Remodeling Trends
Bathroom and kitchen remodels are still number one for homeowners. Not only do these types of remodels add to the owner’s enjoyment of their home but they are also the best for recouping investment when the house is sold.
Cool sophistication is now the name of the game in home decor trends.
Colors
The neutral earth tone of shades of browns has faded. Color choices now include gray and slate blue. Darker colors for walls such as navy blue and forest greens are gaining in favor. Contrasting white and black shades are also an option.
Bright colors are used as accent colors such as red pillows on a couch or a wall painting with many colors. Hot pink is another accent color that decorators are using more often.
Light blues and greens are popular in bedrooms.
Dark navy blue is also making a comeback. If you feel it’s too dark for the entire room use it at the back of bookcase. This will make the decorations in the bookcase pop. Or paint one wall as an accent wall keeping the others a lighter color.
Looking for a new neutral color? Greige may be what you need. It’s not grey and it’s not beige but it has a touch of both. It creates a warm space, especially mixed with woods.
Textures
Though this is often an overlooked part of decorating, a variety of textures can change the feel of a room. Woven rugs, furniture upholstery, canvas paintings, wall tapestries, all add to the appearance of a room.
Metal
Gold colored light fixtures are gaining in popularity. Copper sinks and fixtures are still used in many kitchen and bathroom remodels.
Flooring
Wood floors are still popular but some people are turning to manufactured wood because it is water proof and more durable than natural wood.
Tiles are still used in remodels of living rooms, kitchens and baths. Slate grays and blues are now the most used colors.
Heated floors are a popular option for luxury bathrooms as well as heated towel racks.
Counter tops
Granite counter tops in kitchens and bathrooms are still in favor and come in a wide variety of shades from black to variegated blues and browns.
Composite counter tops are gaining favor as well. They are low maintenance and last forever.
Cabinets
Kitchen cabinets are going sleek. No more paneled doors. Gray or blue flat and sleek cabinets are what buyers currently want.
Backsplashes
Pure white subway tiles are still popular but are slowing giving way to make room for more unique colors and designs. Even when stark black and white tiles are used the patterns are varied to give a unique appearance. Bold colors are thrown in as accents.
Going Green
Many homeowners are thinking of the environment when they remodel. This includes using reclaimed materials such as wood or bricks for projects.
Also, energy efficient appliances and toilets that use less water are favored. These not only lower the home owner's carbon footprint, but also lowers their utility bills.
Adding insulation in attics and walls and using insulated windows are other ways homeowners use their remodeling dollars to lower their bills.
Bathroom Trends
One of the big changes taking place in bathroom remodels is that some owners are no longer opting for the giant soaking tubs. With the busy lives most people live they’re choosing to add large showers with rainfall shower heads.
When they do add a big tub, the choice is currently a free standing tub. Claw foot tubs are once again popular.
Going International
If your living room is filled with neutral shades of browns or blues you can make the room pop by adding color and texture with a Moroccan rug.
Or add Turkish runners in the hallway or in a narrow galley kitchen.
Children’s Rooms
This is the one room in the house were bright colors still lead the way. A bold color palette is often coupled with geometric shapes to create an exciting living space.
For nursery the colors are sometimes more muted pastels with bright accents using wall decorations or mobiles in the crib.
Conclusion
Remember, unless you’re planning to move in the near future, your remodel should reflect what you and your family want and need in a home. Though resell value should be considered, you should still strive to make your home as enjoyable and practical for your current family needs.