Home Design Trends to Expect in 2022

Trends -- they come, they go. Some we love, others we despise. Some trends evolve from one concept into something totally different, and others seem to vanish just when we realize they ever existed.

This time, we've done the research for you and compiled a few concepts that experts in home and interior design expect to emerge in 2022:

1. Freestanding Bathtubs

Some people can't live without their bathtubs. Others simply love how it looks all dressed up with their favorite home decor. Or maybe you can't be bothered with one at all! Regardless, the results are in on this emerging trend!

According to the 2021 U.S. Houzz Bathroom Trends Study, more than half (54%) of the 37% of homeowners who choose to upgrade their tub during a renovation choose freestanding acrylic soaking model.

2. Green

From paint color to bathroom tile, it seems that we will be seeing a lot of green this year! Nearly every major paint brand chose their own shade of green for their 2022 Color of the Year selection. Incorporating green into your home's color scheme could be a great idea this year, although you may want to start slow should it turn into a fast fad. 

3. Bold Colors and Textures

Green isn't the only color trend that'll see some love this year... many experts are predicting that bold and vibrant colors will be utilized throughout the home in wallpapers, paints, furniture, throw pillows and beyond. Many will also be adopting unique textures and fabrics like velvet and damask in their abodes.

4. Flex Rooms

This trend is likely the least surprising as it's more of a continuation of what we've seen this past year. The Flex Room will continue to shine as many are still working (and playing) from home while safety measures for COVID remain the "new normal." If you have the extra space, the Flex Room is always a "win" in our eyes - there are many benefits when allowing the possibility for a study, playroom or hangout spot.

In addition to the Flex Room, many will create dedicated spaces for their new (or improved) hobbies to pursue further - either for income or fun!

5. Sustainability 

Many homeowners are now making a conscious effort to contribute to a more eco-friendly world by purchasing sustainable furniture and decor, or installing tools in their home to better the environment (and their utility bill). From windows to heating systems, many homes will see improvements toward more energy-efficient options. Composting is another idea that has become popular inside the home or backyard!

In home decor, vintage and antiques are back in! Not only can an old-school accent add some flare to your crib, but homeowners are opting to reuse or repurpose items that may have once been considered "trash" to make their homes uniquely their own.

6. Backyard Spaces 

Likely another effect of the pandemic, lots of homeowners will be putting forth more effort to decking out their backyards. Pools are more desirable than ever. Those who are already pool owners may opt to upgrade their spaces with volleyball nets and lavish lounge chairs or re-design the pool area with chic decor and luxury materials. Interestingly enough, smaller-sized pools are becoming increasingly popular as they can be installed in smaller backyards and spaces and are more manageable to maintain.

Those who don't see a pool in their future will likely be spicing up their front porches and backyards to be cozier or more private. We will probably be seeing a lot of "indoor-outdoor" spaces come Spring and Summer of 2022, as many people continue the enjoy the outdoors and hosting small parties from the comforts of their own homes.

Home Design Trends We May See Less of in 2022:

1. Open Floorplans

Believe it or not, experts are predicting that open floorplans will be less desirable in 2022. Construction expert and CEO of Loftera, Zac Houghton, told Insider that, "Many people learned the hard way during the pandemic that perhaps your kitchen, home office, dining area, great room, and living room should not all be the same," he said. "Ultimately, lack of privacy leads to a lack of functionality."

This belief may be catching some traction as people consider ways to make their home less "open" with wall dividers, shelving, panels and more.

2. Gray (Possibly Followed by White and Beige Neutrals)

Readers will likely find this opinion controversial! So many homeowners love their neutral gray or white color schemes, but with the expected adoption of greens and bold colors in many homes this year, homeowners may begin to phase out these "bland" neutrals for something more exciting. Now, that's not to say that whites and grays will ever be off-trend... but perhaps it's time to incorporate some new colors into your home and revitalize your space!

Experts have already seen the ever-popular gray schemes slowly fading out, but it will be interesting to see if this decade-long trend dissipates further this year or continues to be a staple for many homeowners.

3. Open Shelving 

Open shelving like floating and wire shelves have been extremely popular over the last couple of years, but we may see this trend fall-off in 2022. Many homeowners and design critics feel that open shelving looks messy and cluttered. Homeowners may choose more functional upper cabinets or decorative shelving moving forward. Not only are cabinets better suited for storage than open shelving, but they tend to look more organized and cleaner in your home. 

Whether you love or loathe the home design and decor trends experts have predicted for 2022, time can only tell which concepts will gain traction or fade out. Our advice if you're on the market to sell would be to stick with neutral colors and design choices to allow the next homeowners a blank canvas of their own.

We'd love to hear which home design concepts you're looking forward to or have already adopted! Share your photos with us on social @zforzielinski - we can't wait to see what our local homeowners are planning for their beautiful spaces!