7 Home Design Trends for 2011

Many people look to the home and design industries for trends that are to permeate the rest of society. Some are already claiming that 2011 trends will showcase the cautious optimism being felt in many countries about the economy, while others are claiming that 2011 will be a very green year for home and design industries. Regardless, the age of glitz and glam is long gone as design is heading in a simpler direction.

Home Design Trend for 2011 #1: Minimalism

Minimalism is in this year as homes have natural finishes, clean lines, and fewer embellishments. Designers and homeowners are being encouraged to remove unnecessary things in the hopes of creating a cleaner and happier home.

Home Design Trend for 2011 #2: Healthy Homes

Springing from minimalism, the home and design industry is also focusing on the concept of a healthier home. People are demanding low-VOC paints, finishes, and sealants. Furthermore, people are interested in furniture and cabinets made of natural materials.

Home Design Trend for 2011 #3: Urbanism

There has also been an interest in smaller homes and urbanism. With planners and developers combining walkability and density into modern living hot spots, even suburbs are starting to feel like mini cities.

Home Design Trend #4: Green Building

While the rest of the economy has fallen to a global recession, green building has been proven to thrive even during the economy's lowest point. The market and sales value of green building is starting to spread like wildfire and big building companies are jumping in head first. Keep an eye out for anything from conservation practices to homes that produce their own energy.

Home Design Trend #5: Global Awareness Décor

Global décor such as tribal designs and vintage items from the past are set to make a big appearance in this year's home designs. The older it looks the better. Furthermore, geometric shapes and dyed fabrics will bring the rest of the world into our homes.

Home Design Trend #6: Mix without matching.

This year, the home design trend winds are blowing in a direction that encourages mixing without matching. Designers and homeowners will be mixing different pain finishes, cabinets, and even accent pieces.

Home Design Trend #7: Total Customization

Although granite is still in, homeowners are starting to discover more eclectic options which allow them to express themselves. For instance, keep an eye out for countertops that can be inlaid with stones or shells that they collected themselves.

This year is set to be an interesting one for home design as we begin to move away from a culture of excess, into more socially and culturally aware practices.

Sources:

USA Today

Zen Habits

InventorSpot