National Home Census Survey Reveals Americans’ Style, Décor Preferences and Trends

While Most Americans’ Style Remains Consistent Year Over Year, Their Décor Does Not

National off-price home fashions retailer, HomeGoods, recently released the results of its second National Home Census Survey, tracking the most current trends in American décor preferences as well as how Americans live in their homes. The first National Home Census Survey was released in January of 2011.

Conservatives Make Gains in Décor, “Global” Style Finally on the Radar

According to the latest Census, 46% of those surveyed describe their overall home style as “traditional,” slightly up from 44% in 2011. Other home styles gaining momentum since the last Census are “modern,” which increased from 20% in 2011 to 23% in 2013, and “global,” which increased from 2% to 8%. The large jump in interest in “global” may be due to its recent popularization in the mainstream design press. Interestingly, another current design trend, “eclectic,” actually decreased in popularity, falling two points from 13% in 2011 to 11% in 2013, despite being highly publicized. “Country” stayed consistent at 10% over the past 24 months.

Décor Do-Over

Even with style preferences remaining fairly consistent over the past two years, Americans are not nearly as steadfast in their current décor choices. More than 4 in 5 (81%) Americans say at least one room in their home is in need of a décor makeover.

Despite spending a majority of their time on the couch―51% of respondents spend the most time in their living room―Americans are craving a refreshed boudoir. More than half of those surveyed (51%) say their bedroom is in need of a makeover. This can be a simple fix by swapping out dull comforters, sheets and pillows with ones that have bold patterns and varying textures for a completely different look.

To Booze or Buff Up, That is the Question

Americans are clearly split when it comes to what type of home additions they would most like to make. More than half (55%) chose a spa or gym as their dream room addition, while 35% percent want a wine cellar or home brewery.

Spring Cleaning

In addition to décor and style preference, the National Home Census also tracks the prevalence of everyday chores in American homes. It turns out that cleanliness has not gone to the wayside in American homes. On average, Americans wash their bath towels every 4 days―a little more often than once every half week. More than 2 in 5 (41%) even clean them every one to two days.

About HomeGoods

HomeGoods offers an exciting, ever-changing selection of high-quality home fashions at prices up to 60% less than department and specialty stores, every day. HomeGoods provides consumers with unbeatable values on brand name and designer merchandise, and unique finds for every room, in every style. With over 400 stores across the country, HomeGoods is owned by the world’s largest off-price retailer, the TJX Companies, Inc.