ince the onset of the pandemic, home designs that were once considered a luxury have now become the norm. In fact, experts predict that the home decor market will rise to $348.3 billion by 2027, due to the pandemic. Given that consumers are spending more time in their homes, here are some key design trends that are booming in Indian real estate. What’s interesting to note is that not all of them are luxury-based, several place greater importance on aspects like natural light and environmental impact.

Digital/technology integration

It’s no surprise that technology integration is everywhere. Even in the real estate industry, home automation is being rapidly sought after, with consumers seeking more convenience and knowledge at their fingertips. New homes are seeing automated video door bells, remote-controlled curtains, and even automated temperature settings and lighting controls. Security and safety are also being looked at with high-priority using technology – like the integration of gas-leak alarms, access to state-of-the-art security systems, and smartphone home monitoring. Within smart homes, there is demand for digital sensors to monitor aspects like occupancy, air quality, and natural light levels. In common areas of buildings, residents are requesting for LED lights, sensor-based street lights, and touchless doors. Moving Beyond Everyday Luxury While pools and jogging tracks have always been luxury amenities – today, consumers are looking for temperature-controlled pools, property-wide high speed Wi-Fi, state-of-the-art spas, and even personalized rooftop decks. Other luxury requests include home theatres with a complete entertainment room, co-working spaces instead of a business centre, private Jacuzzis, convenience stores, and fire-pits.

Lavish interiors and exteriors like walk-in wardrobes with ample storage, full-fledged designer bars, big balconies, and private terrace gardens have been emerging over the past few years. Personal infinity pools are now being requested for to ensure consumers can enjoy a swim in the privacy of their apartment/residence.

The industry is also witnessing a rising interest in ornate lights, wall art, and colourful cushions among other decor. More people are opting for bold wall colours, contrast in rooms, and a blend of contemporary with classic.

And, for entertainment, apart from sports facilities and gymnasiums, features like virtual game simulators, concierge services, and lobbies catering to a maximum of 1-2 units per floor are being requested for.

Sustainable Living Consumers are also more environmentally conscious and have started prioritizing softer aspects like energy utilization, impact on the environment, and more green spaces, as opposed to hard factors like price. Green building certifications, renewable energy sources, and rainwater harvesting are now non-negotiable asks.

Homebuyers are looking for green facilities like ground water recharge, STP provision, solar power, and responsible waste management. Home gardens and incorporation of nature within living spaces are also becoming key asks as consumers are on the lookout for lush greenery and ample open spaces. Seasonal Homes There is an emerging focus on who people want to spend time with and where they want to spend time. We are seeing more interest in community integration, which gives consumers the choice of where and with whom they live, the ability to see loved ones more often, and the opportunity to work in the community, in order to develop new hobbies and participate in communal living. It’s also interesting to see holiday homes gain traction, as consumers seek living spaces in natural settings to enjoy ‘staycations’ or ‘workcations’ depending on the season. Multi-Use Spaces Lastly, remote work is here to stay, and apartment homeowners are looking for multi-use spaces that can be converted into study rooms or home offices for both adults and children to use. We’ve also witnessed a growing preference towards decor additions like balcony swings, open plans, and floor-to-ceiling windows in all rooms for better light, ventilation, and views.