Design Notes
Home trends and styles change every year as designers track the elements that seem to be gaining popularity and why. While it is not recommended to follow the latest trend simply because it seems like the ideal choice, there are reasons why some trends become popular, eventually becoming a staple in design. 2022 brought several trends in home decor, some of which have been around for a while but are now gaining traction for good reasons. Let’s explore some of the top options on the list so you can understand the benefits they offer and determine if they are a good fit for your home.
Nature Inspired Designs
Nature has remained an important aspect in design for quite some time, not just because it looks pretty and adds a touch of color to the space, but because it has several benefits, such as:
- Reducing stress
- Cleaning the air
- Improve mood and concentration
Choosing to let nature inspire some of your design choices is a great way to create a soothing atmosphere in your home since the color green is known to produce a calming effect. Real plants also clean the air in your home, which is wonderful for a healthier environment for your family. It can also be a help for those who work from home, as it can aid in concentration and even productivity. Consider placing a few in your workspace or home office. There are several options that are a good choice for those who don’t feel confident in their green thumb ability, like:
- Fiddle leaf fig tree
- Sweetheart plant
- Succulents
Many of these options require little sunlight and water, yet they provide your spaces with beauty and charm. Nature-inspired design is not limited to just plants; you can also incorporate elements like wood accent pieces or landscape artwork. Bringing a little nature inside could be just what your family needs.
Multifunctional Spaces
Functionality is a key phrase for many people, especially when it comes to interior design choices. Homeowners want to maximize the use of their spaces, especially when square footage is limited. Opting for furniture pieces that can serve dual purposes is a smart decision, such as a coffee table that can also store blankets or board games. Also, consider areas of the home that can serve more than one purpose. The kitchen island can serve as both your dining room table and provide extra storage. A guest bedroom can double as a home office when you select the right furniture pieces. More and more, homeowners are realizing the value of multifunctional spaces that allow them to get extra use from traditional areas in the home, which is why interior designers look to maximize the space you already have. Spend some time on places like Houzz and Pinterest, where you can glean inspiration from others who have discovered great hacks on creating multifunctional areas. Another important aspect is understanding the role of each room in your home and how it can be repurposed for other purposes as well. Understanding your needs is the key to developing a good plan.
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Options
Another important issue for homeowners is selecting sustainable products and eco-friendly options, which can lead to energy savings through energy-efficient designs. Choosing this option can reduce your utility bill while also making more environmentally friendly choices. When it comes to selecting eco-friendly materials, think about:
- Recycled
- Reused
- Reclaimed wood
Many of the items we would consider trash can often be turned into something useful or remade into another product entirely. Not only is it great for the environment, but it can also be beneficial for your family, as it reduces the use of toxic chemicals and conserves our natural resources. When undertaking a home remodel, consider items that can be reused, such as old wood beams, which can be used for accent walls, materials for small home projects, or even as a piece of furniture. Several companies also offer recycled products, such as glass, which can be used in multiple areas of the home. Don’t forget to look around at some of the things you already own that can be reused or repurposed to serve another need. Often, eco-friendly options provide charm and character that standard ones cannot, giving your home a one-of-a-kind feel.
Minimalist Design
This trend is here to stay for the foreseeable future as it eliminates the temptation to gather clutter while still creating an elegant look for the home. The goal is to accomplish a great deal with limited resources. Simplicity, clean lines, and a soft color palette are the main ingredients for a minimalist decor. Think whites, grays, and even some blacks traded for simplicity. If you assume that a home will look dull and boring without the extras, you are wrong. Sometimes the best designs are the ones that focus on what matters. A furniture piece can now take center stage, such as a couch with curves that captures the attention, rather than everything else. This does not mean you can’t have color and accent pieces, but if you prefer something more subdued, you can opt for that style instead.
Geometric Floor Patterns
Flooring is an important part of the home as it is the most used section and should be given some thought. A pattern can completely alter the look of the flooring, and there has been a recent shift to geometric floor patterns. Some examples include:
- Herringbone
- Chevron
- Honeycomb
- Diamond
- Hexagon
There are multiple ways to highlight the beauty of these patterns, such as color and size, though a neutral color palette is recommended when using a larger geometric pattern, or it can be a little overwhelming. That is not to say you cannot use some pops of bold in the pattern, especially in smaller areas like bathrooms or mudrooms. Consider opting for solid-color area rugs or furniture pieces, as they can balance out the room’s design and provide a focal point for the eyes. Geometric patterns offer several benefits, including adding visual depth to your home and conveying a sense of authentic style that reflects your personality. From stunning foyers to soothing bathrooms, geometric floor patterns can help create a luxurious ambiance that welcomes you home every day.
There are many elements that help assemble the perfect design for your space, such as color, texture, and pattern, but one, in particular, plays a key role in making a statement: the focal point. Without a focal point, a room can feel busy or even boring, as it lacks something that immediately draws the eye. This is one of the reasons it is essential to include a focal point in the design; however, given its critical role, sufficient thought should be given to placing it in the optimal location. How do you design the perfect focal point that stands out without overpowering everything else? How do you best use focal points in a room or design with it in mind? Let’s explore the answers to getting the most out of your focal point.
In today’s fast-paced world, there’s something special about slowing down and appreciating the timeless things—old roads, old friends, old traditions—that still hold so much value. Here in our little corner of North Carolina, Uptown Shelby continues to embrace those small-town treasures.
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