Tag

trend

When it comes to interior and exterior design everything has a role in making it successful, from large surfaces such as walls and floors to the tinniest pieces like knobs and light switches. On the other hand, as the old saying goes, you only get one chance to make a first impression. The first thing everyone will  notice when entering your home is the front door and anything you did in making your house not-so-basic will be in vain if the entrance is not representative, as well. These are the front door paint trends that guarantee you the ‘wow’ every time.

Stone gray and a contemporary surrounding

When it comes to contemporary exterior and design in general, the choice of color plays an equally important role as it does with traditional environment. Still, from a somewhat different angle. Since contemporary design tends to be somewhat harsh, a proper choice of color will soften the intensity without taking anything away from the aesthetics. Stone gray with its untimely elegance will do the  job. Adding matte black hardware will further harmonize everything and reinforce the overall effect.
Stone gray door

Eclectic design solution

Mixture of various styles that the eclectic design successfully embodies is often the choice for people who want to own a not-so-basic house. Sporting all of the various design influences without taking away any of them or emphasizing a single one at the expense of the others can be rather tricky. The safest bet when it comes to front door paint would be to opt of a soft yellow paint. Its low-key finish will be perfectly neutral and at the same time contribute with a freshening and welcoming effect.
soft Yellow door

Red brick emphasis

Making a difference when it comes to homeowners fond of red brick facades or living in a row of ones surely is challenging. The usual mistake that is made is trying to do something bold with the front door design and color which ends up in a complete mishmash in the majority of cases. Taking just the opposite direction promises more success. A calming shade of charcoal gray is the perfect color to impart the traditional red brick exterior making it stand from other houses in a row, without ruining the neighborhood compactness.
charcoal gray door

Ivy exterior

If you happen to own a house that is fully covered in ivy, choosing a suitable front door color is another specific task. Narrow your choice to contrasting color palette. Even though ivy changes its color throughout the year, for the majority of time it has one of the shades of green. Having this in mind, the best choice would be either full white or black. The proper choice depends on the rest of your exterior design and the message you wish to send. White is more inviting and warm, while black radiates elegance and distance. Reinforce idea with the hardware in the same color.
Black froont door

Rustic looks

Sometimes the best paint is no paint at all. If you own a traditional design house that has a wooden front door, rustic looks will feel perfectly at home. Peel the paint off the wood all the way down to its natural paint. Then apply a protective layer of transparent wood lacquer. It will protect the door and at the same emphasize the natural grain and bring out the patina, adding a touch of class to the entire house.

Rustic wooden door

The proper choice of the front door paint will have a strong positive impact on the overall outlook of the house and make your not-so-basic house even more extraordinary. Still, the style dictates the choice of color and it is strongly advisable to follow the standards. Being too bold will only take away from the house instead of contributing to it.

2016 might just be the year you decide to redecorate your home. If you do so, you should make sure you follow some of the latest trends. Take a look at the following projects which might serve you as inspiration and help you choose designs, strategies and materials for redecorating.

Home Design Trends for Your Garage

Good news if you are not using your garage just to store your car – You can now have screen doors which do not interfere with the system of the garage doors. So, there is no need to open the whole garage doors when you just want to grab a couple of things. There are some systems that even have a door within the screen for easy access. The price of such garage doors depends a lot on the features you decide to go with, but on average, they will cost you around $1,400.

Garage Screen Door Source: lifestylescreens.wordpress.com

Hardwood Kitchen Flooring

Hardwood is going to be the ultimate flooring choice for many kitchens in 2016. Hardwood flooring brings warmth to your kitchen and gives it natural looks. Hardwood stands up to any stains but you should also cover the area you will be using the most with a small mat or rug. If you want to keep the traditional look you can go with mahogany or dark walnut stains. Even though flooring like this lasts for years you can refresh the kitchen by refinishing or staining them every couple of years.

Hardwood Kitchen Flooring Source: studiofuller.com

Solar Water Heater

More and more homeowners are deciding to use one of these. If installed carefully, a solar heater can provide a major percentage of a home’s hot water for a long period of time. Even though you will have to pay for the heater and the installation, the price of your utility bills will be reduced and after a couple of years, you will recover the expenses you had at first. Experts say that getting a solar water heater is one of the best ways to invest in renewable energy in 2016.

