What was new is now old, and what was considered old last year is new again. Today’s home design trends are evident in the many television design programs, and magazines constantly tout ideas to improve a home’s look. But, what types of design elements are destined to remain in vogue for years and which are likely to wane quickly? Those answers are always elusive, but design experts routinely suggest homeowners use care in selecting the elements for new construction or redecorating projects.
Expanding Living Spaces to Outdoor Areas
Decks and patio areas are perennial favorites and are likely to remain popular in the years to come. However, the ways homeowners choose to use those spaces is evolving. Rather than being viewed as simply an ancillary touch to use occasionally, modern deck and patio designs are now seen as extensions of indoor spaces. The design elements and furnishings often mirror interior features but do so in ways that are weather tolerant. Outdoor kitchens offer homeowners practical ways to entertain large groups and enjoy balmy weather conditions at the same time. Protected areas, employing new devices like electric infrared grills, make it possible to cook delightful dinners even during less-than-ideal weather. Fire pits are also commonly used to enhance an outdoor area’s ambiance and, at the same time, extend the outdoor entertaining season.
Going Green
Homeowners are also exploring ways to create designs that are environmentally friendly. Green design elements include materials like bamboo flooring and reclaimed woods. Using paints and other finishes that are not toxic is also increasingly popular not only for new construction but for remodeling and redecorating as well. Lighting fixtures using LED or similar technologies top the must-have lists of environmentally-conscious homeowners as they last far longer than older lighting and require less electricity to operate. The list of green strategies for home designs is rapidly expanding, with new materials and building techniques being introduced frequently.
Sourcing Products Locally
Contemporary home design trends often focus on using products produced locally. Local artisans, for example, may create unique tile designs that promote the local culture while, at the same time, produces local jobs. Local artisans may also be a great source for custom-made light fixtures and cabinetry or furniture. Since each region has a unique history, those influences are often seen in locally-produced design items.
Explore Shapes
Both exterior and interior design experts are encouraging homeowners to look at shapes other than simple squares or rectangles. Different shapes add unique touches to rooms, often heralding a return to the past while still offering modern materials and conveniences. Look, for example, at the ceramic tile options now available at quality suppliers that are a far cry from older tile shapes and sizes. Using an array of shapes and sizes stretches beyond building materials to include furnishings like tables, rugs, and lighting fixtures.
Avoid Aging Design Trends
Styles and materials that enjoyed prominence in the past few years may well be destined for obscurity soon. Of course, many designs are timeless and will remain popular with little, if any, substantive changes in the future, but other trends will, without a doubt, fall into obscurity. Appliance colors are a good example, suggesting homeowners should carefully weigh their options prior to making decisions.
At Icon Building Group, our team of experts is always available to assist homeowners looking for ways to create unique homes that will still be considered in vogue far into the future. The design experts stay on top of building styles and coveted design trends to ensure our clients’ projects not only look good but provide a solid investment. We’re also experts at resolving or preventing all those issues that seem to pop up during projects. To discuss the options available for your project, contact Icon Building Group today.
For some additional ideas on Interior Design for 2016, see House & Home’s tips:
