The Changing Home

In 2020, we experienced unprecedented change.  Nearly overnight, we were ordered to shelter in place.  Our children would not return to school in person through the end of the school year and many employers transitioned their employees to work from home.  The pandemic has shifted the way we live, work, and play in our homes. 

With Zoom meetings and e-learning, open concept homes can feel a bit too “open.”  We all got a few laughs from videos of parents making unexpected appearances in their child’s classroom or children interrupting their parent’s work call.  

This sudden change in lifestyle has led to changing trends in home design in existing homes and new construction homes.

Creating a Cozy Living Space

Our surroundings have an incredible influence on our mood and overall well-being. As we began spending all of our time at home, the way our homes “lived” became more important than ever before.  The once over-looked master bedrooms are now being updated to create cozy sanctuaries to retreat to.  We are using natural colors to bring a little bit of nature indoors.  Others are incorporating punches of color to lift the mood.  

The Return of the Home Office

Once a rarely used room in the home, the home office has suddenly made a resurgence.  Offices that had been converted to playrooms and hangout spaces are now being changed back into their original intent.  A dedicated space with doors that can be closed to provide privacy and a sound barrier are in high demand. 

A Space to Vacation at Home

2020 also brought a record number of new pool installations in residences across the US.  With travel and social gathering restrictions in place, people began looking for ways to entertain the family at home.  Swimming pools and outdoor entertainment areas extend our living spaces. The time spent outside provides much needed fresh air and a healthy dose of Vitamin D. 

As devastating as 2020 has been for many, there are blessings to be seen woven throughout the year.  We were forced to stay home, which brought us closer together as families.  Sports and activities were cancelled, but that eased up the busyness that we had grown so accustomed to.  Our priorities refocused on what truly is most important...the health and happiness of our friends, families, and neighbors.  Coincidentally, this year also saw record alcohol sales, but that’s a story for another day!

Photo Credit: LRES Marketing