Tag: open floor plan

2021 home design trends

What’s In and What’s Out: 2021 Home Design Trends

Posted on by Nicole White in Home Design

A new year means new trends. 

People spent a lot of time in their homes in 2020, which means many are rethinking their home design and decor. Take a look at what trends are expected to stay in and what’s on the way out in 2021!

IN: Bold Paint Color

There are many bold, vibrant colors in 2021’s paint color predictions. From vibrant hues to darker earth tones, more people will play with color. While some will start with the walls in their home, others will keep rooms neutral and add in bold accents or furniture. 

OUT: Open Floor Plans

With people using their homes for work, school, and play, it’s natural that privacy has become an issue. I mean, have you tried having jumping on a Zoom meeting while your kids are logged into Google Classroom? While I don’t think the open flow will disappear completely, designated spaces for work or school will become a priority. 

IN: Easy-to-Clean Materials

Easy-to-clean materials are expected to rise in popularity as people not only spend more time at home, but are more conscious than ever about the spread of germs. Non-porous materials, as well as fabric designed to resist stains and bacteria, will likely become more prominent. Let’s call this a win for parents of young children!

OUT: Matching Everything

From furniture sets to monochromatic rooms, the days of perfectly matching decor may be over. By mixing furniture, finishes, and decor, design becomes more personalized. Complementary colors, designs, and materials will help add warmth and style to any room. 

IN: More Plants

Indoor plants aren’t a new concept, but you may start to see them, along with other natural elements, more than before. Indoor trees and plants act as an accent piece by bringing in a piece of the outdoors. Lighter woods, natural materials, and earthy palettes can also help to create a space inspired by nature. 

OUT: Toilet Paper

Ok, maybe not completely, but I had to add this to the list! Bidets are expected to become popular here in the US. Some are adding a bidet to the design of a remodeled bathroom, while others are opting for bidet attachments. 

What trends are you happy to see? Let me know in the comments!

kitchen features

Nicole’s Favorite Kitchen Features

Posted on by Nicole White in Kitchen

Who doesn’t love a stunning kitchen? From morning coffee to after-dinner cleanup, we often catch up on the day’s happenings while in the kitchen. Not to mention it’s where we cook, clean, and enjoy meals.

There’s so much that goes into designing a kitchen because beyond aesthetics, it needs to be fully functional. Keep reading for some of my favorite features in the kitchen!

Open Flow

open floor plan

Open floor plans continue to be the most sought-after setup for the main living areas. Being able to see and hear what is going on in the living and dining rooms from the kitchen makes the space feel intimate, without being crammed into one room.  An open floor plan is ideal for gatherings with family and friends. 

An open workflow in the kitchen is also crucial to the functionality of the space. When designing a kitchen, consider the kitchen triangle, or the uninterrupted flow between the sink, refrigerator, and stove. Keeping these paths clear makes for a kitchen you enjoy cooking in!

Multifunctional Island

kitchen island

Kitchen islands come in all shapes and sizes, and they appear in just about every kitchen where space allows. Depending on the layout of the kitchen, the island can be utilized for prepping food, cooking, or cleaning. 

Seating options at the island make it fully multifunctional. Stools, high-back chairs, or a bench attached to the back of the island allow for places to sit or stand, creating a perfect gathering spot. Use these seats to enjoy a quick meal or catch up with loved ones over a beverage.

Pantry

pantry

A walk-in pantry in the kitchen is equivalent to a walk-in closet in the bedroom. It just makes everything better! 

We all know how many items you need to store in the kitchen. Food and small appliances, along with dinnerware and cutlery, take up a lot of space. A walk-in kitchen with shelves, drawers, and counter space keeps your must-haves organized and eliminates clutter from the kitchen. 

This week, you get to help with the pantry design at the Residences at 66 High Street. Head to Facebook or Instagram to vote on the pantry door!

Wet Bar with Wine Fridge

wet bar with wine fridge

Need I say more?

Even if you don’t use it every day, a wet bar with wine fridge is another way to keep the rest of the kitchen clear of clutter. It makes enjoying a cocktail extra convenient, whether you are hosting a gathering or saying cheers on a weekday. 

Tile, Lighting, and Hardware

tile, lighting, and hardware in the kitchen

You don’t think I’d leave tile off the list, do you? 

While these are seemingly small items, remember it’s the details that truly transform a space. A tile backsplash can add a new dimension to the kitchen, whether you opt for a pop of color or stick to a single color scheme. Fill the kitchen with different types of lighting, including natural light from windows, ambient light overhead, task lighting for cooking, and accent lighting to draw attention to a focal point. Finally, switch up the hardware on cabinets, faucets, and fixtures to achieve the look you love!

I’d love to know – what are YOUR favorite features in the kitchen?