I've been working as an interior designer for the past 18 years. During my first few years, I worked as a residential designer. Then I became a commercial designer designing for large companies and their specialty spaces. Now I work in both fields and love it! The commercial design world provides me with the opportunity to express my creativity on a much larger scale. While designing a residential project offers a more personal connection with the homeowner, creating a space that enhances their wellbeing.

But whether it be residential or commercial design, I've always needed to know what the upcoming trends were going to be. Why, because the last thing I wanted to do was find myself at the end of a multi-year project with a dated design. After doing my research for the upcoming year, I’m now ready to design for 2021 and beyond. So, let's dive right into the top trends to look out for in 2021!

Trend 1 - Wallpaper as an accent

I know what you’re saying right now. What, the accent wall? That's been around for years. Yes, it has been. In the past, we used a bold paint color on the wall. Then we moved to reclaimed wood. In the last couple of years, we've seen many walls with geometric patterns created with wood trim.

But the upcoming dominating trend for 2021 will be the accent wall covered in wallpaper! Why for a few reasons? Wallpaper has caught up with the times in terms of graphics and technology. The colors are more vibrant, and the paper itself is more substantial with depth and dimension.

But the biggest reason for the wallpaper trend is because it is now peel and stick. Peel and stick wallpaper has caught on like wildfire. Installing wallpaper has never been easier to do. This means more and more people will try it out, especially us DIY-ers. If we don't like it, no big deal because these rolls are reasonably priced, and taking it down is as easy as putting it up.

Trend 2 - Mirrors

Being at home this year meant we had a lot of time to look at what worked in our homes and what didn't. And for those of us living in small spaces, they felt even smaller. So now people are asking how they can make their small spaces feel bigger.

Well in 2021, you'll see a resurgence of people using mirrors to accomplish this task. Why? Because mirrors create the illusion of depth and increase the output of light. If someone can't literally add square footage to their space, this is one of the next best ways to make the space feel bigger.

You'll start to see more floor to ceiling mirrors installed in dining areas, bedrooms, and even kitchens. In addition, you' 'll begin to see large statement mirrors that are meant to accentuate a design element by giving it depth and clarity. As well as big bold framed mirrors used in place of artwork.

Trend 3 - Color

People are craving color. We lived with all-white spaces for so many years that now people are looking to create something dramatically different. Paint easily remedies this issue. Like this home office for instance, blue has become a popular interior color because it evokes a feeling of calm and peace. Which is what people are looking for right now. And look at how the white cabinets and trim pop against the richness of the color. And, the good news is It's just painted, and it can be changed in a few years.

Earthy tones are also going to be big in 2021. People need to feel safe and warm in familiar spaces. That's what colors found in nature do for you. Look at this earthy rust-colored wallpaper. It's an earth tone that evokes warmth and strength, especially in these times. I welcome the warmth and familiarity these colors will bring.

If you have an all-white interior with no plans to make any significant changes, using rich pops of color will help update the space. For example, this large, framed print adds life to an otherwise nondescript room. The bold yellow color is said to be one of the hottest colors of the year. Also, consider changing out toss pillows and introducing an area rug with color. Along with your artwork, these are quick and simple ways to add that pop of color to an otherwise all-white space.

Trend 4 - Dark Kitchen Cabinets

Yes, the all-white kitchen is going bye-bye. But let me say, I love an all-white kitchen. I love the way it makes the space feel light, bright, and clean.

But the trend in 2021 is moving in the opposite direction, which is dark kitchen cabinets. And that's not a bad thing. This has been coming on for a couple of years now. Why, because the dark color cabinets offer natural warmth and livability. Depending on the hardware and appliances, the cabinets can be made to feel luxe or laid-back. And right now, laid-back comfort is king.

Notice the use of mirrors in this kitchen—two hot trends in one space. Dark cabinets meet mirrors! The dark custom cabinets ground the space. The mirrors being used in place of a tile backsplash create more depth making the room feel even more significant. This transitional décor offers the freedom just to be yourself in the space.

Trend 5 - Natural Fibers

These natural fibers like wicker, rattan, jute, and grasscloth are commonly found in the very trendy Bohemian décor. But right now, you can find these elements everywhere, including traditional, coastal, transitional, and contemporary spaces.

The reason why these materials will soar into 2021 is that they introduce an inviting casual style. And right now, causal comfort is what's on-trend. These natural materials can be woven into baskets, furniture, even lighting. They can be used indoors and outdoors making them very versatile. Most of the time, you can add these pieces to your space without breaking the bank.

Trend 6 - Houseplants

Houseplants will play a significant role in home décor in 2021. This trend started in 2020 and will continue to grow in 2021. People are looking to add life back into their interiors. Many plants offer an organic yet sculptural vibe that turns a sterile environment into one filled with life. Houseplants also help clean your home's air, which is an added benefit.

Want to understand your plant personality and how to marry it with your home décor style? Check out my free printable guide TrishTalkz Garden Guide: What Is Your Plant Style? It offers two plant personality test, a look at trendy home décor with houseplants being used to enhance the space, and many ways to care for your houseplants all year long.

Trend 7 - Outdoor Living

Outdoor living became necessary in 2020 but will explode in 2021. In 2020, by the time most people realized that they needed to create an outdoor living space, the stores had been wiped out. But, the need was and is still there. Not only because of the coronavirus, but because the movement for a better mind, body, and spirit has grown. And, many people like myself find that the outdoors gives them peace.

Although I believe the manufacturers and stores will be better prepared to meet the outdoor décor demand in 2021, everyone should remember that last year's latecomers will be first in line this year. So, if you're looking to purchase patio furniture or make changes to your deck and other outdoor living spaces in 2021, I recommend you shop early! Otherwise, you still may not find exactly what you are looking for.

And that's it!

The 7 Top Trends in Home Décor for 2021. If you're looking to make some changes in your space, indoors and out, I hope this helps. But remember, trends are just that, a trend. Design your room with items you love, and it will never go out of style for you.

Please let me know in the comment section below how you feel about the upcoming design trends for 2021. Have you seen other décor trends that we should all be on the lookout for?

For home décor and gardening tips, check me out on YouTube/trishtalkz.

And as always, thanks for stopping by! See you next time, bye!

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Top 7 Interior Design Trends for 2021