While art is a personal choice and has a huge foundation in personal authenticity, it is fun to peek behind the curtain and see what people “in the know” think about upcoming trends for the home.
The other part of this equation is if you own your home and plan on selling it in the near future, it pays to know what trends are on the outs before you spend money installing expensive appliances or floors that date the property.
With the influence of the Internet, international trends impact more people than ever before, and very quickly. People on social media share photos; and within minutes, the next hot idea can become mainstream.
Let’s start with one of the more expensive and permanent subjects, appliances.
Silver stainless steel appliances are now commonplace and becoming less popular, with the trend moving toward black stainless. I like the look of black appliances, but if each water drop or fingerprint shows, I opt for another surface.
Colorful appliances add whimsy, but they set the tone for a room, an expensive choice that will be semi-permanent. Select colored appliances carefully; and when in doubt, opt for neutrals instead. Colorful pillows, towels, and dishes are much easier to change with the season or your whim.
Marble flooring and countertops are headed out (especially white), and softer looks from wood and ceramic tiles are in. Think rounded and less cold.
Headboards are changing. Wood is out. Upholstered pieces are in, especially with dramatic lines or other designs such as buttons or nail heads, which add interest. A soft fabric headboard is nicer to the touch as well, but they are harder to keep clean than wood.
Color trends in the home are moving away from the stark white and polished metal look and instead toward rose and soft blue, or “earthy pastels.” Gray backgrounds add a touch of sophistication to soft pastels.
Surprise, yellow walls are out.
White subway tiles, stark and cold, are easy to maintain but don’t add a lot to the look, and they have been over-used for many years. They do mix well with any color, but consider other alternatives before you install new subway tile. They date the space.
Terracotta tiles are becoming more popular for flooring. I have always loved their rich look and earthy feel, and there is something ethnic and grounding about living with a floor made from clay. It brings us back to the earth in many ways, and quality tiles wear well.
In cold climates, you can add in-floor heating (especially in the bathroom) to add a feeling of luxury.
Jewel tones on furniture and amenities are on the rise, with dark green showing up more. Layers of blue tones are also popular, which creates a soft background for artwork, furniture, and other accessories.
Dark green walls are in. Navy and midnight blue walls are out.
Wallpaper has made a comeback with large prints (especially bold geometric patterns or lines) with murals being the most popular. Small fussy patterns are out. Instead, think huge inexpensive wall art.
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