a spot for homeschooling. In this ever-changing world, 2021 signaled it was time to elevate your sanctuary to the next level.

The Hunt for a New Home During the Great American Move

The pandemic stirred up a housing migration frenzy, with nearly a third of Americans contemplating a relocation. An astonishing 56% of households planned to make a move in 2021, a dramatic upswing from the prior year's numbers. With remote working and schooling becoming the norm, people were packing up and venturing out to new, exciting horizons.

The housing market was feeling the squeeze as there were significantly fewer homes up for grabs than at the same time the year before. If you’re keen for a refresh, embrace some of 2021’s home design trends and incorporate them into your renovations.

Rising Demand for a Work-from-Home Office

The demand for renovating and purchasing new homes skyrocketed due to the rise of remote work. During this time, it was found that the number of jobs that transitioned to remote work permanently increased, causing people to seek out remote work opportunities more frequently. This increased acceptance of remote work caused homeowners to reevaluate their living arrangements and invest in homes that could accommodate their new work lifestyle.

In 2021, many working adults picked up sticks and moved to another state just to work from the comfort of their own abode. And while some might think it's crazy to take a pay cut, 61% of people in a GoodHire survey were willing to work remotely from anywhere, even if it meant a slightly smaller paycheck. But what did this all mean for the world of home design? Let's take a peek inside the 2021 trends that catered to our newfound location-independent lifestyle.

2021 Interior Design Trends for a Work-from-Home Life

As more of us transitione to working from home, we needed our spaces to not only look great but also work for us in new ways. Luckily, there were some amazing 2021 interior design trends that can help us do just that. From multi-functional furniture to clever storage solutions, these ideas will keep your home feeling stylish and efficient, no matter what your workday throws your way in 2021 and beyond.

Designated Office Space & Creative Storage

Creating a space for your home office is crucial for productivity, whether it's a full room or a tiny nook in your living space. And of course, organization is key in a multi-purpose space. So get creative with your storage solutions to help streamline your workday.

If you’re looking to spruce up your living space while maximizing storage, look no further than one of 2021's hottest interior design trends: extended cabinets. Not only do they add a sleek and modern touch to any open-concept living area, but they also provide a dedicated spot for organizing all of your work papers. Imagine having a work-from-home office setup just outside your kitchen with an entire section of cabinets designated for your important documents. Say goodbye to clutter and hello to a chic and functional workspace with this practical and stylish design trend.

For maximum productivity, opt for storage that not only helps divide the space but also adds convenience. With designated cubbies for homeschooling or hobbies and the rest for work-related tasks, you'll be able to stay organized and focused. And if you're sharing the space, it's important to keep the goal consistent — productivity! By sectioning off the area, you'll have a more engaging and productive work-from-home experience.

Built-In Privacy and Noise Solutions

For couples with overlapping work hours, creating a dedicated workspace can be an uphill battle. But worry not, as some of 2021’s interior design hacks can help create much-needed privacy. Check out some trendy options that can help you adjust your workspace and keep those important calls uninterrupted.

Sliding Doors

As people who take productivity seriously, we know how valuable it is to have a dedicated workspace. However, not all of us have the luxury of a separate office door. Luckily, there's a simple solution: sliding doors. Not only do they provide the privacy needed to buckle down, but they also add a touch of style to any room. Plus, with options ranging from rustic to modern, you're sure to find a design that complements your unique style. So if you're in need of a little peace and quiet, consider installing sliding doors and unlock your productivity potential.

Quiet Pods

With the rise of remote work, video chats and calls made their way into our daily routines. But finding a quiet spot for these calls can be a challenge. Some found a solution by getting creative with their home's layout. They turned previously unused spaces, like below the stairs, into dedicated meeting spots. This not only maximizes small spaces but also allows for a change of scenery. Just be sure to set expectations — this spot is perfect for a short conference call, but make sure to return to a more open, natural lighting space afterward.

Smart Home Technology

From streamlining everyday tasks to keeping up with your schedule, there are plenty of ways clever tech innovations can make life easier for those of us who work remotely. With the right tools at your fingertips, you'll be able to boost your productivity, improve your energy efficiency, and feel more in control of your workday, no matter where you happen to be working from. 

Imagine waking up to freshly brewed coffee without lifting a finger. Plus, you can save energy and control your lighting from the comfort of your own bed. And if you really want to take convenience to the next level, there are voice-activated devices that can do everything from managing your grocery list to controlling your thermostat.

