Happy New Year! With a new year comes new home design trends. As your North Shore real estate agent, I’m here to fill you in on the trends that design experts predict will get big in 2021. This is helpful if you want to renovate your home soon, or if you want to sell.
As a North Shore home seller, knowing what trends buyers are seeking can be helpful when updating or staging before a sale. However, it’s important to remember that not all buyers think alike, and that sometimes trends don’t take off when expected. Consult with a home designer or real estate agent before updating your home for a sale!
1. Separated kitchen space, or ‘two-for-one’ kitchens. Homeowners are finding that open floor plans around the kitchen show off their clutter, dirty dishes, etc. They are starting to lean more toward layered kitchens, where the prep part of the kitchen is more closed off by a door or wall, and the living or show part of the kitchen remains part of the open floor plan.
2. Outdoor upgrades. Outdoor space has seen upgrades like never before! After spending so much time at home, homeowners are seeking more time in their own private outdoor oasis. This time of year, heating elements are huge, like fire pits, hot tubs and patio heaters. Homeowners are also adding more lighting elements and sitting areas. Some go all out with outdoor kitchens, gazebos, lifestyle sheds and more.
3. Warm palettes and design materials. Grays are on the way out. Homeowners are seeking warmer, cleaner and brighter tones, along with softer, more plush materials. We want to be comfortable at home! This could include a variety of whites layered with natural wood finishes, or neutrals with soft green or blush undertones, or even bright turquoise or light citrus green. Velvet is coming back as well.
4. Grand staircases. Foyers and grand entryways took the main stage for the past few years, but now grand staircases are making a comeback. Buyers are seeking grand staircases in size, shape and first impressions. If you have a staircase, you could up its game with new treads, risers and handrails.
5. New suburbia. With so many city dwellers moving to the suburbs in 2020, it’s causing suburbs to up their game. Many of these homeowners are still seeking walkability and nearby entertainment. Expect more parks and pop-up developments with restaurants, shops, etc.
6. Resilient landscaping. Homeowners love their gardens and landscaping, but they want landscaping that is less time-consuming and more resilient to extreme temperatures. Think about this when planning your gardens for this year! Native plants are popular, as they grow better with less work.
It’s always fun to see what trends are emerging and how long they last. Which of these would you like to see in your current or future North Shore home?
If you have real estate goals you’d like to accomplish this year in Glencoe, Winnetka, Highland Park, Deerfield, Northbrook, Lake Forest, Wilmette, Evanston, Glenview, Riverwoods, Bannockburn, or other North Shore communities, give me a call, your North Shore real estate agent! I am always here and ready to help you achieve your goals.
Janie Bress
Your North Shore Real Estate Expert
North Shore Real Estate
View North Shore Listings
Visit My Website
Local Expert… with National Connections!