Big changes for home design in 2022

Some of Chicago’s top-rated interior designers off ered their insight into the latest trends and advice on creating a new look for the home in 2022. Rae Duncan, owner and Creative Director of Rae Duncan Interior Designs, and Jean Atchison of Chicago Luxury Interior Design Firm, Atchison Architectural Interiors, anticipate big changes in how families and businesses envision and use their living environments.

Can you share some interior design trends we can expect to see in 2022?

JEAN ATCHISON: Creating home offices will continue to be a trend in 2022. Whether it’s turning a small, unused space into a work area or dedicating an entire room for an office, how people view work has permanently changed. Another trend we’ll see is scaling back on the great room concept, or one large room for everything. Our clients have come to appreciate some separation when work, school and leisure activities all happen in one large space.

RAE DUNCAN: I expect a lot more color—and crazier colors. Think an incredible magenta with chartreuse. I expect to see more modern design too. I think we have been in transitional hibernation and it’s beginning to dissipate. I expect furniture and lighting to only get better from here. We are seeing more unique fixtures and furniture that we used to see only with high-end designers infiltrating the mainstream. It will push designers and creators to the next level.

Is 2022 a good year to renovate your home?

JA: I think the decision to renovate is a personal decision and if a client is mentally ready to undertake a project, then 2022 will be a good year to renovate. One of the most important things I can do for clients is to manage expectations. If there is a realistic understanding of current supply chain and workforce constraints, then clients should be comfortable moving forward with renovations. And the sooner the renovation is completed, the happier they are with their homes.

RD: Yes, the market has been booming for years. Despite COVID, most of us have landed safely. More people are working from home than ever before. It is a renaissance—and not just for home environments—those commercial spots will have to try even harder to be amazing spaces to lure us out of our cozy homes. The supply chain issues are portrayed worse than they are. We can work around most things. Just have patience with your design team.

If you had to choose one room to renovate, which would give the most bang for the buck?

JA: I would choose the kitchen. It’s a difficult decision to make since it involves a large time and financial commitment. However, it’s the space that probably returns the greatest amount of pleasure because it is one of the most used and hardest-working rooms in the home.

RD: Kitchens, then bathrooms—tried and true. Th e largest portion of value in your home is in these rooms. Home offices have moved up on the list but they haven’t surpassed the value of investing in your bathrooms and kitchens.

What do you say to homeowners who want to keep up with trends but just aren’t comfortable with a particular look?

JA: Helping a client determine their unique interior design style is what I consider my job. I help them understand the nuances of design and what works together. Finding out their lifestyle and aesthetic preferences is what turns a space into a home and furnishing a home should focus on trends that stand the test of time. Our goal is to design classic and timeless spaces infused with a chic modern vibe for fresh and sophisticated interiors.

RD: My personal philosophy is that it’s your home. At the end of the day, what matters is that it’s endlessly enjoyable and stunning to you and your family. I suggest hiring a professional who can reimagine your space and elevate it, while suiting your needs. I’m also a “go big or go home person.” Cabinets and walls can be repainted. There is a lot you can change without making a significant commitment. Do what works for you.