"Cocooning" Phenomena Leads to New Home Trends

by Mary Ann Romans | More from this Blogger

"Cocooning" is a national phenomena, according to an article written for a national real estate magazine. People are more inclined to stay home and surround themselves with all forms of security and comfort. This isn't surprising, given the recent events over the last few years, with terrorist threats, war, issues with travel and a tough economy. When we are home, we can de-stress and shut out the rest of the world. This being close to home in comfort phenomena has sparked some pretty interesting home trends. Let's take a look.

Inside Out

There is a large trend of indoor to outdoor living. People want to be outdoors, but they still want to feel as secure and comfortable as if they are indoors. This has led to the desire for screened in porches with fireplaces, outdoor patios and backyards with fireplaces or fire pits, and three-season porches that are decorated just as any other room in the house. Outdoor rooms are in demand.

Furniture that can be used both indoors and out is another trend. Sunbrella type fabrics grace all sorts of furniture, from living room couches to kitchen banquettes. And instead of the old vinyl on awnings, the new trend is for living canopies made from leaves, such as a vine-covered pergola.

Luxury

Home design that focuses on luxury and comfort has always had a place, but there is even more demand for the little things that make a house into a home. Trends to include such niceties as towel warmers in the bathroom (as featured here), plush fabrics, ample family seating, a boon in electronic entertainment are taking the emphasis off of entertaining and into a focus on the family. The den or family room is back as a place where all of the home's members can gather together in one spot to enjoy family time. Warm lighting is also playing a part in this phenomena of wanting to be safe at home.

Do you cocoon?

Mary Ann Romans writes about everything related to saving money in the Frugal Blog, technology in the Computing Blog, and creating a home in the Home Blog. You can read more of her articles by clicking here.

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Learn more about Mary Ann Romans

Mary Ann Romans is a freelance writer, online content manager, wife and mother of three children. She lives in Pennsylvania in the middle of the woods but close enough to Target and Home Depot.

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