What’s driving change for homemakers in 2021? The home now plays a much more important role in daily life and as such, the products with which we furnish our surroundings hold great power. As householders craft new post-pandemic behaviours, the home will need to function in a broader sense, accommodating home working and socialising but also providing a much-needed place of safety.
The gifting industry has also been transformed in the last 12 months, as consumers have recognised the importance of platonic relationships and connections, become more open about their emotions and grappled with the art of showing they care from a distance.
With this in mind, we’ve teamed up with Naomi Pollard at global trend agency TrendBible who shares a preview into the ‘Soulful Sanctuary’ trend, which forms one of four trends published in Trend Bible’s autumn winter 2021/22 Home & Interiors trend book.
Soulful Sanctuary
Driven by a desire to find synergy between body and mind, a continued focus on holistic wellbeing and the home as a sanctuary is driving a trend towards softly sumptuous experiences for autumn winter 2021/22.
The simple but powerful act of being kind to yourself is at the centre of this comforting story and the home becomes a retreat to soothe, calm and rejuvenate. Self-gifting picks up pace amongst consumers who realise that in order to care for others, you must first care for yourself.
Pace is another key driver here as we exit lockdown and return to work and social lives that require more of us. More emphasis is placed on environments, activities and products that help to decelerate life’s hectic pace, from bathing rituals to games that hone our intuition.
Tactility becomes increasingly important as a tool to focus the mind. Product design and materials with tactile features provide soothing sensory stimulation, inducing a feeling of relaxation for householders who are seeking to switch off and recharge.
A softly powerful minimalist trend
Human connection is growing in importance in our acutely digital world and we’re seeing shapes in furniture and accessories evolve to take on human-like forms; to cocoon and envelop, to be softly tactile and to offer refuge in a volatile environment. Consumers seek comfort, indulging in self-soothing rituals. Organic shapes, flowing lines and highly tactile surfaces create a gentle, calming and welcoming atmosphere.
For interiors, adjustable light sources and indirect light are key to foster relaxation, while tactile, textured and 3D wall effects bring a new sense of touch and feel. Textiles are plush and winged sofas and beds enhance comfort and a feeling of security.
Natural ingredients such as algae and seaweed extracts are key for self-care, while balms, oils and gels all foster a sense of soothing indulgence.
For print and pattern, abstract designs are reminiscent of brush strokes or smudged gels and creams. Simplistic, collaged illustrations depict curvy nudes and sensual lines while rounded edges mimic the human form.
Want to read more? Check out the full article in the digital version of Giftguide Directory, which is out now!
