- The COVID-19 pandemic has substantially influenced home design, emphasizing workspaces due to the surge in remote work.
- Increased indoor time has fostered a stronger connection with nature, reflected in home decor and natural lighting features.
- The “Feels Like Home” trend and decluttering practices aim to create inviting, simple, and serene living spaces.
- Hygiene became a key focus, encouraging the use of touchless fixtures, antibacterial materials, and dedicated sanitization areas.
- Key home areas requiring upgrades for the new normal include the garage, kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom.
Since the outbreak of COVID-19, many of us have spent significantly more time at home. With the government-imposed lockdowns and social distancing requirements, our homes have become our sanctuary. The pandemic has changed how people look at their homes and what people expect from them. It transforms how people create living spaces, the features and amenities they crave, and prioritize home décor.
Homes After The Pandemic
The pandemic has subsided, but it has affected how people live in their homes forever. Here are some ways the pandemic affects how people live in their homes.
1. The Rise of Work-from-home Spaces
One of the most significant changes in home design since the pandemic started is the emphasis on workspaces. With more and more people working from home, having a dedicated area for work has become crucial. Many homeowners have transformed their guest rooms, dining areas, and living rooms into functional workspaces with comfortable chairs, desks, and storage units to accommodate their work needs.
2. A Growing Relationship with Nature
Since more people have been spending more time indoors, there is a growing appreciation for the outdoors. Studies have shown that people who spend time in nature have lower stress levels, improved mood, and better brain function. To bring the outdoors in, homeowners have started using plants and natural materials to add a touch of nature to their homes. Many have also brought in bigger windows and skylights to give them a better view of the outdoors and to enjoy more natural light throughout the day.
3. The “Feels Like Home” Trend
With the pandemic forcing many homes to function as more than just living spaces, homeowners have sought to create comfortable and welcoming spaces. The “Feels Like Home” trend uses warm colors, natural light, and comfortable textiles to create a cozy ambiance. Homeowners have also added functional, versatile pieces like storage ottomans and sectional sofas that can double as guest beds when necessary.
4. Decluttering and Simplifying
The pandemic has made many people evaluate their priorities and values. As a result, there is a growing trend towards decluttering and simplifying. Homeowners have begun to prioritize using functional, long-lasting, and timeless items while donating or throwing away excess clutter. Rooms are now designed with fewer decorations and natural lighting to give a sense of space, serenity, and calmness.
5. A New Focus on Hygiene
The pandemic has made people more conscious of how to keep their homes safe and clean. Homeowners have started installing touchless faucets, using anti-bacterial paints, and have sometimes incorporated space for sanitation stations. Homes now have transition spaces at entry points for sanitization to avoid introducing germs.
Areas in Your Homes That Need Upgrades
Lastly, some areas in your homes need upgrades in a post-pandemic world. Here are four of those areas:
The Garage
Space is crucial for a post-pandemic world, as people are shifting towards working from home and e-commerce. Your garage is the ideal space to transform into an extra room or workspace for your family’s needs. You can install wall organizers or overhead racks to make the most of the area and maximize storage capacity. Additionally, consider replacing your garage door. This can give your home an instant facelift and improved security. A local garage door replacement service can do this for you. They have the equipment and professional team to ensure the job is done correctly.
The Kitchen
The kitchen is the heart of the home. You can improve it with better flooring, countertops, and smart appliances to make cooking easier. Smart refrigerators can keep track of food expiration dates and even show recipe suggestions based on what you have in your fridge. With smart appliances, you can also remotely monitor the temperature and humidity of your food.
The Bathroom
Your bathroom is another area in need of an upgrade. Replacing outdated fixtures and taps with modern ones is a great start. You can add heated floors for a more comfortable shower or bath experience. Add a separate shower and bath area for more flexibility if space permits.
The Bedroom
The bedroom is crucial for relaxation and rejuvenation after a long day. Ensure your bed has the right mattress and bedding to ensure maximum comfort. You can even install blackout curtains or shades to reduce noise and light when it’s time to sleep. Add some aromatherapy diffusers or a sound machine to create a calming atmosphere for better restful nights.
The pandemic has changed how people live in their homes forever. With the right updates and improvements, you can turn your home into a safe and comfortable sanctuary for you and your family. Take the time to evaluate what areas of your home need an upgrade to ensure you create a space that suits your needs and lifestyle.