The latest design trends may feel familiar. Home design has a tendency to do that—borrowing from the past and putting a modern spin on it. Here are five trends to watch.
- Blonde hardwood flooring
Darker wood tones were all the rage, but now the lighter colors of flooring are re-emerging. Blonde hardwood flooring is trending in wider plank versions that help give it a more modern, fresh look.
- Wallpaper
Wallpaper is everywhere: As accent walls, on ceilings, in powder rooms, behind bookshelves, and more. Geometric and floral patterns as well as metallic prints are trendy options.
Photo credit: Molly Culver / Designed by Mary Patton of Mary Patton Design
- The keeping room
The keeping room is an architectural feature that dates back to the 18th century. It’s emerging as a coveted spot once again, but often labeled as a “flex room” on modern homebuilder floorplans or as a hearth room or sitting room. Centuries ago, keeping rooms were spaces for relaxing or entertaining and were located adjacent to a kitchen, since they were traditionally heated by a wood-burning stove. Nowadays, they often feature a fireplace as a focal point and have multiple purposes, from being a place to entertain or relax to even a home office.
- Brass hardware
Brass has been staging a comeback over the last few years and its popularity doesn’t seem to be fading. This shinier hardware continues to serve as a trendy cabinet pull in kitchens or as a metal finish in the lighting.
- Curved furniture
Furniture lately is all about the curves. Curvier sofas and chairs serve as a big contrast to the straight edges that have dominated more contemporary furniture styles over recent years. The curvier shapes may feel reminiscent of the 1960s and 1970s. They are trending once again in creating cozier, more intimate living spaces.
How smart are you when it comes to the latest home design trends? Test your smarts in this interactive quiz.