Deep Kitchen Drawers

You might want to organize your kitchen cabinets better in 2016. And installing deep drawers might just be a way to do so. It is one of the best ways to store your cooking equipment and still reach it easily. Most of the cooking pots and appliances like a toaster cannot fit a standard drawer and that is when a deep drawer might come in handy. You can also add dividers and inserts so you could separate your dishes and pots according to the set or size.

Deep Kitchen Drawers Source: www.hymer.com

Heated Entryway Floors

Heated floors are definitely a great choice for bathrooms, but in case you live in a cold area, you might want to install these in your entryway as well. First of all, this will keep your entryway warm during the whole winter and give you that pleasant feeling once you step out of your shoes. Also, we might have a wetter summer than usual, and this means we will be using umbrellas and raincoats. But having heated floors will keep your entryway from getting slippery and messy.

If you decide to redecorate this year, these are the things you should go for. Still, make sure you are always in search for some home improvements you can make.

You know that excitement and rush of feelings you get when you spot that perfect shoe in the window or that impeccably tailored dress you simply feel you must have? Yes, fashion designing turned into decorating gives you the same awe-like feeling only, this time around, translated into your favorite pieces of furniture.

Fashion designers turning interior is the latest and ultimate kick

Image credits

Imagine having the opportunity to sit on a fabric designed by Diane Von Furstenberg herself and actually have it a part of your interior; Giorgio Armani lines, Dolce & Gabbana vibes, Cavali extravaganza or Salvatore Ferragamo’s romanticism of space…are just some of the names that pop in our head when we think about the latest trends in interior design.

To be honest, none of us is getting really surprised with the news that fashion designers are taking it to a new level now; if anything, it was a logical stream of development, with their creative genius finding all niches that will have their creativity supported while at the same time keeping it recognizable, desired and, well, expensive.

Dolche Gabbana fashion interiors

Image credits: 1, 2

Fashion designers turned interior designers have one big advantage over “regular” interior designers; they have already built a brand for themselves, they are already an adored trademark so there is no dispute if the translation of their clothes and style into furniture would work. Even if it happens not to, they’d be allowed a few slips and have a few passes at least until they get it right. In the end – the amazement before what they managed to accomplish and the beauty of their creativity replicated onto the living space is simply stunning.

We are allowed to ask, though – what may be the motive of this transition? Is it the never-fully-satisfied-rich-and-spoiled-clients? The models? The fact they might have got bored with doing one and the same? Or is it just that there is so much creativity in them that keeping it focused to runway only doesn’t seem enough anymore? Well, whatever it is, it’s amazing and we are loving every second of it.

Christian Lacroix fashion designers
Image credits: 1, 2

If you ever get the chance to pop over to Milan, make sure you see Hotel Maison Moschino which is nothing but spectacular and Hotel Bulgari featuring such refinement and attention to detail that it’s absolutely breathtaking; when in Edinburgh, see the Missoni Hotel and if you happen to drop by Berlin, go to Schlosshotel im Grunewald, by Karl Lagerfeld. The hotel is a true reflection of its designer – gloomy but chic, stunning and utterly overwhelming. If you are feeling like you could use a bit of exotic in your life, opt for Dubai – Hotel Armani (definitely something you need to experience firsthand) or Palazzo Versace in Australia. Donatella Versace oversaw every single detail of this opulent resort and guess what? There is a Palazzo Versace Dubai, also!

Versace fashion designers trend
Image credits: 1, 2

What’s evident is that designers are either using some of their most recognizable collections for the translation to the interior design, or they are sticking to their signature colors and patterns for the added recognition. And, do they find the whole process of “designing for the furniture” hard? If anything, it’s probably challenging.

