Last issue, I spoke about current design trends in relation to furnishings and accessories. For this issue, I did some research, as well as analyzing the projects at our firm, and here goes:
If you haven’t updated your home in a while, you are in for a treat. Technologies have improved so much and there are more durable and great looking options than ever before. Some of these trends have been building the last few years, and others are quite new, so here is a run-down of how we are livin’ these days…
Open floor Plans.
This trend has been emerging for years, and it is very well suited to the Southern Oregon way of life. Having common spaces for eating, cooking, and gathering is more informal, flexible, and cozy. Sometimes as designers, we will even flip the living and dining spaces so it becomes even more cohesive, and open, as a living space. Open plans also bring in more light, which has a very happy vibe!
More windows.
And speaking of light, larger windows will help flood natural light into your home, and the windows of today are very energy efficient, making indoor temperatures easier to regulate. Another plus of choosing larger windows is the view. Smaller, paned windows, can feel make you feel boxed in and unable to enjoy the Oregon landscape. Larger windows and glass doors will help bring the outside in.
Smart Home Innovations.
The appliances for your home are getting smarter and smarter. Your refrigerator can alert you when you run out of milk, your coffee maker can be built into your cabinets and have it brewed by the time you wake up. Lighting and heating systems can be programmed from your phone. And of course, there’s Alexa…not sure how I feel about that one!
Finishes.
Brushed nickel is still strong as a finish for hardware. It really is a timeless neutral. Last year, gold was trending and is a very warm and beautiful finish, but I think the best application for gold tones is in the higher-end market. The lower priced gold finishes just don’t make the cut. They look cheesy. Oil-rubbed bronze is still relevant, especially for a warmer feel than nickel, and could also be considered a classic finish at this point.
Tile.
Tile is a big investment, and if you get too trendy, it will date your home very quickly. Subway tile continues to be classic, timeless and affordable. An update for subway tile is to consider a contrasting grout color. Cement tile is another trend that is beautiful with a soft, matte, finish. As a rule, you can almost always choose tile in a matte finish, whether it’s terracotta, cement, stone or porcelain, and it will have real longevity in your home. Matte tiles allow for the shape and color to become the main focus, rather than the finish. It adds a lovely layer of sophistication to a space. Shiny, colorful, glazed tiles are trending currently in some high-end homes, but they may date themselves before you know it! Faux wood tile is also becoming extremely popular, which can be great when you need an indestructible surface.
Countertops.
Granite has had its’ run here and everywhere for quite some time, and marble has been a close second in high-end homes, but the MVP now is Quartz. Quartz is man-made, and is non-porous, scratch and stain resistant, which makes it super tough! Mold, bacteria and mildew cannot penetrate the surface and they also do not require re-sealing, so the long-term maintenance is excellent. As with tile trends above, a quartz countertop, whether glossy or matte, can become a shimmering surface that is less dominate than other materials, and thus over time, you may not tire of it!
There are countless details to be considered whether you are building, or re-modeling and this article only skims the surface. But hopefully, you can take these guidelines with you as a guide, as you forge the waters of creating a beautiful home.