Smart Style Trends
For most homeowners, the preference for airy, light-filled spaces with a spa-like qualities continues. People are still spending more time at home and seeking a welcoming and warm design aesthetic.
Accordingly, the focus on sparsely furnished, minimalist interiors is waning, along with the popularity of all white or white with cool gray, which can feel cold or even clinical. Cream, ecru, and other warmer neutrals are increasingly popular, and natural, stained wood cabinets (in lieu of painted) are bringing warmth to kitchens and baths.
While gold and bronze tones are still on trend for fixtures, lighting, and cabinet hardware, with the advent of warmer neutrals and wood tones, silver, pewter, and black stainless are a classic way to provide contrast.
Patterned tile backsplashes (particularly behind stoves) are quickly becoming dated. Use texture (in the tile itself or its application) instead of a pattern, or a “slab backsplash”, created by continuing the countertop stone onto the wall, for a seamless and immersive effect.
Two-toned cabinetry, and the use of bolder colors (particularly green and blue) are also likely to become dated, while neutral and natural wood cabinets provide a classic, timeless effect. Mission style cabinets are giving way to sleeker design with thin edge detail, which is a cleaner and more contemporary look.
Panel-ready appliances are desirable for their sleek look, and new oversized “workstation” sinks offer great function, with flexible inserts like colanders, cutting boards, and drying racks. Sculleries or butler pantries are highly desirable to provide function, while keeping a showcase kitchen clean and uncluttered. However, homeowners planning renovations still need plenty of patience, as long lead times continue for materials and appliances, particularly for new and popular options.
About Gulick Group, Inc.: Established in 1987, Reston-based Gulick Group has developed communities throughout Fairfax and Loudoun Counties, including One Cameron Place and Newport Shores in Reston, The Reserve in McLean, Autumn Wood, Grovemont, and the three Riverbend Communities in Great Falls, Red Cedar West in Leesburg, and Wild Meadow in Ashburn.