I only know how to design clothes, so in a way I ‘dressed’ the furniture”, said Gaultier for the Independent. “When I design my couture and prêt-à-porter collections, of course I supervise everything. I can sometimes have ten fittings for a couture dress until I am satisfied with it. The dresses are then made in my atelier so I can follow it beginning to end. For the furniture, which is not my domain, I had a wonderful partner in Roche Bobois who could supervise the production and turn my drawings into a reality.”

Dear interior designers, you better watch your backs because fashion designers are rapidly stepping on to your turf, and they are doing it superbly!

This year’s interior design scene is characterized by creative blends of retro decors and contemporary elements, with just a few green additions to spice up the mix and achieve a flattering natural effect. Home designers throughout the world have come to regard vintage as the new modern, but old-fashioned decors have been re-imagined in different ways across countries. If you have not had a chance to check out the biggest home decorating trends in 2015, take a quick look at the top five national reinterpretations of classic designs: we guarantee you will love them!

1. Russia: Mix of old and new

russia.jpg

Image credits

The Soviets are known for their sentimental attitude towards the past and an undying love for furnishings evocative of bygone eras. The use of imposing wooden pieces, overhauled antiques and charming vintage details such as ceramic figurines, lavish art objects and rich drapes creates an ambiance of grandeur and Russian bourgeoisie style reminiscent of the Belle Époque. For a décor borrowed straight from the set for Anna Karenina, add vintage nightstands, solid wood armoires and crystal chandeliers to your living area, and round off the look with a set of old-fashioned wine glasses and a black-and-white chessboard.

2. India: Craft Revival

india.jpg

Image credits

The cradle of beautiful carpet patterns and supple fabrics, India has ventured to restore its traditional crafts to the global interior décor scene. With fascinating rugs and elaborate throw designs crafted by antique quilting and weaving techniques, Indian homes are characterized by abundance of cultural motifs and appealing textures, and old-fashioned elements also occupy a prominent place in wall treatments, linens, artwork and various decorative accents.

3. Spain: Sophisticated and youthful

spanish.jpg

Image credits

The Spanish decor revolves around deployment of sophisticated furnishings and playful designer accessories such as vividly colored textiles and unique ceramic items. Outmoded sofas and armchairs paired with bold splashes of youthful tones and textured fabrics with creative patterns render a charming eccentric feel to homes on the Iberian Peninsula. A spot where the real world and fairytales collide, Spanish home decor is an endless source of inspiration for every crafty homeowner with a penchant for colorful experiments following in the footsteps of Picasso and Dali.

4. Mexico: New vintage

mexico.jpg

Image credits

Though gentrification is rapidly gaining momentum in Mexico, Latin homeowners have not conceded to forgo their artisan past and have resorted to the use of colorful vintage elements to complement the modern decor. The combinations of the antique and the contemporary in Mexican houses represent a creative deviation from the mainstream and open room for personal expression. Driven by imagination and supplemented by a handful of classic furnishings, Mexican homes represent probably the most intriguing trend on the global interior design scene, so make sure you give Latin look a serious thought if you want your living area to be an extension of your personality.

5. Japan: Green Interiors

japanese-home-decor-ideas-453.jpg

Image credits

Fueled by affection for nature, Japanese home decor is marked by a refreshing note and deployment of outdoor elements inside. To spite drab concrete and glass surfaces lurking at every urban corner, designers have managed to visually enrich the proverbially tiny Japanese home and compensate for the lack of garden space by abundance of green details such as potted plants, blossoms and dry flowers. This trend is perhaps to an extent aided by increased environmental awareness and preference for clean, organic choices in all aspects of life, from personal care and lifestyle products to spruced-up home designs and work environments. Either way, the Japanese decor is a true eye-candy!

6. France: Country Decor

GUESTBLOG1-e1446110758585.jpg

French country décor is both sophisticated and cozy. It is characterized by ruffles, shabby chic patterns, distressed woodwork and appealing combinations of neutral and bold colors. It has recently become very popular around the world.

If you like what you see, go ahead and transplant a piece of global décor into your home: after all, multiculturalism has been hip over the past few years, and the trend of merging different cultures into a style fit for each and every nation will probably stick around for another decade.

