How the Pandemic Changed How We Design Our Homes

The pandemic has not only changed how we live our day-to-day lives, but it has changed the inside of our homes. It resulted in many of us spending more time in our homes, making it essential to design for form and function. Being at home helped bring to light what we needed to add to our living spaces to help make day-to-day life easier and more enjoyable, ultimately creating a living area that would suit all of our needs, from working to relaxing. From structural to aesthetic, we’ve put together a list of some critical changes in home design that we see due to the pandemic.

Private Spaces

Open layouts have been trendy for years, but we are now seeing more and more private spaces being created. The pandemic created a need for private rooms for studying, working, or getting cozy on the couch. Having an open layout does now allow you to dedicate certain spaces for specific functions. From designing spaces when building to adding key furniture pieces to separate rooms, having a dedicated area for particular functions has become a key feature in home design.

Home Offices 

Having a dedicated workstation has become a high priority in most homes. Working remotely from the kitchen counter is perfect for a day or two but tends to be uncomfortable in long-term circumstances. Dedicating a corner of a room or an extra room in the home to your home office makes it easy to leave the workday behind and relax. From office decor to desk design, creating a space that allows you to have the space to work will result in a more productive day and get you off the couch. It also allows you to create space for work accessories and even set up an aesthetically pleasing Zoom background. 

Bold Colors

Neutrals have always been popular, but bold colors are great for making a space feel more lively. From colorful kitchens to moody bedrooms, we are starting to see more homes embrace colors and patterns. If committing to a wall color seems too tricky, opt for accent pieces in bold shades to liven up your space. It will add decor as well as color.  

Creative Spare Rooms 

We are seeing more and more spare rooms being used for just about anything. Unused spaces, like basements, are perfect for making a multipurpose room. Turn it into a home gym, guest room, home office, or even a craft room!  

Added Texture

Texture can change the look and feel of a space, making it feel more cozy and warm. We are seeing more textured items being added to rooms to help make the area feel more welcoming and easy to relax. From soft rugs to throw blankets, these soft and textured items will help add a cozy appeal. 

Cozy Outdoor Spaces 

While outdoor spaces have always been appreciated, homeowners are taking more time for themselves to relax. From tables and chairs to adding TVs to covered porches, it helps change the scenery after a long day of work and helps you utilize your outdoor space in nice weather. 

A Place to Unplug 

Being home during a pandemic made it really important to have a space to unplug (alone and with family.) It’s great for kicking back and relaxing with a good book, meditating, and being with your family. It’s full of cozy essentials like throw blankets, pillows, and oversized chairs to curl up in. 

Dinner Spaces 

The pandemic causes more and more people to cook at home together, creating a reason to come together and enjoy meals more often together, all from home. From updating kitchen cabinets to redoing the floors, creating a kitchen space that is functional and inviting is an easy way to make it the ultimate gathering space. Adding in a kitchen island helps create a reason to cook together while adding stylish storage.  

Reach out to start designing your space today.