Design Notes
Every home has a story, and it is mainly told through interior design. Each element plays a part in conveying what matters most to you and reflects a part of your personality. Over the years, an increasing number of individuals have stepped outside the traditional design box and incorporated elements that hold meaning for them or are connected to a cherished memory. This shift has led more companies to expand their product line to include unique items made from various materials. Designers have followed suit and are looking for ways to deliver a tailored look for each client. These results sometimes give rise to interior design trends, and 2023 has some fun and elegant ones. Let’s see if any of them interest you as you prepare to hit the refresh button in your home.
Nature themed
It may not come as a surprise to learn that nature-inspired themes continue to hold their own in the design world. From color choices to patterns, nature is a popular source of inspiration for creating the perfect indoor space. Earthy tones, such as soft browns and warm reds, will permeate various areas of the home, creating a peaceful and mellow atmosphere that is perfect for families looking to gather together and connect. Blues and greens are also among the top choices, especially in areas such as the kitchen. Paint companies like Sherwin-Williams and Behr opted for calm, natural colors in their 2023 paint selection, as these colors can complement a variety of styles and work well with other colors. Whether you are looking for some accent colors or a main design theme, you can’t go wrong by imitating nature. Read more tips on how to incorporate the beauty of nature, especially the Spring season, into your home from this article by Redfin.
Lighting trends
An important element when designing a space, regardless of whether it has ample or minimal natural light sources, 2023 promises to be a year of diversity. Elegant, large light fixtures are popular, along with those that are unique and made from various materials. People are also looking to layer their room with light as it provides function throughout the day. Wall sconces in the bathroom and recessed lighting allow you to turn on specific lights instead of one large one, which is a great option for both early mornings and late nights, especially if your partner has a varying shift. It also eliminates shadows, such as those created by under-cabinet lighting, allowing you to see what you’re cutting with ease. Homeowners are enjoying the various shapes and styles now available with light fixtures, as it lets them turn it into a work of art instead of an ordinary, boring light. Browse through the new light fixtures from companies and prepare to be awed.
Wallpaper trends
Wallpaper has gained popularity over the last few years, with no signs of slowing down in 2023. It has even evolved from an accent feature to a main element when designing rooms, including powder baths and mudrooms. There are many ways to incorporate wallpaper into your space, including above wainscoting, which is an instant touch of luxury in a dining or bathroom. It can also be used behind built-ins or bookshelves that have no backing, often used in living room designs, which will elegantly elevate the look and feel of the space. Earthy shades, such as reds, yellows, and browns, are the dominant influence on patterns and styles. Geometric shapes and large-scale patterns are on the rise and can give a room that stunning focal point. If you want to add a touch of elegance to your space that makes a statement, consider adding wallpaper.
Using glass in the home
Whether colored, frosted, textured, or clear, glass is making a beautiful comeback. It is a versatile design option that can be utilized anywhere in the home and blends into any style, making it a valuable asset that designers love. Replacing the typical kitchen cabinet door with glass makes a stunning statement, and adding LED lighting strips makes it even more luxurious. Stained or colored glass can be a fun way to add a pop of color to a room’s design, especially when paired with vintage pieces. Various furniture pieces are also incorporating more glass into their designs, such as coffee tables and doors for sideboards. Antique mirrors are another beautiful option that adds visual interest and character to a piece as well.
Pattern trends
Pattern is making a splash with bold, playful, and large designs, which can be mixed together to form an inviting and even elegant space. From the floor to the walls, patterns can be used in a variety of ways to personalize a space. Companies are also meeting this demand by creating new collections of their products that play off this delightful trend. As fun as they are, however, a little can go a long way, and designers recommend not overmixing them since it can be too much for the eye to take in. Try to blend colors or patterns that work well together for a stunning result.
Mixed decades
We know that each decade has its own trademarks, such as the warm colors of the 1970s and the florals of the 1950s. For years, the go-to option for interior designers and homeowners alike was what was popular during that decade; however, this has seen a shift in recent years as decades begin to merge together to create a unique feel. More people are using a combination of elements to express their own personality or highlight the things they truly love. The grand millennial is a wonderful example, as people are blending their grandmother’s furniture with newer pieces, such as lighting. Antique stores are a great place to find unique items that can be incorporated into your renovated space, yielding stunning results. Home is about telling your story, so don’t be afraid to use the things you love when making your design choices.
Sustainability
This remains a top priority for homeowners seeking more sustainable interior design options in 2023. The primary goal is to find ways to reduce waste and our carbon footprint. Sometimes, all we need to refresh a space is a coat of paint, reupholstering an existing furniture piece, or finding some items at the thrift store that can be restored or even modified to work within your current design. Biophilic design is the perfect choice when your emphasis is on sustainability, as its core is centered on how to work in harmony with nature. Some excellent options for sustainable materials include bamboo, reclaimed wood, and glass, which can be utilized in various ways within the home.
The right light can do much more than just illuminate a room. It can create a more inviting atmosphere in the room and give the illusion of a larger space. When selecting lighting for your home, there are multiple factors to keep in mind, such as size, amount, and placement. Since it is an essential part of designing an area, we thought it would be helpful to share five key considerations when selecting your lighting.
Walker WoodworkingOne of the main questions asked during the design meeting is what color the owners want for their kitchen cabinets. Were they looking to do a natural wood or a color instead? While many will opt to do the wood, many enjoy adding a splash of color to their kitchen or mixing and matching. It is a great way to break up the area and create a focal point, but with so many options available, how do you know which one is right for you? While it is up to you in the end, there are three colors that have stood out for some time and will most likely continue to do so. White, gray, and blue remain high on the selection chart, so let’s talk about these popular colors and why they may be the right fit for you.
Walker WoodworkingWhile the kitchen was often viewed as the place where food was merely prepped and served, it has transitioned into a command center as people gather to talk or enjoy a snack while getting some work done. Layouts have slowly shifted to accommodate this change, which has produced the open concept. This floor plan allows families to stay connected even when they are doing things in different areas of the home. While not as popular as it was in the 1990s and early 2000s, many families still choose this floor plan because of their desire to stay close to their family and guests. Today, we want to discuss the open floor concept, the elements that make it up, and if it is the right fit for your family.
Greenbrook DesignYou have just waved goodbye to your last child as they head out to college. While you adjust to not having kids in the house, you also begin to realize that you now have more space, but you’re not sure what to do with it. There are many ways to reuse the space, expand existing spaces, or make room for something new. Let’s take a look at the design possibilities available to you.
In the second of our three-part series on selection tips, we want to focus on tile. Backsplash, shower walls, and flooring are just a few of the many uses for tile since it is beautiful, durable, and timeless. Sometimes considered a small part of the design, it has the potential to make a big impact on the design. Here are some helpful tips when choosing tile.
Walker Woodworking 
Walker Woodworking