As the world slowly emerges from the pandemic lockdown, many of us are looking to the future with a renewed feeling of positivity. Working from home, for some, has resulted in a new sense of freedom. Commute times have transformed into more focused and productive working hours, and the increased flexibility has meant more meaningful time with family and loved ones. There’s a general mood of being more centred and grounded as the rush of our busy lives was put on pause. On the flip side we’ve missed our friends, the warm hugs from grandparents, good restaurants and the joys of travel.

The ongoing effects of lockdown are already being felt as we begin to return to some sense of our old lives. People are opting to continue working from home and perhaps begin a working week that involves only a few days in the office.

With more hours at home the need for a comforting and reassuring domestic environment will become even more paramount. This is being reflected right now in the rising use of natural materials such as wood and stone — in particular dark soothing tones of walnut or simple and pared-back expanses of plywood. When it comes to stone, marble continues its reign with fluted texture adding even more interest — and a human touch — to unique surface patterns.

Heidi’s House by Caroline Beresford Design, image Leanna Maione

Curvaceous shapes are in keeping with this desire for comfort too — with everything from bulbous 1970s-inspired sofa silhouettes to rounded, sculptural candles currently finding favour. The need for the familiar can also be seen in colour choices. The return of straight-talking monochrome — toned down with textured surfaces and plenty of soft furnishings — could be interpreted as a collective need for a fresh start. The pleasing symmetry of black and white is uncomplicated. It’s easy. And with much of 2020 a washout on a monumental scale, a little moment of easiness is something we all could use.

Madeline Blanchfield Architect image The Local Project

The Monthly Edit | June | Hit Refresh