The Ins & Outs of Design for Millennials
Millennials, born between the 1980s and 1990s, represent the largest population segment in the United States. Their unique experiences shape not only their attitudes and expectations but also their preferences for home design style.
The influencing trends they seek to incorporate into their homes are based on the need for customization and self-expression through their color choices, interests, and tastes. By understanding Millennial style preferences, real estate professionals can appeal specifically to their customers by being well-versed in lifestyle trends.
A large portion of this generation is being influenced by their color choices on social media like TikTok, which may influence their search when browsing for their next property. The color beige gained a lot of traction during the beginning stages of the pandemic when homeowners had the time and energy to take on DIY projects. Some Millennials love beige hues and their beige home accents. Just walk around a local Target store; there will be enough beige to decorate your entire house. On the other hand, there is a trending term called “sad beige,” which started from TikTok comedian Hayley Deroche in a video she made stating it was silly that there was neutral-colored children’s clothing and other followers agreed that the beige color obsession was overboard.
Many other millennials are adding pops of color back into their homes. They are going for vibrant color palettes that reflect their energy. In 2024, bright oranges, reds, playful purples, and earthy greens are the leading trend colors.
Alma De Luce (Furniture Designer) said, “ The trend colors represent a fusion between traditional tones and an innovative approach, mixing classic elements with modern touches to create an interesting visual balance.”
Colors aren’t the only influencing factor for Millennials; they are also drawn to a diverse range of styles, often incorporating elements of industrial and vintage design while emphasizing flexibility and multifunctionality. Millennials utilize materials such as wood, wallpaper, personalized neon, and natural fabrics to create spaces that reflect their individuality. Their influence on color, design, and style is evident, as some prefer simple, modern, and neutral color schemes while others crave the need to add more color. While their home may feature industrial-vintage decor or pastel colors, the overall style uniquely blends retro, industrial urban, and eclectic elements.
Millennials are looking for depth and architectural design when it pertains to the outside of the home. More and more builders are incorporating the modern farmhouse look. Some Millenials looking for single-family homes may gravitate toward a mixture of horizontal and vertical hardie boards—large format windows for natural light and decorative exposed wooden beams. Color also plays a role in this look, and you may find some of these homes updating trim and gables to a black finish.
The ability to make their home personalized is part of their design choices and can influence their home-buying decisions.
Samantha Minns
RWorld Content Writer
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Sources: Business Insider, Alma De Luce, Sherwin Williams
