Design Notes
A new year means new opportunities to accomplish what’s been on your to-do list, including that home renovation. As we prepare to move into the new year, let’s discuss some of the design trends that are being predicted by those in the interior design world.
Stepping Back In Time
As much as we consider ourselves trendsetters and embracers of the new, there is something to be said about the comforts of the past. Many memories were made in the home, in a specific area like the kitchen or living room, which is no wonder why many are trying to recreate those spaces through design. It is always a pleasant feeling to return to the familiar, which is what many are doing today, including design elements that take them back to their parents and grandparents’ homes. Including certain furniture pieces, colors, and artwork is a great way to get a feeling of nostalgia in the space. Spend some time exploring sites like Pinterest for inspiration, and don’t forget to check out our furniture and home page, where we have links to multiple dealers where you can find that perfect piece for your home.
Styles That Are Making A Comeback
There are multiple design styles that are offered in the world of interior design. They rise and fall in popularity, but two have been on the rise: Traditional and classic.
- Traditional can be defined as a timeless style that takes its cues from the 18th and 19th centuries, incorporating classic art, antiques, and pieces with history.
- Classic is more of a style that offers refined and elegant features, reminiscent of antiquity.
This is not to say that the other styles are obsolete; in fact, where you live can play a part in your style selection, but these two perfectly fit the design trends of 2021. Both hail back to a simpler time and say comfort and charm like no other. Take a peek at some projects that were done in the traditional style, and maybe you will find the inspiration you need.
Selecting Functionality
It comes as no surprise to learn that homeowners are looking for functionality in the home, given that so many not only live but also work and go to school within their four walls. It is essential that the home be one cohesive design, but that each space can function on its own and fulfill certain needs. Consider including these elements in your home:
- Kitchen: This is the place where everyone gathers and often needs a little extra planning. Drawers are beneficial because they allow easy access to items such as plates and pots. Pan dividers are perfect for keeping all your platters and baking sheets in order. Roll-outs make it easy to get out and put away bulky items such as crockpots and air fryers. Extra seating around the island is also a great addition.
- Bathroom: This is an area that is used multiple times a day. Make sure to include things that will make your routine go faster, such as deep drawers where you can store your larger items, like a hair dryer. If there are no windows in the room, include extra lighting.
- Home office: This is becoming an essential element in the home as many are working remotely. Look for an area that could be turned into an office, where a desk and even shelves can be placed to help you stay on track and meet deadlines.
- Study area: Consider designating a space for the kids to do their school work since many are attending virtual classes and are probably struggling to stay focused. It’s easy to get distracted at home, but having a quiet place can help them be more productive.
Functionality in the home lowers stress by making it easy to go about your day and helps you stay organized. Be sure to talk to your designer about the things that are important to you so they can help design a plan that is perfect for you and your family’s routines.
While cabinet hardware is essential for functionality, it’s also a key element in the overall look and feel of your space. When selecting hardware, there’s more to consider than just appearance. How do you want your cabinets to open? Do you prefer knobs, pulls, or a combination of both? Should you go with cup pulls for a traditional touch or sleek bar pulls for a modern edge?
These decisions may seem small, but they can have a significant impact on both the usability and aesthetic of your cabinetry. Hardware serves as the finishing touch—bringing together the design while also making everyday tasks more comfortable and intuitive.
You are ready to begin your renovation, but you are unsure whether you want to go with custom or semi-custom cabinets. While custom cabinets will provide you with the exact fit you need for your space, they are at the higher end of the price range. Semi-custom cabinets tend to be a more budget-friendly alternative while still giving you the style and function needed for your space. Many homeowners are discovering the benefits of choosing semi-custom cabinets and are learning that they can still get the look they want while staying within their budget. Let’s talk more about what semi-custom cabinets are, the benefits they bring to your project, and some of the options we offer here at Greenbrook Design.
We use it every day but hardly pay any attention to it, yet it can impact the overall design of the home. We are, of course, referring to your flooring, and its importance should not be overlooked or underestimated. It is the largest design element in the home, which means it tends to serve as the foundation of the look and feel in the room. It has the ability to make or break your space and is subconsciously the first thing we notice in a room. Since it is used consistently, it must be durable and functional for the particular area, whether slip-resistant or waterproof. Flooring should also complement the overall design style you choose and be carefully considered before finalizing your choice. Here are some aspects to remember when making your selection.
The kitchen backsplash tends to be overlooked during the planning session for a renovation, but it has a big impact on the overall look of the design, and it should not be underestimated. To many, it may seem like such a small element, but it has the power to bring style, class, and protection to the heart of the home. When walking through a model home or flipping pages in an interior design magazine, the kitchen always has a backsplash that often draws our eye. Coming in multiple sizes, styles, and shades, the kitchen backsplash has come a long way from being a simple surface to creating a glamorous highlight that immediately draws the eye.
This deficiency has led to a readjustment of space, a call to renovate the home, and to provide a more functional design for everyone. There are also other reasons motivating homeowners to reevaluate their current living situation, such as greater flexibility at home, an open concept, personal space, and plenty of storage. While kitchens and bathrooms are still among the most renovated areas in the home, new emphasis is being placed on four additional sections in the home, which we want to highlight today.




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Walker Woodworking

Greenbrook Design