The Covid-19 pandemic has impacted all aspects of our lives, including the way we communicate and work, not to mention how we entertain ourselves and connect with our loved ones. Spending time in our homes for small gatherings has been one of the very few pleasures we could enjoy, and for those lucky enough to enjoy an outdoor space at home, it’s very likely that you’ll be keener on finding new ways to upgrade your terrace in the new year.

“With social distancing rules still in place and people becoming more health-conscious, eating at home is the new normal that a lot of our customers are proactively taking advantage of the unrealised potential in their balconies, terraces and rooftop,” says Chin. 

Whether you choose to have some greenery to make it more welcoming or splurge on some chic furniture pieces to create a beautiful setting for intimate gatherings, a small move can make a big difference in enhancing the overall feel of your home.

See also: Outdoor Furniture and Accessories To Update Your Terrace

While vibrant patterns and bright colours will continue to be popular with homeowners who desire to add personality and warmth to their spaces, the use of earthy tones, organic materials and comfy textiles is going to dominate the year, according to Chin. “After a chaotic 2020, we’ll see more calming neutral colour palettes and pieces featuring soft edges, natural materials such as wood, stone and woven fabrics—all the elements that conjure a restful spirit and a feeling of serenity."

Creating clean and well-defined spaces is also a key practice when it comes to minimalist home designs. Once you’ve discarded the pieces that no longer serve you, go the extra mile and pick your favourite furniture pieces to get in on the trend. This move will not only make your home feel lighter, but also put you in a good mood swiftly.  

“2021 will bring a consciousness of how we conceive private spaces by giving them more flexibility,” according to the designers from Wimberly Interiors. “Furniture that adapts to different situations with extra functionality to accommodate luxury, comfort and purpose, such as a chair that doubles for dining and working will be a growing trend, as we are all rethinking how we use our spaces for working, exercising, socialising and relaxing in these times of self-isolation.”

Not sure where to begin? We recommend opting for flexible wall storage systems that keeps personal belongings or work equipment out of sight, while displaying cherished décor pieces as a statement feature. A versatile sofa bed that can provide a comfortable spot to answer calls, or handle other work-related tasks that don’t require a desk, while offering a bed for visiting guests, is also a great multi-functional furniture choice. 

If there’s one thing we’ve learned over the last year during the pandemic, it’s that our physical and mental health take priority. With at-home wellness continuing to be a major trend in 2021, which is made evident from the increasing demand for meditation apps and online fitness classes, homeowners will be looking for exercise equipment fit seamlessly into the interiors, and inspirations on how to connect their abodes with nature. 

“We’re all yearning to spend more time outside. Bringing the outdoors in with greenery is not a new idea, but with a growing desire to feel calm and improve well-being, the home décor trend is going to be bigger than ever and not going anywhere soon,” according to the designers from Wimberly Interiors. Looking beautiful and pleasant, houseplants will not make your living space feel more welcoming, but also provide you with plenty of health benefits. They can help purify the air, improve your mood and even increase your productivity. 

See also: How To Build A Meditation Space At Home: Meditation Trainers, Singing Bowls & More

As many continue to spend increased hours at home, the role of the artwork, textured and natural materials, and botanical wall coverings will become more significant—especially in spaces that have prolonged hours of use—according to the designers from Wimberly Interiors. 

Adding new statement artworks and antiques can bring life to the house easily, which is also a satisfying way to explore and upgrade your décor without having to make permanent commitments like painting or wallpapering. Instead of trying to copy the look that you see from those interior design magazines, select pieces you love to reflect your personal style and taste. 

See also: Home Tour: This Nature-Inspired Abode Brings The Outdoors In