Design Notes
Over the last several years, there has been a shift in the definition of home. What once meant a place to come home to after a long day has evolved into something more: a place that reflects and expresses who we are and what we love. This has led homeowners to become more creative in their choices and to be willing to push beyond the traditional rules and elements of design. For years, we felt obligated to live within the expected design ideas, but now new styles, such as grand millennial and Bohemian, have gained popularity, with more being explored. There is great freedom in being able to think outside the box and incorporate elements that were previously not combined, and now they can be with amazing results. This experimentation with personal expression extends beyond the intimate areas of the home, such as the bedroom and living areas, and into kitchens, home offices, and even bathrooms. Let’s talk about some of these spaces and how you can weave more of you into them.
Ways To Personalize Your Kitchen
While white kitchens have continued to remain a popular choice for homeowners, many are tired of the trend and want it to be more fun and exciting. Some great ways to brighten up the kitchen include:
- Backsplash
- Contrasting island color
- Range hood
- Countertop
- Lighting
The heart of the home can truly be transformed into a work of art when the right elements are blended together or even made to stand out and make a statement. A backsplash is a wonderful way to add visual interest and texture to your kitchen. From whimsical mosaics to bold color choices, you can instantly transform drab spaces into fab ones. Two-toned kitchens are also trending because they allow you to add a color you love, or even a beautiful wood stain that brings warmth to the overall design. Range hoods are also becoming a way for homeowners to add a pop of personality to their space, with some opting for a stunning metal hood or a rustic farmhouse style done in shiplap. Lighting is another great way to blend a part of your personality into the kitchen. Whether it is a unique fixture that blends metal, glass, and wood, or a fun pairing of sizes over the island, let yourself “shine”. Countertops now come in a wider range of patterns and materials, so have fun visiting the slab yard and finding one with vein patterns that resonate with you. Alternatively, you can pair wood countertops for your island with traditional countertops on your perimeter.
Ways To Personalize Your Bathroom
Although the bathroom is considered a functional area in the home, that doesn’t mean it has to be boring or traditional in appearance. Several designers are now bringing back wallpaper, but not in the same way as the old days, when it was on every wall in bold, bright patterns; however, that is still an option. Wallpaper used on an accent wall in the bathroom can create a dramatic effect that will take it to the next level of excellence and elegance. Countertops are also a great way to have some fun by finding one with a unique vein pattern or a dark color against a light vanity. It makes it stand out and takes your breath away. Floor tile is a wonderful way to incorporate something different and unique to the bathroom and can really give it a “wow” factor. Tile companies like Crossville and Daltile offer a wide variety of tile, including those that resemble wood, which can add warmth to your bathroom space. A freestanding soaker tub can be an expression of your personality, as there are several shapes and sizes for you to select from now as well. Even the color of your bathroom vanity can be a way for you to highlight something you enjoy as well.
Ways To Personalize Your Living Room
The living room is one spot in the home that tends to be used often, so it makes sense that it should reflect you in every area. Accent pieces and furniture are the key features that will be noticed right away whenever someone visits, so pick items that really represent you. Don’t be afraid to embrace color, even bold ones, in furniture pieces like the sofa. Even manufacturers have responded to the demand by designing sofas that have unique textures or a fun blend of metal and fabric. Select accent pieces, such as pillows, table lamps, and home decor items, that you love. Who says they even have to match each other? There are several amazing design styles that are a blend of various elements, resulting in something that is uniquely their own. Include pictures of things that matter to you or special family memories to personalize it to you. Canvas prints are a beautiful way to fill your walls with the people you love most. The living room is meant to be a place that truly feels like the place where you can come and let your hair down.
Ways To Personalize Your Home Office
As more people work from home, adding a personal touch to your home office can be considered essential. With many people spending 8 to 10 hours in this space, it is essential that there are elements inside that give your eyes a rest and refresh your creativity. Consider the things you enjoy and use them as your foundation for reinventing your space. Do you like inspirational quotes? Find some that hold a lot of meaning for you and have them transformed into a work of art for your wall. Love the outdoors? Bring in some potted plants to brighten up the space; they will also purify the air and are beneficial for your eyes when you need a break from the computer screen. Find a chair that feels comfortable to you, as you will be sitting in it for most of the day. Alternatively, consider adding a comfortable armchair where you can sit while working on your laptop or reviewing files. Incorporate some favorite framed memories from vacations or adventures to make it truly personal, and consider adding some fun accent pieces that bring a smile to your face. Having an office that you enjoy coming to every day, one that reflects your personality, can make a significant difference in your performance levels. Just a few simple upgrades or adjustments are all it takes.
Walker Woodworking There are some that have remained constant, while others have had their brief moment to shine, but does color really matter? Is there a reason behind the colors we choose, and can they really have an influence on the home? The answer is yes, color is one of the most powerful design tools, which is why designers are taught color psychology in school. To better help you understand its importance, we thought it would be helpful to share some of this information with you.
Kitchen layouts are a critical part of the design process because they can help you maximize the use of your space. There are certain layouts that are better suited to a particular home, such as an apartment or a large open area, making it essential to understand the function and benefits of each. Selecting the right kitchen layout for your new home is crucial, as it is one of the most frequently used rooms in the house and must be tailored to your specific needs and lifestyle. Let’s discuss what each layout is, which one works best for different home designs, and the benefits it can provide.
Greenbrook Design Window treatments are often the last element considered when decorating a house, but they play a crucial part in the overall look of the home. They are often considered the finishing touch to any space and can influence the feel as well. The fabric choice, the style, and even the function can bring several benefits to your home. Window treatments offer protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays, shading you and your furniture from fading, while also lowering your electricity bill. Selecting a fabric that complements your particular design style or creates a beautiful statement in your home can make all the difference in any room. Window treatments also serve a functional purpose, as they can block the sun’s glare and provide you and your family with privacy.
Walker Woodworking 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.
Walker Woodworking We know that at the end of the day, it is the details that make a space feel like home. The functional kitchen space is great, and the multipurpose bathroom vanity is a must, but the little things enable every area to reflect you and your personality. There are literally hundreds of ways to utilize accent pieces throughout your home, but one that has been trending for some time is the use of plants, both in your indoor and outdoor spaces. Traditionally, when we think of plants, our minds think of real but faux greenery, and florals have also become popular. Dried is another option that has found its way into the design world.
Walker Woodworking 