As the pandemic increased the amount of time spent at home, consumer renovation interests shifted accordingly — homeowners dreamt of bright kitchens and desired expanding their available living space to the outdoors. Added comfort was also a must, as consumers updated their bathrooms to provide a spa-like feel, according to a Houzz Top Design Trend Predictions survey.
The full list of trends, compiled from a community of over 65 million homeowners and more than 2.7 million design professionals, also touches on sustainability and efficiency within the home. Here are some of the top trends you can expect to see this year:
Multiple Window Banks
With the rise of hardworking pantry walls, storage optimized island bases and lower cabinets, Houzz anticipates homeowners will prefer expansive runs of windows in 2022. One way to deliver a brighter kitchen space is with plenty of windows that stream in natural light. Long banks of multiple windows, sometimes on two or even three walls create a space full of light, breeze and views.
A Casual, Collected Look
Layered kitchen looks are also gaining in popularity. A dressed-up, collected style caught on last year, which will continue into 2022 albeit in a more casual, less-polished approach with softer, lighter paint colors, raw wood tones and a mix of cabinet fronts and styles. This layered design keeps the eye moving, creates visual texture and nuance, and appears put together in a relaxed way.
Long and Linear Backsplash Tile
White subway tile is a classic look for a kitchen backsplash, but many homeowners are searching for a modern twist on the material, according to Houzz. White ceramic 4-by-12-inch tile appears to be the answer. The rectangle shape lends a timeless feel while its elongated form gives it a fresh, updated appearance. Backsplashes with a subtle wavy or crackle glaze finish will add texture.
Hardworking Storage
While the general function of cabinetry hasn’t changed much over the years, the inside of cabinets has dramatically shifted, according to Houzz. Pullouts bring pantry items from the back of cabinets to the front. Special shelves lift heavy appliances from a lower cabinet to countertop height. Drawer dividers organize plates and bowls. You can now have designated storage space for a paper towel roll, aluminum foil or baking sheets in the kitchen. In the bathroom, a drawer can house a blow dryer or other device next to an in-drawer outlet.
Multiple Shower Heads and Sprays
A comfortable shower is an important bathroom feature, but including multiple shower heads and sprays can elevate a shower experience from simple washing to luxurious pampering. More than half (55 percent) of homeowners who update their shower during a bathroom renovation choose a rain shower head, almost a quarter (23 percent) go for dual shower heads and 16 percent add body sprays, according to the 2021 U.S. Houzz Bathroom Trends Study. In addition to multiple shower heads, Houzz bathroom design pros recommend installing a handheld sprayer.
Desirable Sustainability and Efficiency
Sustainable building practices have long been a focus of environmentalists, but recent shifts in the global dialogue have brought the benefits for individual homeowners to the forefront, according to Houzz. High-performance windows and solar panels help reduce energy use, which can save money. Native trees and grasses can also create water-efficient landscapes, and attract pleasing wildlife.
Outdoor Privacy
As homeowners increasingly expand their available living space to the outdoors, many are hiring landscape pros for screens, fences, plantings and other strategies that help create intimate spaces and separation from neighbors, or block an undesirable view. This might look like a vine-covered pergola, an outdoor screen around a private dining spot, or fencing for an outdoor shower or hot tub. Standalone structures are also used as home offices, gyms, meditation areas or as extended living spaces to house relatives or older children.
