In 2020, we all saw a dramatic shift in our way of life. We began to embrace new strategies for making the most of each day—which often included optimizing our living spaces.

Now that we’re well into the new year, many homeowners are getting serious about revisiting their home aesthetic and new interior design trends. One of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to do that is by delving into trends that can make a home comfier and more beautiful.

If you’re ready for a refresh, here are five interior design trends to try out in the months ahead:

1) Pantone’s colours of the year

Looking for hues that inspire? Pantone is the authority. For 2021, the company has announced not one but two colours of the year. The first, Ultimate Grey, is a timeless shade that connotes strength and durability. The Pantone website likens it to “pebbles on a beach,” highlighting the fact that it’s neutral enough to work in most spaces.

If you’re looking to totally revamp a colour scheme, try pairing Ultimate Grey with Illuminating (the other colour of the year). This warm, optimistic yellow provides an instant mood boost at a time when many of us are feeling a little cooped up. So long, greige!

2) Room dividers

For families and those living with roommates, sharing close quarters was a theme in 2020—and that hasn’t changed quite yet. With pandemic restrictions still in place, many Torontonians could use a little more privacy in their open-concept homes. That’s where partitions come into play.

There are plenty of ways to divide a room, and one of the most stylish is with a wall made of wooden slats. Nordic light woods and mid-century modern styles can provide a minimal, ever-so-slightly vintage feel. Looking for a freestanding option? Try an iconic Japanese separator that features translucent sheets on a lattice frame.

3) Spa-like bathrooms

At a time when you’re doing pretty much everything at home, don’t lose sight of the fact that your day should still include rest and relaxation. Luckily, you don’t have to spend a fortune to create a calming, at-home oasis. Instead, consider focusing on the master bathroom and adding a few small-but-impactful accessories.

One of the go-to items right now is an elegant bamboo bathtub tray, which can hold a book, your phone, a glass of wine, or whatever else you need while you soak. If you’re more of a shower person, installing a rainfall showerhead can make starting the day a truly luxurious experience.

4) Large floor tiles

Whether it’s in your foyer, kitchen, or bathroom, the right tiling can add a bit of polish to a room. Right now, large-format tile is having a moment, and it’s easy to see why. These porcelain slabs can provide a more modern look—and make your space feel bigger.

Another option is to make a different kind of statement with a unique shape. Diamond and hexagon tiles add an element of boldness, while vintage patterns can provide nostalgia and a hint of drama (especially when they’re in black and white).

5) Living walls

Looking for new ways to bring the outside indoors? Many homeowners have begun livening things up by creating “living walls.” Essentially, these are vertical gardens—and they’re as beautiful as any painting or print.

Typically, modular panels containing growing media (usually loose soil) are packed with vibrant vegetation. They’re then affixed vertically to a wall, creating a natural tapestry that can range from a few square feet in size to much larger. As a bonus, these unique features can even help purify the air!

Looking for the perfect home to furnish and decorate? Take the first step by finding a local real estate agent who’s the right match!