The Covid-19 pandemic has brought changes to every aspect of our lives, even where we live. More adults work from home, more children are homeschooling, and dining and entertainment have shifted outdoors. Home designs are adapting to this new normal. Watch for these trends.
Productive space at home
Home designs are shifting to create productive workspaces for each member of the family. For example, a niche or alcove may provide sufficient space for a home office, and the “cloffice” incorporates a small workspace within an existing closet. School spaces may be carved out of secondary bedrooms so that each child can work undistracted by siblings. Adding lighting, electric sockets and digital ports to these spaces will make Zoom or Google conference calls more manageable.
Shopping from home
The pandemic has led many to shop primarily online. The corresponding increase in package deliveries has led to a rise in thefts from porches. Designers are now making it easier to keep deliveries safe, with front porch lockboxes and even alcoves accessible only to delivery drivers and the homeowner.
Home cooking that rivals the restaurants
Restrictions on dining out have led many homeowners to upgrade their kitchen spaces. More extensive counters and roomier serving areas are increasingly being seen in home design.
Get your workout in
Gyms and fitness centers were under strict lockdowns in 2020, so sales of home fitness machines such as Peloton and workout mirrors rose. As a result, some homeowners may now prefer a home workout space over a home theater.
Relaxing staycations
Travel restrictions have inspired many Americans to invest in improved backyard spaces: outdoor kitchens, patios, decks, game courts, pools and more. In addition, outdoor space designs incorporating refrigerators, sinks, and even outdoor bathrooms mean guests need never enter the house.
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