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.
Granite, Quartz, Marble, or Quartzite?
These are the top contenders when it comes to selecting the perfect countertop material for your kitchen or bathroom. Each one brings its own strengths, aesthetic appeal, and practical considerations—making the decision both exciting and a bit overwhelming.
Granite is a natural stone known for its durability and unique, one-of-a-kind patterns. Quartz, on the other hand, is an engineered surface that offers a wide range of color options and is prized for its low-maintenance qualities. Marble stands out for its timeless elegance and heat resistance, though it requires more upkeep. Quartzite closely resembles marble in appearance but offers greater durability and easier maintenance.
When making your selection, it’s important to consider factors such as heat and stain resistance, ease of maintenance, and of course, budget. Below, we break down the key differences, pros, and cons of each material to help you determine which surface best suits your lifestyle, design vision, and practical needs.
The kitchen pantry is often one of the most underutilized yet high-potential spaces in the home. While it can easily become a catch-all for clutter, a well-designed pantry is a true hidden gem—capable of transforming the functionality of your kitchen. From storing oversized serving pieces to housing everyday essentials, a thoughtfully planned pantry helps keep countertops clear and mealtime prep more efficient.
Whether you have a compact pull-out pantry, a spacious walk-in, or a dedicated butler’s pantry, innovative organization is key. A well-designed pantry not only maximizes storage but also supports the flow of your kitchen. Below, we’re sharing a few of our favorite design ideas and practical tips to help you better utilize your pantry space—and maybe even inspire your next kitchen upgrade.
Our showroom’s grand opening was the culmination of two years filled with vision, planning, and hard work—a dream brought to life through dedication and passion. Now, as we prepare to celebrate our second anniversary, we find ourselves reflecting on how quickly time has passed. It feels like only yesterday that we opened our doors and welcomed our very first clients into the space we’ve come to love so much.
Join us as we take a walk down memory lane and revisit the milestones, challenges, and moments that brought us to Uptown Shelby. This anniversary isn’t just a celebration of time—it’s a celebration of growth, community, and the relationships we’ve built along the way.
Walker WoodworkingThere is more to color than simply a large selection of hues. Color sends a message and can represent thought and emotion, especially in the world of design. Each year, Pantone announces its choice for the color of the year, a tradition that started in 1999, and designers everywhere eagerly await the news. Classic Blue was this year’s choice of color, a color that represents the future.
As we prepare to close the door on one decade and begin anew, many are filled with anticipation of what the coming year will bring. Blue has always been associated with stability, relaxation, and tranquility, as is seen in nature with the ocean and sky. We understand that hectic schedules and stressful office days generate a need for a place to unwind and completely relax. Here are a few ways to incorporate the color of the year into your home and give it that welcoming environment that will last throughout the coming decade and beyond.
Walker WoodworkingLight is one of nature’s most captivating elements, and its presence has the power to transform a space. In the world of interior design, natural light plays a vital role—not only by enhancing aesthetics but also by elevating the overall atmosphere of a room. It can create dramatic contrasts that bring depth and interest to a space, while also highlighting architectural and design features.
Natural light, when thoughtfully incorporated, makes interiors feel larger, warmer, and more welcoming. At Greenbrook Design, we embrace a design approach known as daylighting—the intentional use of natural light to shape how a space looks and feels throughout the day. It’s one of our favorite tools in the design process.
Here are just a few reasons why we love incorporating natural light into our projects…
Walker Woodworking 
Walker Woodworking