Maintenance Sensors

Smart home maintenance sensors are the latest trend in keeping your home in tip-top shape. These handy devices are like the sensors in your car that let you know when something needs fixing but for your home instead. Imagine being able to relax and not worry about hidden issues that may be lurking within your home because your trusty sensor has your back. It's like having your own personal watchdog to keep everything running smoothly. It's no wonder these sensors are gaining traction — they're the ultimate peace of mind for any homeowner.

Smart Faucets

If you find yourself spending more time in your kitchen these days, you're not alone. And while there are plenty of cool kitchen design ideas to keep up with, one trend that's worth considering is smart home technology. Think beyond your standard Alexa and consider a smart faucet or other healthy home features that will make your work-from-home setup so much easier (and fancier). As a home design enthusiast, I can't help but notice the buzz around smart faucets. These innovative faucets not only filter your water but also pour out the perfect amount so you can say goodbye to measuring cups and hello to hassle-free mornings.

Health & Wellness Home Design Trends for 2021

The pandemic sparked a new interest in home design. It's about more than just a nice aesthetic; people looked to make their homes the ultimate sanctuary. With a focus on nature-infused elements and spaces that promote better living, the 2021 home design trends showcase the importance of having a cozy environment that serves as the ultimate escape. Whether it's a revamp of your current home or a new one altogether, it's becoming increasingly clear that our dwellings should inspire us to live our best lives.

Natural Lighting

Light up your workspace with the powerful benefits of natural light. It's no secret that basking in the glow of the sun can do wonders for your health and productivity. And now that more of us are working from home, it's the perfect time to harness the healing power of the great outdoors.

More windows equal more natural light, instantly making your space feel brighter and more welcoming. Layering different lighting fixtures and bulbs gives an extra oomph to your space, and with the power of smart home technology, you can even adjust the brightness or color temperature. Want some Vitamin D but don't want to leave your space? Pop on a screen or purchase a UV light to indulge in the sun's goodness right from your living room.

Less Stuff, More Function

As we delve further into 2021, one of the rising trends in home design was minimalism. It's a refreshing shift towards a clutter-free, simplistic lifestyle. Instead of drowning in excess, people are opting for a new way of living that focuses on ease and accessibility. Gone are the days of accumulating things just for the sake of having them — now, we're all about intentional living. 

Smart home technology has undoubtedly transformed our homes for the better, but let's not forget about the magic of well-designed storage and organization systems. And while we strive for simplicity and efficiency in our living spaces, we must also keep Mother Nature in mind. In fact, one of the most satisfying aspects of a perfectly organized and sustainable home is the sense of doing something good for ourselves and the planet at the same time.

2021 Interior Color & Texture Trends to Inspire Wellness

As we stepped into 2021, the world of home design is buzzing with fresh ideas and exciting trends. The latest on the list was "biophilia," which channels our innate love for nature into our living spaces. Inspired by sandy browns and sage greens, it's all about natural colors and textures that bring a sense of peace and tranquility to our homes. Whether you choose to follow this trend or pick a color based on your mood, there's no shortage of options out there to make your space uniquely yours.

If you’re looking to elevate your home décor, look no further than the beauty of natural textures. From smooth linens to rugged woods and rustic mosaic tiling, these elements bring an effortless elegance to any space. And don't forget the power of greenery — indoor plants infuse freshness and life into any room. To really make a statement, try incorporating an industrial piece for a chic contrast. With this approach, creating a visually stunning and healthy home environment is easy.

2021 Bedroom & Living Room Trends to Create an Escape

As the world continued to face unprecedented challenges, one thing became clear: home is where the heart is. The concept of “nesting” or “cocooning” has taken on a new meaning, as even the most outgoing among us have found solace within the four walls of our homes. No longer just a place to sleep and store our belongings, our homes have become our safe havens, where we can retreat from the uncertainty of the outside world.

The principles of the hygge craze, centered on creating a comfortable feeling of contentment, were still going strong in the world of home interiors that year. Think a cozy corner to meditate or an extra space that serves as a personal escape from the chaos of everyday life. The bedroom trend game is serious, and it’s high time to elevate your sleep sanctuary.

As remote work and home-based hobbies continued to rise in popularity in 2021, more people sought ways to create a calming space within their own homes. Fortunately, this is easily achievable with the help of smart technology and a few key design choices. From automated lighting to soothing paint hues, the possibilities for creating a peaceful retreat are endless. With creativity and a little bit of dedication, anyone can turn their home into a haven of serenity. Working with Pulte Homes can make that process even easier. Discover stunning floor plans and check out Pulte's new home communities today!

For more design tips, local attraction guides, and homeowner lifestyle articles, check out the Pulte Homes blog for inspiration.

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Published 3.7.2021