As we try and create a sense of home in new places, services are emerging to offer rentable capsule wardrobes in far-flung cities, or welcome beloved pets into even the most luxurious accommodations. Personal touches are key, from loungewear and linens that remind us of home, to tech that allows us to get our lighting, music, sleep, and workspaces just the way we like them.

Homes are becoming more personal spaces as we embrace optimism, escapism, and celebration. Traditional ideas of what’s “tasteful” or “normal” are rejected in favour of texture, colour, wit, and whimsy.

Consumers no longer want perfectly coordinated home or matching furniture sets, as they look to combine unique and meaningful items with family heirlooms, thrift finds, crafted pieces, and fun seasonal accessories.

Social media has played a key role in this shift, as influencers showcase how they evolve their homes, experimenting with colour and texture, or sharing ways to creatively upcycle furniture and accessories.

The digital eye of Instagram and TikTok as well as remote-working platforms like Zoom and Teams -   has made us more aware of how our home looks to the outside world, creating self-consciousness while enabling bolder design choices. As younger consumers decorate their first homes, they are considering how their rooms look on social media. This inspires a balance of affordable, basic pieces with eye-catching art, soft furnishings, paint colours, and wallpapers.