Lockdown has changed the way people view their homes and as a result we have had more residential enquiries than ever before. Having spent so much time at home over the last few months, what do people want for their living spaces now?
As Covid-19 is still very much part of our lives, many of us have had time to consider our homes in detail and focus on what’s important. Pinterest has seen a record level of engagement with the number of boards created increasing by 52% as people seek interior inspiration amid the pandemic. ‘Home’ has taken on a new significance, and over the last few months we’ve seen a shift in priorities within residential design. Space, comfort and functionality are now the main drivers.
SPACE
Clients want to create more space by reorganising and extending. Gardens are part of the solution as people look to create an extension of their indoor space and connect with nature in stressful times. There may also be an increase in people moving to more rural locations or investing in holiday homes in the UK to make the most of outdoor space that may not be readily available in big cities.
Flexible living is now key. As many are spending more time at home during the day, we’re seeing the need for multifunctional spaces to facilitate both living and working. Whilst there are many advantages to open plan living such as light and ease of movement, use of glazed partitions or pocket doors to contain some of the space are now essential.
Health and wellbeing facilities have also taken on a new importance as clients look to include gyms and swimming pools within their homes to ensure there is also space for exercising.
COMFORT
Homes have become our safe havens amid the pandemic and as we are becoming more acclimatised to spending time inside, it’s never been more important to ensure living spaces provide comfort to aid wellbeing and relaxation.
Our kitchens are probably where we spend most time with family and usually form the hub of the home. Large kitchens can be combined with an outdoor terrace or garden access as people look to enjoy new ways to dine and relax. There’s also been a big increase in the demand for high quality outdoor furniture to ensure the outdoor space is just as comfortable and homely as the interior.
Less than a week into lockdown, Houzz said searches were spiking for ‘meditation rooms’ and ‘yoga rooms’. Separate living rooms with dedicated space for different activities – a playroom or gym space – add to the variety and can help everyone feel more comfortable too. Toys and paints don’t always have to be put away at the end of the day, and it’s nice to be able to practice that new yoga pose with just the mirror for company
FUNCTIONALITY
Home working has become the new normal and with companies such as Twitter allowing their workforce to continue working from home permanently, many large companies are likely to follow suit. Working from home is easier in a designated area to keep some separation, both physically and mentally. A home office doesn’t need to be large, but it does need full office functionality with well-designed furniture and privacy for video calls and meetings.
Home hygiene is key through the use of antimicrobial and easy to clean surfaces. Many fabric and wallcovering companies are introducing new products to reduce the transmission of viruses and bacteria. Sensor-operated taps and toilets are gaining in popularity too, and we may see the introduction of concealed sanitising stations at entry points or in cloakrooms.
Whilst living through the Covid-19 pandemic, every area of our home has come under scrutiny. People have seen what does and doesn’t work, and are keen to make their living spaces more functional and flexible for the future.
