Design Notes
Home is about comfort, about reflecting yourself through the design choices you make. While we don’t recommend changing it up every other month, there are times when you need to hit the refresh button. Revisiting your space periodically can significantly enhance the home’s atmosphere as well. Many designers recommend redecorating every four to five years for several reasons, including:
- Avoid a dated room
- Shift in function
- Inventory what you have
Sometimes, certain areas of home decor have been influenced by trends that are no longer in style and can make the space feel dated or even uninviting. Rooms also serve a specific purpose, and those can change over time. If your children are no longer living with you, their bedroom can be transformed into a craft room or even a guest suite. There are also some new things that are making their way onto potential homebuyers’ lists. We have done some research for you and discovered some of the top new items being used in home design.
Undercounter Wine Refrigerators
Wine is a classic beverage and enjoyed by many. Increasingly, homeowners are opting for a wine cellar or dedicated room where they can enjoy a glass before bed or with friends in the evening. This shift has prompted designers to become creative in finding ways to incorporate it into their designs. For some, the option to build a new dedicated space is not possible, which has led to the popularity of the under-counter wine refrigerators. A significant benefit of choosing this option is that it allows you to store your wine safely and securely, ensuring it maintains the ideal temperature and minimal exposure to light. It also means that it is readily available in an area where most of the family gathers, such as the kitchen. You can choose to have it placed in a beverage center, which takes up less room but provides an additional storage area for wine glasses as well. Similar in size to a dishwasher, this appliance won’t take up much room, meaning you are ready to enjoy a glass at any time of day or night.
Farmhouse Style Vanities
The farmhouse style is one that has remained popular because it is warm, inviting, and welcoming, making it feel like you can come as you are whenever you like. It truly creates a home-like atmosphere for everyone, including guests and family alike. While it has been utilized by many designers, including famous TV personalities, as a kitchen style, it has begun to make its way into other areas of the home, including the bathroom. Your vanity is the main focal point of the design and tends to set the tone and theme of the space. As the farmhouse style is also practical and functional, it is a perfect fit for the bathroom. Some of the characteristics of the farmhouse look are:
- Classic wood material
- Metal accents
- Large sinks
James Martin Vanities is a great option for those looking to upgrade their bathroom vanity rather than undertake an entire renovation, as they have a much shorter lead time. If the vanity is in stock, it can be as little as two to three weeks. They offer a broad selection of vanities, ranging from single to double. Some of the more farmhouse styles include:
- Bristol
- Copper Cove
- Malibu
Greenbrook Design is an authorized dealer for James Martin, and we have several vanities on display in our 5,000-square-foot showroom.
Lighting
Sometimes all you need to do in your home is shed some new light, and new light fixtures can do exactly that. Good lighting is an important part of designing a new space and can be accomplished through several means, such as:
- Accent lighting
- Light fixtures
- Task lighting
By sourcing various lighting options, you can reduce or minimize the amount of shadows a room has. Be sure to keep in mind the function of each area, as that impacts the lighting decisions. Under-cabinet lighting is essential in the kitchen, and both table and floor lamps are beneficial in the living room and bedrooms. Some of the newest lighting trends for 2022 include:
- Large light fixtures
- Unique shapes
- Soft lighting options
- Organic feels like woven shades
Lighting is also important as we age; forcing our eyes to read or do tasks in a poorly lit area of the home can cause unnecessary strain. This is also not a huge investment compared to a renovation, but it can yield multiple benefits. Light also influences our mood; a room with sufficient illumination can make you feel more relaxed and comfortable. Read a few more things about the newest lighting trends for 2022 in this article from The Spruce.
Backsplash
Backsplash is a great way to add color, texture, and unique patterns to your kitchen. It also plays a crucial role in protecting your kitchen wall from stains and making cleanup a breeze. There are a great many choices available, ranging from simple, clean whites to fun patterns that add visual interest to the kitchen. Walker Zanger is one of the dealers featured in the Greenbrook Design Showroom, and they recently launched a new line of backsplash tiles that they curated. Twelve new natural stone mosaics were presented in this line, and they are stunning. This company toured the world to uncover mosaic tiles that not only had style but also gave great value. These tiles are cut with precision and thoughtfully designed to provide clients with a collection that offers multiple design options and patterns, transforming their space from drab to fab in an instant. They have bold colors such as Ebony clouds, which is a stunning contrast of black and white. Calypso is a great choice for those who enjoy a more traditional style. Take a peek at this elegant collection from Walker Zanger to see all of the options.
Hardware
This is one of the best options for those interested in doing a small revamping of their space but not ready for a full renovation. Not only is it beautiful, but hardware is one of the most functional components. It protects the cabinets from the natural oils in our hands, as well as the dirt we carry, and allows us to easily open and close doors and drawers while preparing dinner in the kitchen. It also makes a visual statement when choosing ones that have a sharp contrast, such as black matte against white cabinets. From bathroom cabinets to even the desk in your home office, hardware can make a big difference. One new trend that is surfacing is the idea of building it directly into the cabinet door, such as notched pulls. This is a beautiful option for those who prefer a minimalist style.
Connection has become a priority in the home over the last couple of years. It can be considered the most basic function of the home, as this is where we gather with family and friends to celebrate, congratulate, and comfort one another. Designing with socializing opportunities has been at the forefront of design for decades, exemplified by spaces such as sitting rooms and large dining tables. This need for connection has made a strong comeback, and designers are once again looking for ways to bring families together. We want to have a home where we can relax and easily engage with one another, but many homeowners also desire spaces that are unified while still retaining a unique character of their own. Let’s talk about how to create a home with connecting spaces.
Several variables are involved in selecting the perfect tile, including material, pattern, and color, as well as factors that influence style and placement. Tile is also a versatile and durable design element, making it a suitable option for frequently used areas. Let’s explore how you can incorporate tile in the home.
Greenbrook DesignThe kitchen tends to be one of the busiest areas in the home, and over the last year, it has become more than just a place to cook food. It has evolved into a multifunctional space where everyone gathers to perform a wide range of tasks. With so much at stake, planning a renovation requires careful thought and well-designed plans. Many designers caution against following the latest trends, but there are a few additional design mistakes they also encourage their clients to avoid. If you are considering a renovation or a new construction project, here are our top five biggest kitchen design mistakes to avoid.
Countertops are often underappreciated and underrated in the design world. They are the true workhorses of any space, as they are used regularly and withstand a great deal. We chop, pound, knead, spill, and more all over these smooth surfaces, yet they continue to function day after day. Unfortunately, they are not meant to last forever. Experts recommend replacing them every 10 to 15 years, especially if signs of wear and tear are evident, such as stubborn stains, chips, or cracks.
Walker Woodworking Sometimes, certain areas of home decor have been influenced by trends that are no longer in style and can make the space feel dated or even uninviting. Rooms also serve a specific purpose, and those can change over time. If your children are no longer living with you, their bedroom can be transformed into a craft room or even a guest suite. There are also some new things that are making their way onto potential homebuyers’ lists. We have done some research for you and discovered some of the top new items being used in home design.
