We frequently get questions from clients who are
taking on decorating and remodeling projects and want to ensure their dollars
are invested wisely.
Which
looks will last for years to come, and which ones will feel dated quickly? What
colors and styles are most popular among buyers in our area? How can I add the
most value to my home?
So we’ve rounded up some of the hottest trends
in home design to help guide you through the process. Whether you’ve planned a
simple refresh or a full-scale renovation, making smart and informed design
choices will help you maximize your return on investment … and minimize the
chance of “remodeler’s remorse” down the road.
WHAT’S
HOT NOW
While 2017 was all about millennial pink, brass
fixtures and bright white kitchens, this year we expect to see a move toward
warmer, cozier elements throughout the home.
1. Warm
Colors
A cool color scheme has dominated home design in
recent years, but this year warm neutrals like brown and tan are back, along
with rich jewel tones. While the pastel craze of last year is still hanging on,
expect to see alternative color palettes featuring deep, saturated shades of
red, yellow, green and navy. Grey will remain popular, but in warmer tones,
often referred to as “greige.”
2. Cozy
Elements
Along with warmer colors, we can expect to see a
shift from stark, modern design to cozier looks. Velvet upholstery, woven
textures and natural elements, like wood and stone, will heat things up this
year.
3. Mixed
Metals
It used to be considered gauche to mix finishes,
however the look of mixed metals will be very big in 2018. Brass will continue
to trend, along with matte black and classics like polished chrome and brushed
nickel.
4. Bold
Patterns
Expect to see a lot of bright, bold patterns in
the form of geometric shapes and graphic floral prints. These will be featured
on everything from furniture to throw pillows to tile.
5.
Natural Elements
Look for the use of natural elements throughout
the home, including wood, stone, plants, flowers and grass. Botanical patterns
will also be seen in prints, wallpaper and upholstery. Concrete accents will
complement these additions in an effort to bring the essence of the outdoors
inside the home.
6.
Feature Walls
Also called an accent wall, a feature wall is
one that exhibits a different color or design than the other walls in the room.
Expect to see an increased use of feature walls showcasing rich paint colors,
bold patterned wallpaper, and textures brought in through millwork and shiplap.
7.
Statement Lighting
Lighting will take center stage with distinctive
fixtures, including local artisan and vintage pendants and chandeliers. And
smart lighting technology will enable homeowners to customize their lighting
experience based on time of day, activity and mood.
8.
Hardwood Floors
Hardwood floors will continue to dominate the
market. The trend is toward either very dark stains paired with light-colored
walls or light stains with darker walls. Greyish tones will remain popular, as
will matte finishes, which are easier to maintain than high gloss. Expect to
see frequent use of wider and longer wood planks, as well as distressed and
wire-brushed finishes, which add texture and dimension.
9. Smart
Homes
Everything is getting “smarter” in homes, from
locks and lights to thermostats and appliances. And with devices like Google
Home and Amazon Alexa, you can control many of these with voice activation from
a central hub. We will see continued integration of and advancements in
smart-home technology in 2018.
KITCHEN
TRENDS
While white kitchens will remain popular in 2018, expect to see more color this
year in everything from cabinets to tile to appliances.
1.
Two-toned Cabinets
Two-toned cabinets are quickly overtaking the
white-on-white look that has dominated kitchen design for the past few years.
While white remains a classic, grey and bleached-wood cabinet variations are
surging in popularity, along with darker neutrals like navy and green.
2. Quartz
Countertops
Granite reigned as the top countertop choice for
many years, but quartz is now king. It’s highly durable, low-maintenance and
comes in a wide variety of styles and colors. It’s also heat resistant, scratch
resistant and non-porous (unlike granite and marble) so it doesn’t need to be
sealed.
3. Bold
Backsplashes
After years of dominating backsplash design, the
white subway tile is officially on its way out. Expect to see it replaced with
more elaborate shapes, patterns, colors and textures. Tile that mimics the
appearance of wood, concrete and wallpaper is also gaining in popularity.
4.
Statement Sinks
While stainless steel and white porcelain are
always safe bets, the trend is moving toward sinks that make more of a
statement. Look for unexpected pops of color and materials like natural stone
and copper. Touch-free faucets are expected to gain favor with homeowners this
year, too.
5. Brass
is (Still) Back
Brass fixtures came back in a big way over the
past couple of years and will continue to be a popular choice in 2018 along
with matte black, black nickel, polished chrome and brushed nickel. Missing
from the list? Rose gold, which is decidedly “out” this year.
6.
Multi-purpose Islands
Kitchen islands have evolved from simple
prep-stations into the “workhorse” of the kitchen. Many feature sinks, built-in
appliances and under-counter storage while also serving as a casual dining
area. They have become the focal point of the kitchen, and we expect to see more
of them in 2018 and beyond.
7. Black
Stainless Steel
Black stainless steel is the hot new finish
option for appliances, and it’s hitting the market in a big way. It offers a
cutting-edge look and is easier to keep clean than traditional stainless steel.
However, it’s harder to match finishes amongst different brands, so it’s
probably only feasible as part of a complete appliance package.
8.
Appliance Garages
Appliance garages are counter-level compartments
designed to house small appliances like blenders, toasters and stand mixers.
They make it convenient to have these items readily accessible, without the
look of a cluttered counter.
BATH
TRENDS
Expect to see many of the same kitchen design
preferences carry over into bathrooms this year, including two-tone cabinets,
quartz countertops and brass fixtures.
1.
Neutral Tones
Neutral shades will continue to dominate in the
master bathroom as homeowners seek a soothing and relaxing retreat atmosphere.
But expect to see more options than just white. Shades of brown, grey, blue,
green and tan will help to warm things up.
2.
Natural Elements
Natural materials are particularly hot right now
in bathroom design. This includes the use of wood and stone on walls, cabinets,
counters and backsplashes, as well as the incorporation of botanical design
elements.
3. Large
Tiles
We expect to see a lot more large and slab-sized
tiles in bathrooms, which have less grout so they are easier to clean and
maintain. Wood-look porcelain tiles are also a favorite in wet areas, as they
offer the warmth and rustic appeal of wood with the durability of tile.
4. Stone
Sinks
Sinks will continue to be an area where
homeowners like to exhibit creativity, and hand-carved stone sinks are
especially fashionable right now. These may be more suited to powder rooms,
where functionality isn’t as crucial.
5.
Freestanding Tubs
There’s been a tub resurgence in bathroom design
after years of preference for stand-alone showers. Modern tastes are
gravitating toward freestanding tubs that serve as a showpiece for the
bathroom.
6. Smart
Features
Smart technology has entered the bathroom with
the addition of features like wireless shower speakers and high-tech toilets,
as well as digital shower controls that automatically adjust to your
preferences in temperature and spray intensity.
OUR
ADVICE
Style trends come and go, so don’t invest in the
latest look unless you love it. That said, highly-personalized or outdated
style choices can limit the appeal of your property for resale.
For major renovation projects, it’s always a
good idea to stick to neutral colors and classic styles. It will give your
remodel longevity and appeal to the greatest number of buyers when it comes
time to sell. It will also give you flexibility to update your look in a few
years without a total overhaul. Use non-permanent fixtures – like paint,
furniture and accent pieces – to personalize the space and incorporate trendier
choices.
If you’d like advice on a specific remodelling
or design project, give us a call! We’re happy to offer our insights and
suggestions on how to maximize your return on investment and recommend local
shops and service providers who may be able to assist you.
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