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There has been a lot of talk about trends and keeping current with design ideas. Knowing the difference between a trend and a fad can help you guide the design of your new home. The two terms, trend and fad are often used as synonyms, though their meanings are not the same at all.
Here are some trends that have staying power:
Healthy design materials: Asbestos and lead paint are a thing of the past. Thank goodness. We have learned to use organic materials and products that don’t use harmful chemicals or contribute to off-gassing. Sustainable design and green practices eliminate harmful fumes and chemicals. Natural materials like stone and wood are not only beautiful but also provide healthy, natural finishes.
In-home fitness: Mountain homes are often a destination. Designing in a fitness room is a trend that will be around for a long time. Spa tubs, whirlpools, steam rooms, dry saunas and spa-influenced bathrooms are spin-offs of this healthy trend.
Open spaces are welcoming spaces. Being able to move from one space to another without obstructions creates an open and inviting home. Today instead of walls, spaces have implied separations. This concept can be employed between stories also, creating spaces that feel open and airy.
Kitchens are the heart of the home: Once tucked away, kitchens are now in the forefront of the home. The kitchen is more than a cook space, it’s a gathering space. Dining rooms are still around, but an eat-in kitchen is a trend with lasting power. Once tucked away, kitchens are now in the forefront of the home. The kitchen is more than a cook space, it’s a gathering space. Dining rooms are still around, but an eat-in kitchen is a trend with lasting power.
Bringing the outside in: Inside and outside are brought together, blurring the distinction between the two. Indoor / outdoor living space can include anything from living rooms to kitchens. Any place you spend time can be enhanced by bringing the outdoors in.
Large Windows: Today’s windows and doors are efficient and easy to design. They are not only beautiful, bringing the outdoors in, but they also contribute to the passive home concept. This is a trend that will never go away. Today’s windows are extremely energy efficient, making them easy to design into a high-performing home.
Flexible spaces: Rooms that can be transformed and re-purposed are a growing trend that really works. Having the ability to add a room you need without adding on is a great idea. How you use the room may change as your family grows or shrinks. A little planning can create spaces that you can alter as needed.
Home design trends have evolved over hundreds of years. The trends come back around while the fads go away. Things once considered fads, like the art-deco movement are now considered timeless. While other styles, such as the stark plain concrete designs of the 1970’s are now considered cold and uninspiring. Luckily, many of the timeless designs of our past are resurfacing. The trick is to use them as they were intended without making an architectural collage of everything “cool” mashed together. Different styles can be merged together, but be careful and remember; too much of a good thing is still too much.