Expert Interview: 2021 Interior Design with Shelby Greene of Living Spaces

Interior design evolves every year, with new trends dominating the looks of our apartments and complementing our lifestyles. While some interior design trends are timeless, some come and go. We wanted to see what’s going to be hot this year, so we took it to the experts to share some insight with us.

We talked to Shelby Greene, interior designer with Living Spaces, and asked her a few questions about working in interior design, as well as what her take is on the design and color trends of 2021. Thank you, Shelby, for your answers!

Can you tell us a bit about your background, why you chose interior design, and what is a style you enjoy working with?

I’ve always had an eye for visual design and styling. I attended FIDM and studied a broad major, Visual Communications. After experimenting with a job in home staging, I discovered that is exactly what I wanted to focus my creativity on. I’ve always loved redecorating and renovating my home to match the different seasons and trends. Moving across the country from everything I have known encouraged me to create an inspiring and comfortable home for myself that I enjoyed being surrounded by every day. I love working with a vintage eclectic style because there are no rules. It’s all about charm and unique combinations that work together cohesively. Every piece is a story and work of art of its own, which makes the entire space a reflection of yourself.

Which décor trends and focus pieces do you think will dominate 2021?

2021 is the time to go big. Instead of minimalism, we are seeing a resurgence of maximalism. Statement furniture pieces with bold colors or textures will be popular this year, as well as bold print wallpaper or bright walls and large art pieces or accessories.

What do you think will be the color trends of 2021?

Any pastel or soft color will be big this year. Sage green has already begun to dominate 2021. Baby pink is having a comeback, as well as lilac purple and sky blue. These trendy colors are not only soothing and elegant but also great for mixing and matching with both neutral and other pastel hues.

What interior design style do you think fits best in a rental apartment?

I think modern design is the most versatile. These days, apartments and residential buildings have been modernized to be simple and attractive to everybody. Clean lines and simple architecture make it easy to minimize or maximize your space, as needed. In addition, modern design doesn’t have too much vertical décor or items to occupy the walls, so that means fewer holes. Everything is designed low to allow more light in, including platform beds and low deep sofas. That and an open concept flow to see more of the floor and make the space feel larger.

Do you have any tips for our readers for budget-friendly, renter-friendly design ideas?

Make the most of your space, especially if you plan to stay there longer. Simple renovations include swapping out cabinet knobs in the kitchen or bathroom, peel and stick wallpaper, countertops or floor tiles, plus keeping the costs low for furniture. This is not your forever home, so it is not necessary to invest in something lifelong. Check out secondhand shops for some vintage finds and have fun DIYing something.

As trends evolve, we all look for styles to fit our personal aesthetics and lifestyles, yet it’s always good to have some insight for inspiration. We hope you found some ideas in Shelby’s answers and are ready to upgrade your home! Check out Shelby’s work on her Instagram at @shelbygreeneinteriors and @decorreform for more inspo. If you’re looking to move to a new rental and start fresh, head on over to RentCafe and check out your options.

All images courtesy of Living Spaces.