2018 Interior Trends

The trend forecast is always a bit tricky for me. I am not a designer that necessarily puts a lot of stock in the latest design trends. Actually, I don’t even have a specific design style I subscribe to. While trends are a great way to introduce consumers to products and materials they may not have had previous exposure to, at the end of the day your home should be an environment that reflects who you are and how you live. In years past I have turned to furniture and accessory markets, manufacturers websites, online publications and local showrooms to see what is on the design horizon. This year I am going to mix it up. My 2018 Interior Trend forecast is based on what I am experiencing with my clients in the St Louis Metro area.

LIGHTING

Lighting plays a major role in every project. In fact, one of the first considerations in the architectural design process is determining how the residence will be situated on the site, taking into consideration the orientation of the residence in relationship to the sun path. In addition to this natural lighting there are 3 main types of artificial lighting categories that should be incorporated. Check out our blog post A Well Lit Interior for more information on the different layers of lighting necessary for a properly illuminated space.

2 Trends In Lighting –

One is the embracing of LED technologies. I have to admit even I was intimidated by the ever-changing world of LED technology. We experienced such a rapid evolution in LED that just when you thought you knew what you were talking about the next greatest advancement had happened. I think we have finally begun to realize the potential and capabilities of LED and as a result have found the way to shape the conversation around the technology. Here are just a few of the ways LED is changing the lighting industry and our interiors.

LED tape lighting on stairs

Architecture by Srote & Co Architects

The other direction I see is maximizing the use of recessed lighting throughout a residence as the ambient source of light, and choosing your moments for a statement fixture. Areas that used to be a traditional location for a flush mount or pendant are now replaced with a recessed can light and sconces have become common place in bathrooms in lieu of the expected light bar.

MIXING FINISHES

One of the most often asked questions I get during the interior selection process is in regard to matching metal finishes. Do my door knobs need to match my plumbing fixtures? Should my plumbing and lighting fixtures be the same finish? It really depends on your aesthetic and the metals being considered. This bathroom is a perfect illustration of mixing gone right!vanity featuring mixed metal finishes

STATEMENT MIRRORS

Statement mirrors are a great way to add personality to any space and come in all sizes and price points. Besides the obvious function they provide, mirrors are a great way to expand spaces and break up the use of art in an area. The variety of frame styles and materials really allow you to make a statement without overpowering a space. Wayfair and Home Goods are two of my go-to resources when looking for readily available options. If you are not in a hurry Uttermost and Arteriors are great resources to explore.decorative accent mirror

2nd floor Laundry Room

I can’t believe it took us so long to realize that in a typical 1-1/2 story or 2 story home the majority of the laundry comes from the 2nd level. Why we spent years dragging all of it up and down the stairs is beyond me. In this scenario, the mudroom on the main level becomes dedicated to cubbies for storage and a planning zone with a stackable washer and dryer located in the owner’s suite. Laundry rooms are similar to formal powder rooms in that there are no rules when it comes to decorating them. It does not have to flow or communicate with the rest of the home so it is a fun place to take a risk. While laundry may not be the most exciting task doing it in one of these rooms sure would make it more enjoyable.

One’s To Watch

I can’t wait to see what 2018 has in store for us! I have a few developing trends on my radar and am looking forward to seeing how much momentum they gain over the next 12 months. Our homes and the products we use in them continue to adapt and change to accommodate our fast paced lifestyles. With a renewed focus on health and well-being we are already seeing steam technology for cooking gaining popularity in our kitchen designs and the amazing health benefits it provides undeniable. Yoga and Pilates rooms, massage rooms, home gyms and saunas are becoming common place in our custom residences. We will see if it makes the list next year. Stay tuned!

Are you all ready incorporating any of these in your interior? We would love to see your space. If not, which one are you likely to try in 2018?