One of the Covid-era home decor trends that has increased in popularity is the focus on multifunctional—spaces, furniture, rooms, and items. In fact, many people — homeowners and designers alike — have reconsidered how spaces are designed and what it really means to be “multifunctional.”
Being at home for months on end during pandemic lockdowns allowed many people (especially interior design enthusiasts) to realize how they use each space in their home and the better functions they could be introducing in a single room.
Briana Ellis Hoag, AIA, Founder of Ritual Architecture, shares her perspective: “I think what [has changed] in home design is a more balanced approach to remodeling and expanding to meet your family’s needs,” she says. “Last year it was carving out home offices and home study areas. This year, I think while that is still important, it’s more of a bigger picture consideration of how we can make our homes more of an oasis where we WANT to spend more time there, even if we don’t NEED to as much these days.”
In addition to the idea of multifunctional comes the focus on statement pieces and furniture that serves more than one purpose—especially if you rent or live in a smaller space.
“For those living in smaller spaces, furniture that offers multiple functions is ideal,” shares Katie Simpson, Senior Interior Designer at Mackenzie Collier Interiors. “Quality multifunctional furniture provides versatility as it can adapt to many living situations whether you are downsizing or already have a small floor plan.”
“The pandemic led us to acknowledge the importance of the ‘home’ as a haven,” notes designer Alice Dahbura-Borges. Subsequently, she believes “we will continue to see the demand for versatility in the home where one space can be transformed and molded for different activities: a dining table or kitchen island can double as a desk.”
Interior Designer Ginger Curtis says she anticipates multifunctional spaces to continue rising in popularity in 2024. “As homes become more versatile to accommodate various needs, multifunctional spaces will be on the rise. Think home offices that double as guest rooms or living rooms with built-in storage to keep things tidy and organized.”
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