Observations
Part I
As I work with clients I tend to notice similarities within projects. Below is Part I of my Top Ten that keep popping up in the remodeling and design world. I am sure that in my market we'll continue to see these trends.
Top Ten Local trends:
1. The space stays the same. No add-ons in square footage, but the existing space must be reorganized to maximize the storage, the function and how the homeowners use that space for multiple purposes.
2. Transitional appeal. The mood is one of a contemporary and yet traditional fusion, especially in the kitchen. Clean lines, Shaker style doors, stained wood or white paint - are paired with contemporary light fixtures or a punch of bright wall color. The result is clean, fresh and modern.
3. The Gathering Room - the kitchen, family room and dining room are becoming one space. The walls are coming down, the flow from one space to the next intersects. Interactions are instant, "real time" has become tangible in the home environment. With families on the go, checking in with each other becomes easier without the walls.
4. The Old Standby gets a facelift. Whirlpool is upping its' game by introducing sleek appliances in an "Ice" finish. Matt black or a soft white finish with stainless handles give the work horse of the industry a designer appeal. The all stainless line also boasts counter depth refrigerators, induction cooktops, contemporary styled hoods and wall ovens. Even the old faithfuls have now entered into the design arena. If you want to stay in the game you need to stay ahead of the game.
5. It's all about the design. HOUZZ, Pintrest, Dwell, HGTV and special interest publications have all piqued the interest of homeowners - men and women alike. Whether you're a DIYer or hire a designer chances are you have formed opinions based on web searches and have gained some product knowledge. Just a reminder, if you've never done a remodel and you're not sporting those battle scars from things gone awry, it may be best to bring in a professional. Before you begin, collect photos to determine the look you want. Chances are they will all be similar. Start with function. Anybody can make a space pretty, but if it doesn't suit your storage needs or adds ease of use to a space, what's the point? Design is an investment in time, knowledge and hard work. Sweat equity is one aspect that gets over looked as the project begins ...but pays off in dividends when it's all said and done.
Stay tuned for Part II.
Part I
As I work with clients I tend to notice similarities within projects. Below is Part I of my Top Ten that keep popping up in the remodeling and design world. I am sure that in my market we'll continue to see these trends.
Top Ten Local trends:
1. The space stays the same. No add-ons in square footage, but the existing space must be reorganized to maximize the storage, the function and how the homeowners use that space for multiple purposes.
2. Transitional appeal. The mood is one of a contemporary and yet traditional fusion, especially in the kitchen. Clean lines, Shaker style doors, stained wood or white paint - are paired with contemporary light fixtures or a punch of bright wall color. The result is clean, fresh and modern.
3. The Gathering Room - the kitchen, family room and dining room are becoming one space. The walls are coming down, the flow from one space to the next intersects. Interactions are instant, "real time" has become tangible in the home environment. With families on the go, checking in with each other becomes easier without the walls.
4. The Old Standby gets a facelift. Whirlpool is upping its' game by introducing sleek appliances in an "Ice" finish. Matt black or a soft white finish with stainless handles give the work horse of the industry a designer appeal. The all stainless line also boasts counter depth refrigerators, induction cooktops, contemporary styled hoods and wall ovens. Even the old faithfuls have now entered into the design arena. If you want to stay in the game you need to stay ahead of the game.
5. It's all about the design. HOUZZ, Pintrest, Dwell, HGTV and special interest publications have all piqued the interest of homeowners - men and women alike. Whether you're a DIYer or hire a designer chances are you have formed opinions based on web searches and have gained some product knowledge. Just a reminder, if you've never done a remodel and you're not sporting those battle scars from things gone awry, it may be best to bring in a professional. Before you begin, collect photos to determine the look you want. Chances are they will all be similar. Start with function. Anybody can make a space pretty, but if it doesn't suit your storage needs or adds ease of use to a space, what's the point? Design is an investment in time, knowledge and hard work. Sweat equity is one aspect that gets over looked as the project begins ...but pays off in dividends when it's all said and done.
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