As part of the hardware and construction industries for the past 30 years, I follow design trends pretty closely. I am not an interior designer, but know what I like and don’t like. So, it is again time for my annual design trends blog.
I am a design and makeover show fanatic and also read countless blogs on what the so-called experts say is trending. Sometimes I agree, and sometimes I don’t agree. That is the fun thing about design.
NO LONGER IN STYLE
I will start with what is said to be no longer stylish. Last year, we told you feature walls are out and that is true again this year. Unless done well, they become dated very quickly.
I have a feature wall a different color in my living room, and I like it. Use wall accessories like sconces, pictures and design elements to accent a wall. These can be easily changed as styles change.
A television over the fireplace, once extremely popular, is now considered a design faux pas. Many designers also noted that the fireplace should be the focal point of the room, not the TV. I agree with this design trend. Let the fireplace have prominence.
Chair rails have been a design favorite for centuries, but no more, according to the experts. Removing this accent is said to make the room look bigger. I personally think it adds a vintage look in period style homes.
Kitchens are trending toward a high-end look so don’t scrimp on the accents.
In the living room, matching pillows are out, as are heavy drapes. Go instead for contrasting pillows and lighter, airy drapes that let in natural light.
TOP STYLES FOR 2021
Othedesignrs still on the in-list are traditional and shabby chic, a style many TV designers popularized. Antiques and repurposed pieces give a vintage appeal and add a personal touch. Who doesn’t like antiques?
My ‘60’s ranch home includes many of my grandmother’s antiques. I also have many styles combined in my home making my style somewhat eclectic.
As I have mentioned in previous blogs, if you like it go for it – after all, it is your home and you are the one living in it every day.
With so many still working from home, the home office or bonus designroom, is a necessity. Complement the room with desk accessories and fun colors. Plaids are popular as they present a happy vibe.
Yellow and gray are Pantones top colors for 2021 and can be used on walls and as accent colors for pillows and rugs. Blue is another good option. Blush pink is being touted in bathrooms by some designers.
Accent rugs should be larger instead of the smaller rugs used previously. Geometric patterns are still popular design trends.
WORTH THE INVESTMENT
Realtors will tell you, kitchens and bathrooms sell houses. The experts say high-end cabinets are well worth the investment and will recoup the investment when selling. Builder-grade cabinets can look cheap and don’t project today’s high-end look.
Quartz counter tops are as stylish as granite for less money and come in many colors and patterns to compliment both light and dark cabinets.
The kitchen island is still popular and is used for a family gathering, meals, mini-office, and more. Island legs come in every period style and a number of wood options. Others areas where spending more pays off is floors. Choose a material that will last for years like real wood or composite woods.
With many staying home, family meals are back. A sturdy and stylish table and chairs is an investment that will last for many years.
The sofa is one item that many skimp on, but choosing quality furniture that will last for years is a better investment. I have learned this the hard way buying numerous couches over the years.
Last year I bought a high-end bedroom set with all matching pieces. What a difference!
Outdoor kitchens and outdoor living spaces extend the useable space of the home and are great for use in summer into fall.
No matter your style, Van Dyke’s Restorers has hardware, wood, and accessories to suit any taste. What design trend is your favorite?
Check us out @ vandykes.com. Happy decorating!