Design Trends with Staying Power
From small-scale improvements to full-scale renovations, Victoria Reczkowski discusses the pandemic-inspired trends that will continue to impact design choices well into 2022 and beyond. Reczkowski is showroom manager at Ferguson, Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery in Mahwah.
Victoria Reczkowski | Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery | Mahwah | 201-252-8730 | Ferguson.com
Meg Fox: What are some of the top features consumers are considering in their homes?
Victoria Reczkowski: Today’s homeowners are looking for products that aid in the health and well-being of their families and lifestyles. As we move into 2022, intuitive and smart lighting solutions, smart keyless locks, touchless faucets, handle-free ovens, knock-open dishwashers and self-cleaning features will continue to appeal to a customer’s sense of well-being. To limit their potential exposure to viruses and bacteria, homeowners can choose from a variety of hands-free fixtures and voice-activated solutions in their kitchen and throughout their home. The best part: They do not have to sacrifice style.
Kohler Purist Suspend Mount Kitchen Faucet
Meg: The outdoor experience is ever important. What are some of the most sought-after amenities?
Victoria: Outdoor living remains popular, especially as homeowners spend more and more time at home. Many people look to create a multifunctional outdoor space that allows for relaxing, work and routine home tasks such as cooking. Of course, the grill remains the centerpiece of many outdoor kitchens. However, we’re also seeing a growing interest in more extravagant additions to outdoor kitchens such as pizza ovens, wine fridges, ice makers, sinks, faucets, side burners, refrigerator drawers and more.
Photo courtesy of Viking outdoor kitchen
Lynx Pizza Oven
Meg: How else has the pandemic influenced consumer focus?
Victoria: We’ve certainly seen a rise in the importance of the home office and what can be done to customize the space. As people continue to work from home in the long-term, we expect customization is a trend that is here to stay. Many new and remodeled home offices are being designed to include “stations” that go beyond the traditional work desk, filing space and bookshelf. Homeowners may dedicate space for their favorite comforts, like a coffee machine or counter-height refrigerator. Who wouldn’t love a cup of coffee or bottle of water nearby during a morning meeting? Homeowners will likely also continue to think more about lighting in their home office to ensure they look their best during video calls.
Photo courtesy of Kichler at Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery
Photo courtesy of Quorra at Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery
Meg: Where else have you seen inspiring changes?
Victoria: Elevating the often-overlooked mudroom is another interesting trend that evolved during the pandemic. Typically thought of only as the place where we remove and store coats and shoes, this space is becoming even more functional. To avoid germs coming into the home, owners are creating inviting spaces — complete with a washer, dryer and utility sink — where they can carefully and safely transition from the outside world to the privacy of their homes.
LG Wash Tower
Meg: How has it impacted increased storage needs?
Victoria: With everyone buying food and beverage items in bulk over the past year, another trend we have been seeing is the incorporation of storage and cabinetry in hidden spaces. Some customers are building islands with storage on the back side and extending the countertop for seating, but still using that footprint for hidden storage. Adding an undercounter refrigerator is another great storage option.
Photo courtesy of Samsung at Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery
Meg: Any advice you can give to consumers on how to navigate supply-chain interruptions and product delays in the kitchen and bath industry when considering a renovation or makeover?
Victoria: Regardless of where you live in the United States, homeowners must be prepared for longer wait times and increased prices. Above all else, they must remain flexible because nearly every single phase of the supply chain has been impacted somewhere along the way by COVID-19.
It may seem difficult to undergo a home project today, but it doesn’t have to be if you approach it with the right mindset and the right partners. There are several options for home products, but you may just need to keep an open mind and be a bit flexible. Know that you are not alone in this and that there are professionals who can help if you have questions or concerns.
Meg: Any other trend predictions for 2022 or beyond?
Victoria: Among the trends we’re excited about at Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery is what we like to call the “Healthy Haven.” Having a healthy home is on everyone’s mind these days, and for good reason. Thankfully, there are many ways to create a cleaner, more hygienic home. Implementing innovative technologies can help you clean faster, cook smarter and rest easier. This is a trend here to stay!
Grand Nostalgia is another fun trend to watch. This Grandmillenial trend is a recapturing of multiple styles — an appreciation for a lost, perhaps misunderstood aesthetic. Above all, it’s a nostalgia for tradition and a simpler time, and an effort to keep that alive.