After a few difficult months where our energy has focused on a longing for the outdoors, our perspectives and needs in many areas have transformed.
Architecture and interior design are unmistakably adapting. They are adjusting to a new concept whose recent gradual development is set to find more traction than ever in 2021. The roles of light, nature and artificial intelligence have become central. This in turn offers an opportunity to create calm liveable homes and to help us get back in tune with life.
Here at The Decorative Surfaces, we take a look at 2021’s standout architecture trends for homes. Mainly in homes where radiant energy prevails through natural materials, simple lines and décors that calm the spirit.
Open spaces overflowing with energy
Greater environmental awareness has brought along with it a push towards more sustainable and ecological architecture. Proof of this comes in the surging trend for more open spaces. This in turn provides inspirational energy that translates into more light, specifically through larger-sized fixtures such as picture windows. This opening-up offers a great canvas for light to shine through. It recalls Gothic design where light was seen as nourishment for the soul.
Passive efficient energy systems. Source: Teisa
Consequently, architectural design is moving to build passive homes. The objective is to improve energy efficiency and the use of natural light, thus contributing to residents’ wellbeing and quality of life.
Natural materials in their pure state
The predisposition to bring outdoor materials inside our homes is an industrial design trend. It arises from the need to be transported to places that enable us to step out of ourselves, at a time where the home has become a type of cordoned, safe and mandatory concentric circle.
Industrial design, opening-plan spaces and high-quality materials. Source: Ana Utrilla
This explains the spotlight on industrial design and the materials it uses. They are enhanced by artisanal touches in flooring and walls, all while enhancing visual appeal. This style contrasts with the minimalist trend seen in interior design. It is the result of a year where our perspective itself has been transformed. We have been able to develop a deeper sense of social and self- awareness.
Diverse high-quality materials imbued with nature and many distinct textures are highly prized in flooring and walls. This can be seen both in terms of colour and structure. Polished concrete, tiling or natural stone ensure a sense of relaxation and peace inside the home. It restores what was seen to be missing: nature.
Comfort and artificial intelligence at the heart of the home
These trends are complemented by a greater demand to temper isolation. This is achieved through automated systems that work on temperature, light and safety. Domotic architecture has seen wide interest due to rising social and environmental awareness.
Kitchens as star attractions.
In this sense, the rooms set to hog the limelight this year—more than any other—will be those where we have learnt to revel in ourselves like never before. Bathrooms and kitchens have become places to convene and live together. They’ve enabled us to explore unique sensations over these difficult months. It is in these spaces that architectural design will see the most trends in 2021. Therefore, we will find materials that evoke nature and provide rooms with a unique elegant sensation. This will return a sense of light-filled energy to the home and open it up to nature, serenity and essential bonds.
