Emergence of new technologies, pop culture trends, and designs influence our lifestyles whether we admit to it or not. Their impact does not end to aesthetics but, they also bring new to the table; including one’s residential living spaces and home discord needs.
Gitnux’s 2024 Market data report stated that 90% of people prefer to renovate their homes rather than buy a new one. The U.S. home remodeling market also grew to approximately $468 billion in 2020. The pandemic may have been one of the catalysts on people’s increased interest in home improvement. But, NAR’s 2022 Remodeling Impact Report found that 83% of surveyed homeowners already planned to renovate regardless of the pandemic. Respondents listed motivations such as upgrading worn-out surfaces, finishes, and materials (30%), adding features and improving livability (20%), and simply wanting a change (16%).
So, whether you’re a professional interior designer or a DIY enthusiast, keeping up with these innovative trends can inspire and help you on your next home remodeling project. This article examines some of said trends that significantly affected the future of home improvement, providing insight into the exciting possibilities ahead.
Style Trends: Embracing Warmth and Functionality
Home renovation can be pretty overwhelming, especially when you think of the long list of tasks and items to accomplish. To avoid getting lost in the middle of your project, it is always a good idea to settle on the style you want and stay on track with it. Here are some key trends that are reshaping home aesthetics:
- Biophilic design: Biophilic Design is all about bringing the outdoors into the home; think about natural materials like wood, stone and lots of greenery. In following this trend, expect to see green walls, interior gardens, and expansive windows that blur the lines between inside and out.
- Multi-Functionality: As home offices and workspaces, and flexible living arrangements became the norm, a room and furnitures’ functionality was given emphasis in people’s preference. It’s important to create spaces that serve multiple purposes such as convertible rooms, hidden workspaces, and furniture that transforms to meet different needs like a space-save table that can later be folded into a shelf!
- Warm neutrals and earth tones: Cool grays take the backseat to give way to a warm feel, inviting neutrals like beige, terracotta and olive green. These colors create a feeling of comfort and grounding, perfectly complementing the emphasis on natural elements.
Resources like the Johnsonite Color Guide offer a full range of warm neutrals in their “Color Foundation” palette. This includes shades such as ‘Warm Beige’, ‘Clay’ and ‘Canvas’, which provide the foundation for creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
- Pops of color and pattern: While neutrals dominate the basic color palette, don’t be afraid to add pops of color and bold patterns for visual appeal. You can explore accent walls, colorful tile accents, and uniquely patterned furniture to give that ‘pop’ into your living space.
- Recycled and upcycled materials: People have grew more conscious about eco-friendly practices and sustainability. This also made a shift to the market’s preference in their home’s decorative pieces and furnitures. That said, use of reclaimed wood, antiques and recycled materials are in trend. This practice adds character and uniqueness while minimizing environmental impact.
Home Gadgets and Tools: Tech-Smart
In this modern era, home technology cannot be left out when it comes to home improvement, of course. People are mostly interested in technologies that enhance comfort, convenience, and security in their home. Here are some key trends that are changing the way we interact with our living spaces:
- Smart home automation: Just imagine how convenient it is to be able to adjust room temperature before you get home, setting automatic lighting schedules, or monitoring appliances remotely, all from your smartphone. This is now possible with Smart home automation. You can now find smart thermostats, lighting, and appliances in the market that offer this level of convenience and excellent control.
- Touchless technology: Touchless faucets, soap dispensers and even doorbells are gaining a foothold, promoting hygiene and convenience. This is especially beneficial for families with young children or those who are afraid of spreading germs.
Plus, touchless technology brings a sleek, modern aesthetic to your home. Although contactless devices typically cost a little more than traditional devices, the long-term benefits in terms of hygiene often outweigh the initial cost.
- Voice-Activated Assistant: Virtual Assistants such as Alexa and Google Home are becoming popular, allowing hands-free control of various smart home features. Imagine dimming the lights, playing music or setting an alarm with just your voice. This technology is a game changer for busy families, increasing accessibility and ease of use.
- Integrating health and wellness: Home gyms, saunas, steam rooms and even cold plunge pools are gradually being renovated to meet today’s needs and increase in residential health care experience.
Incorporating health and wellness features into your home can be a significant investment. However, the long-term benefits to your family’s health and happiness can be invaluable.
- 3D printing and robotics: Although this technology is relatively new in comparison to the ones mentioned previously, 3D printing and robotics have the potential to revolutionize the construction and design industry. This technology offers personalization, increased efficiency and a glimpse into the future of home improvement.
While some smart devices are relatively affordable, others require a significant initial investment. Carefully evaluate your budget and prioritize features that fit your family’s needs and lifestyle to maximize the value of your investment.
A Home for the Future
As we look towards the future of home improvement, it’s clear that warmth, functionality, and technology are at the forefront. Embracing these trends allows us to create spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also cater to our evolving needs and desires.
Although keeping up and incorporating trends is important, don’t be afraid to seek beyond and explore other possibilities, and let your creativity soar. After all, home remodeling is also about expressing your taste and preferences. Who knows, you might just be the next trendsetters others should keep up with!