DESIGN TRENDS FOR 2022

By Linda Leatherdale

 

In a world plagued by so much uncertainty, there is one thing we can still rely on. Our homes have become our sanctuaries…safe havens to retreat to and de-stress with family and friends.

 

The trend of making our homes into our castles, no matter how big or small, continues into 2022. We are transforming spaces into places we dream of: bathrooms with spa like features, floor to ceiling fireplaces to warm us, renovated kitchens with all the bells and whistles, fitness rooms, home offices, and entertainment areas that bring the outdoors in.

 

“It’s all about feeling safe and secure in our surroundings, yet being able to enjoy the finer things in life, and enjoying them in our homes,” says celebrity designer Jackie Glass, owner of Jackie Glass Inc., sought-after media commentator and regular on CityLine TV.

 

Helping to realize these renovation dreams, says Glass, is a “chest of cash, built up in bank accounts after two years of limited spending on dining, travelling or enjoying other perks that have been restricted during the pandemic.”

 

Getting back to nature and embracing sustainability

The “buy it/throw it away” days are fading, with environmentally conscious consumers choosing products that are kinder to Mother Earth. This means we are seeking out eco-friendly products such as quartz surfaces which are food safe, stain resistant, and maintenance free. Quartz manufacturer Cambria, for example, practices safe and environmentally friendly manufacturing with every quartz surface, and celebrates the beauty of nature in every design.

 

Wellness spaces

A growing trend is transforming bathrooms into spa-like settings, where health and wellness can be practiced at home. Soaker tubs, massage tables, and eco-friendly, wall clad showers with no grout to clean are all gaining in popularity, as is adding that touch of timeless class, like a chandelier or high-level finishes. Custom home gyms, with the latest in equipment, like stretching areas and hydrotherapy, are also popular.

 

Letting the outdoors in

Retractable glass doors that open home entertainment areas to the outdoors are popular. Some homeowners are also adding outdoor kitchens and living rooms with hi-tech audio-visual entertainment areas and bunkies that serve as play areas for the kids or backyard retreats for the hobbyist.

 

Making a statement

The wow factor has certainly become vogue in the design world. A sweeping fireplace that spans two storeys or more, like the new Inverness Collection by Cambria quartz, shows off the latest in design and can make a big statement. The same for well-designed kitchens with backsplashes that match the countertop design for a a seamless look, or oversized islands big enough for entertaining while prepping food, and feature elegant waterfall edging.

 

Working nine to five?

Punching the clock is out of touch with today’s reality of working more from our homes. This trend is expected to continue long after the pandemic becomes a distant memory, as employers realize the efficiencies of a technological revolution that allows us to plug into work from almost anywhere. This, in turn, creates a renovation craze to turn that spare bedroom or basement space into the office of your dreams, complete with coffee stations and relaxation areas. Even working from the cottage has become normalized. Just imagine…an office on the dock followed by a cocktail at quitting time!

 

Looking for more?

Add a splash of wallpaper. Mix vintage pieces with nouveau. Add gemstones to your art collections for a zen feel. Celebrate nature inside and out. Spruce up gardens for curb appeal. And take time to hug the kids, family, friends, and even the pets. These days have taught us one thing for sure…life is so precious.

 

Linda Leatherdale, former Money Editor, Sun Media, is a freelance journalist, financial commentator, and Vice President with Cambria Canada.

www.cambriausa.com.

@cambriasurfaces.

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