Design Trends rarely surprise me. I almost “never” follow design trends. I use the word “never” because oftentimes when a trend hits the market, it is everywhere! It is on every shelf, in every store, plastered all over movie screens, and seen on your favorite design shows. Manufacturers go wild embracing the ‘new” trend or a “twist” on an old trend. The trend seemingly becomes the new cash-cow.
Sometimes a design trend is short and there are times a design trend is very long- ten years long. The more classic and simpler a look is, the longer it will hang around. I am not opposed to gravitating towards a new trend if I LOVE the trend and can see myself married to that trend for an extended period of time – (like years).
Design trends rarely surprise me, but these new design styles in 2021 are surprising – even for this designer. I think you just might be surprised too!
Grandmillennial Style
One of the newest styles on the block is the Grandmillennial Style. What is this style exactly? Well, it is a cross between your Grannie’s house with floral wallpaper, floral bedding, antique silverware, and teacups, and a splash of modern décor or furniture from the millennial generation- thus, the name Grand-Millennial.
This style has been creeping up on us for the last few years and the eagle has finally landed. It is most prevalent with the 20’s to late 30’s age group. The millennial generation is mixing the old with the new. It is a throwback to an era of nostalgia and comfort with a modern twist that is nothing short of uniquely surprising.
Just when you thought that needlepoint pillowcases, doilies, mix-match china, chintz fabrics, and skirting on tables were passe, it is now back in style with a wink and a nod. Antique furniture is in style, but a modern sofa is totally acceptable too. This style is extremely eclectic and very forgiving.
But can Grandmillennial look too busy and cluttered? Well, I suppose the answer is yes, but this is a style for those who want it all- individuality and the comfort that comes from the memories of visiting grandma’s house.
Here are 10 characteristics of Gandmilllennial:
- Mix floral patterns anywhere: wallpaper, bedding, and drapery
- Environmentally conscious: anything recycled or hand me down
- Handmade items: quilts, crochet, knit, lace, embroidery, patchwork, doilies
- Ornate lampshades
- Ruffle bed or table skirting
- Antiques of any kind
- Vintage china, teapots, cups, and silverware
- Colorful walls
- Drapery: lace, paisley, or gingham
- Real wood furniture, rocking chair or settee, beds, and tables
Japandi Style
I love to travel and there is nothing more interesting and relaxing than the design aesthetic of true Asian culture. Japandi is a new style that marries both Japanese cultural style with the simplistic and modern culture of Scandinavia; Japan and Scandi equal Japandi. Both of these styles are yin and yang to one another in some respects.
While the Japanese style and Nordic styles are both simplistic, airy, and intentional in function and décor, the richer color tones of the Japanese style, balance out the lighter color wood tones and pastel colors of the Scandinavian style. This fusion of geometric shapes and contrasting colors are design elements that make this style interesting.
So, how does this style marry furniture? Well, it is a beautiful mix of contrasting furniture lines, too. The Scandinavians are known for their clean-lines, light wood tones, comfort, and practicality in their furniture; while the Japanese are known for curves, richer color tones, and more refined furniture. The furniture is usually high quality, lower to the earth and usually made of eco-friendly materials. A match made in heaven. Both styles love bringing the outdoors inside with a variety of living plants.
Here are 10 characteristics of Japandi:
- Clean lines
- Add simple plants
- Use natural materials
- Use lighter woods
- Neutral colors
- Mix Japanese rich darker tones with Scandinavian neutral tones
- Select furniture lower to the ground
- Add a couple of statement pieces like lighting
- Bespoke or quality furniture
- Patterns and geometric shapes are acceptable
