Seven Accessories You’ll Find in Millennial Homes
Millennials have become the largest generation in the United States. They have the greatest buying power, and soak up the most marketing dollars. But what exactly is millennial interior design like? Sometimes it can be hard to notice trends that have become so entrenched in the market as specifically generational interests. But there are some definite telling signatures of a millennial “look” in today’s market. We’ve rounded up seven classic millennial home decor choices. Some of these have become second nature when thinking about contemporary interiors or the latest trends. But it is important to recognize them together, as something that belongs to a generation right now. Which trends have me missed? Let us know in the comments.
Brass and Natural Finishes
Brass is enjoying a moment in the spotlight right now. Natural finishes are popular too. And not just wood – marble and other stones are getting a lot of love as well. There’s an interest in materials that come from nature, and sometimes an aversion to plastics and synthetics fabrics. Millennials have a different relationship with the environment than baby boomers. Perhaps there is an underlying concern that nature may disappear, and that feeling is reflected in decor.
(Millennial?) Pink and Other Hues
While Millennial Pink might seem like a scam or an advertising trick, there is no doubt that a new palette is in play in interiors these days. Young people, have embraced energetic pinks, soft lavenders, strong teals, and mysterious forest greens.
Brand Name Furniture
Thrifting has transcended trend status. Second-hand shopping is shopping, and clothing brands must deal with the consequences. However, there is still a place for name brands. Lots of the biggest fashion companies have launched furniture brands, and they have become quite popular – Target, Anthropologie, H&M, as well as Louis Vitton. Perhaps that’s due to online shopping exploding, especially for previously unheard of items like sofas.
Antiques
Millennials want furniture that lasts, something they can rely on. They are not interested in replacing furniture every few years. Antiques appeal for these very reasons. They are survivors, already proven to be durable. Also, with some forethought, they can be found on the cheap. And that makes them popular.
Mid-Century Love – Especially Reproductions
A style that seemed to fall out of fashion in the 80’s have returned with a vengeance. Part of it has to do with their visibility on television shows like “Mad Men.” But another reason is that mid-century, just like antiques, is proven stuff and very reliable. Millennials need stuff that works, and lucky for them, mid-century was made by design masters to stand the test of time. And because mid-century was always meant to be a popular, affordable style, there’s been a rise in the sale of reproductions. Finding the same chair at 10% the cost would give anyone pause, especially a generation that has last purchasing power than previous generations. Millennials aren’t ignorant to brands, they just aren’t necessarily loyal.
Lots of Art
This one is simple. Millennials love art and they put it around their house. Some of the art is from their friends. Some of it reflects the saturation of pop culture in the world, like movie posters or prints of iconic pieces. And maybe even a little bit is bought to fill out an interior. However, overwhelmingly most of the art in a millennial’s home is personal. That is how this generation puts their stamp on spaces. They communicate their personality in their art choices.
Plants
Well, it isn’t like plants are anything new. But they have become such a huge cornerstone of decor recently, and it is easy to see why. Millennials are not as likely to live the suburbs, which also means they aren’t likely to have space for a garden. So plants have migrated inside, often filling up blank spaces, lonely corners, and empty window sills. They add so much personality to small spaces, lofts, or repurposed buildings, common in growing urban areas.
