In the midst of challenging pandemic times, we’re expecting a lot from our homes. We need multifunctional spaces that allow us to focus, get creative, entertain, and relax. Design trends for 2022 will continue to seek to create a peaceful retreat.
Seeing as we’re spending more and more time at home, improving our homes is appealing to all and achievable regardless of scale or budget.
A pop of retro
Capitalise on the declutter trend and raid local op shops and local buy/sell pages for treasures in need of a new life. There’s a strong movement away from mass-produced, fast fashion fads.
Hunt for unique items that splash character and colour in a room. Retro accessories in bold shapes and colours, as well as glass and quirky ceramics create visual appeal and make a great talking point.
Also look out for classic wood furniture with sleek lines. Furniture design from the mid-1900’s favoured simplicity and functionality – which is certainly back in vogue. Quality items that are useful and built to last a lifetime.
It might take a little patience, consistent hunting, and an open mind to spot pieces that work well with your home. The secret is to blend the old with the new and exercise a little restraint on what you add. Focus on quality and comfort – items that have already stood the test of time.
Natural elements and earthy colours
Maximise natural lighting and connect the indoors and out with plants, organic colours, textiles and natural materials.
Principles of biophilic design are based on our innate love of nature and a need to connect with it to bring tranquility into our lives. Snake plants, monstera, lilies and ferns are ever popular choices indoors. If you’re a novice, start out with the ones that are hardy and less fussy to care for.
Consciously sustainable
We’ve never been more aware of the impact our choices have on the planet. Along with most of the world, the New Zealand Government is actively planning ways to achieve its climate change goals, including net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. Using renewable energy sources and recycling materials are both essential parts of this equation.
Marley Twist® compact rainwater diverter, is a good example – it’s made from 100% recyclable materials and is designed to help households reduce overall use of mains water. It is easily connected to an existing downpipe system, diverting rainwater to a storage facility such as a tank or barrel for watering the garden, washing the car or running water features. Depending on the rainfall, Twist® can capture up to 300 litres of water per hour and can be turned off to resume normal downpipe flow.
Likewise the Marley Curve® leaf and debris diverter is also made from 100% recyclable material; it’s a diverter that can be added onto downpipes to protect tanks and stormwater systems from leaves and debris. As well as improving the quality of water going into tanks, it reduces the amount of debris entering the stormwater system and ultimately reduces problems of blocked and overflowing sewers.
Both Curve® and Twist® are available in the full colour range from the Marley Stratus Design Series® to ensure they blend seamlessly into the downpipe system.
Sherwin Williams Colour of the Year – Evergreen Fog
Pegged as a versatile and calming hue which gives a subtle but sophisticated wash of organic colour, Evergreen Fog fits well with design trends for 2022 and will coordinate with many different design styles. It pairs well with neutrals and earthy tones – perhaps as an accent colour rather than for an entire room or house.
In a continuing trend, natural materials and colours also feature strongly in exterior design. The warmth of timber boards and slats offer a sharp geometric look whilst fitting in with their surroundings.
Versatile spaces
The importance of home office space has boomed, along with creating hybrid spaces which are multifunctional and work for the whole family.
Look for products that are not only beautiful but also offer great storage and versatility in their use.
Clever methods of room division can also help you make the most of your space.
So, although we may not know what is around the corner for us (or the world), we can certainly take control of our home spaces. We hope you feel inspired to breathe some freshness into your own sanctuary or perhaps take a few steps on your own sustainability journey.
