Volume 32: January/February
Winter just got a lot more fun
It’s design show season!
Thank you to our wonderful clients for a fantastic 2023!
As we move in to 2024 we are excited to share what we've seen and learned at this year's design shows. Last month we attended Las Vegas Market where we saw the latest and greatest in furnishings and color. Let us know what you think of these new furnishings and decor direct from Market.
Stayed tuned for next month's newsletter where we will share fresh to the market fixtures and appliances from KBIS (follow our Instagram for our real-time finds).
Design Trends
If you've followed me since Milan it's still about mixing textures, interesting materials, and natural elements. It’s still curvy, baby! Fluted details, rounded corners and everything wavy continues to be seen in new homes furnishings for a couple of seasons. Think wall details, round tables, and woven materials; keep your eye out for round pillows. If you are looking for reference, Michael Taylor did it best for his California cool look in the 1970’s + 80’s. His design work continues to influence trends and inspire designers decades later.
Color Trends
Jewel tones, muted or bright, they’re here again. If you think things are looking like the 80’s, you’re right. There’s a strong Art Deco influence from the 1930's flowing through the design world. We are seeing styles and trends update every couple years now when it used to take a decade for styles to run the course. We didn’t get our roaring 20’s!
Safety in Numbers
With the new year and holiday decorations put away (hopefully but no judgment), it is the perfect time to address how we all can make sure our bathrooms and kitchens are as safe as they are beautiful.
Here are 5 design elements you can add to your home that not only check off the safety box, but can be visually appealing and, dare I say, elegant.
Grab bars
Installing these in the shower can provide stability and support for those who may have difficulty standing for long periods of time or getting in and out of the shower. I know, you’re thinking of a hospital grab but that’s not what these look like. There are a variety of styles and finishes to complement your bathroom design that are “hidden” in most of our remodels.
Curbless showers
These are inherently a safety feature designed for aesthetics. By eliminating the raised edge of a traditional shower, there is less risk of someone tripping and falling when entering or exiting. Curbless shower pans can be beautifully achieved with the proper floor tile and grout. Material selections matter!
Nightlights
Another simple yet effective safety feature for households with children or elderly individuals who may need to use the bathroom during the night. Think bigger than your typical plug-in nightlight (which can be useful). Hidden lights under a vanity bring a sleek look to nighttime lighting without taking up space in your outlets. Outlets are also available with built-in sensor lights for an easy hallway update. Leviton and Snap Power both have great, easy-to-install options.
Induction ranges
These convenient additions to the kitchen are becoming increasingly popular due to their safety features. Unlike traditional stovetops, induction ranges have no open flame, reducing the risk of burns or fires. They also have built-in sensors depending on the model that turns off the heat when a pot or pan is removed, providing an added layer of safety.
Pot fillers
Adding these can be a game-changer for those with mobility issues, or really anyone that loves pasta! These faucets extend over the stove to easily pots and pans can be filled without having to carry across from the sink. This feature does need some planning as it requires a water line in the wall, so be sure to plan and consider if anyone in your household for those with arthritis or difficulty lifting heavy objects.
Safety in the home is crucial and is easy to plan for and incorporate. We hope these five precautionary principles will help you make your rooms a safer and more convenient place for everyone in your household. Let's make this year a time for prioritizing our well-being and health.
