Photo: Elad Gonen
This coming year and, for that matter, the next few coming years, will be very different from those preceding the COVID-19 pandemic in many aspects. Life has changed, and daily activities such as getting around, shopping, banking, and working will be done differently, for as far as the eye can see. The impact of the virus strangely (or maybe not) will also be seen in the way we live at home. Needless to say, the way we live in our homes is a direct result of the way we plan and decorate our homes.
According to interior designer Annette Frommer, “since everyone is traveling much less these days and working from home a lot more, people are investing above and beyond in feeling good at home – what is known as ‘home wellness.’ People are also spending time, money, and energy in making their home a real retreat, which is not only beautiful but also functional, in order to meet the new requirements for life during a pandemic”.
Pantone’s color for 2022 is Very Peri Blue. According to Beatrice Eiseman, Pantone Color Institute’s executive director, it is time to incorporate “the trusted and beloved blue color family.” As she continues to note, Very Peri “displays a sprightly, joyous attitude and dynamic presence.” We all crave lots of joyfulness right now, don’t we?
Frommer concurs and notes that “blue is not only a vibrant color, but it also symbolizes trust and serenity, something we all yearn for these days. Blue is versatile, it easily works with other colors, and I believe that interior designers will be using the color in 2022 as an accent color – one which provides soothing comfort in throw pillows, carpets, bedding, and more”.
The past year has highlighted the unacceptable way we treat mother earth, and she, unfortunately, has countered with a vengeance. We have all seen global-scale natural disasters, such as floods, fires, droughts, etc., strike with all their might.
As a result, Frommer believes that there will be a greater appreciation for what is green and natural, or in her words: “we will see trees, plants and flowers on a much larger scale in the home, as well as other biophilic elements, such as green walls and ponds in terraces and gardens.” It is a well-known fact that greenery contributes to a wonderful sense of wellbeing; it reduces stress and enhances creativity.
A Gorgeous Green Wall That Brings Nature Into The Home
Photo: Oded Smadar
In 2022, homes will have to be way more hybrid. This means that homes will be used for relaxing but also for work. Many will continue to work from home. The design of a home, thus, will have to be both beautiful and practical. Kitchens will increasingly become multi-functional, and kitchen islands will continue to be popular since they not only add a touch of sophistication but also provide extra sitting space alongside more storage room. More importantly, however, they contribute to an informal atmosphere that is congenial and fun, where friends or family can sit around the island to eat, play, study, and also work!
As Frommer sums it up: “I believe that interior designers will plan and design with a lot more resolve and tenacity, as we continue to spend a lot more time in the house.”