Whether we want to admit or not, colours’ are giving meanings to our lives – just try to imagine your surroundings being colourless and you’ll realize that colours really make our lives and give beauty to it. This especially applies to our living spaces, which now, when modern era completely changed our lifestyle, should become precious oasis where we seek for peace, relaxation and inspiration. So, if you wondered what hues your living nook should embrace, this is the list of unavoidable colours you should stick to this year:

blue wall with artistic paintings
Image source: pixabay.com

Light blue

Blue was always known as more cold than warm colour, but paler nuances combined with other colours have the power to soften the entire space and provide immense dose of tranquillity. Light blue spectra is this year light desirable more than ever, especially because it allows creating transparent, but still modern and comfy appearance, so dare to combine it with cool grey nuances.  If your home lacks relaxing spirit, paint your walls or floors into light blue with a hint of bolder grey.

Colourful walls
Image source: pixabay.com

Greek blue

Inspired by powerful Mediterranean ambient, Greek blue is instantly reviving and refreshing, and, as such, unavoidable for living rooms missing energy and richer look. This is the hue of oceans and clear skies and it’s great to be paired with contrasted vivid colours, especially with pink and grey.

Greek Blue
Image source: www.pinterest.com

Pastels, but frosty ones

Pastels are like eternal classic, so you can stay loyal to them as long as you opt for radiant nuances exuding a dose of frozen and neon shine. Frosty pastels are perfect for walls and prevailing interior pieces, but you should spice them with bright tones to avoid over – united look. So, pastels lovers, feel free to embrace Dandelion tea, secret blush (something like bleached purple), elusive blue and dreamscape grey, but vivid look fans can stick to mint green, light pink or aqua hues.

Earthy brown as perfect contrasting

Yes, 2015 colour trends are glorifying bright colours, but dark wood as well as muddy brown nuances are also welcome, most likely for spaces where bright elements should be more accentuated. Earth brown palette is best if applied on walls when furniture and decor come in dirty pink and white with eventual haze blue accents.

Pop of optimistic brights

Radiantly bright colours, such as bold and soft purple, natural orangey, plastic lime and sonic blue are the hits of the season, and great for adding energetic accents to conversation areas, especially dining room. However, use them carefully, best on shelving decor and some furniture parts, where you can reach impressively alluring ambient if pair them with neutral walls and floors.

Muddy warms

Rustic, muddy appearance comes back to our homes, especially to those spirited with vintage motifs and old-fangled decor. A space warming up was never so easy, so rely on subtly and kind of dirty nuances, preferably olive green, dusty mint, aubergine and rusty tones. Combine them with grey, ivory, and if you’re brave enough, dramatize things with bright decor accessorize.

Explosion of colours will definitely reach its maximum this year, both in fashion and interiors, telling us once again that life without colours is empty and not exciting at all.

What was called a “warehouse look” in layman terms, used to be seen only in enormous top-floor, attic apartments of those who usually could not afford anything else. However, times have changed and this brave and bold look can be found within the walls of some of the most expensive mansions all around the world. Modern architects prefer to expose, rather than hide; they combine neutral with utilitarian, wooden with metal, thus celebrating humble materials, showcasing amazing interplay between form and fiction. What used to be considered unfinished and cold is actually modern, innovative, unassuming and rather comfortable place you can proudly call home.

Image source: homeandecoration.com
Image source: homeandecoration.com

Exposed pipes and ducts

First signature element that every modern industrial look must contain are the pipes and ducts that are usually hidden behind the thick walls. It started as a necessity when people had to redecorate old warehouses and turn them into living spaces, and slowly became one of the most popular interior design ideas among those who seek out what appears to be “unfinished” look. It is also a smart choice for all-white spaces, as bright walls are a fabulous contrast to metal piping, providing even more light to the room, making it look visually bigger. Some people even incorporate old pipes into the furniture, so they use metal brackets and tubes to make one of a kind shelves, chairs, tables and even stairs.

Vintage furniture & accessories

Since what is usually concealed is already exposed, industrial design requires you to take a step further and experiment when it comes to furniture. But be careful, experimenting in this case does not refer to color and extravagant furniture pieces, but rather simple and neutral ones found at a local thrift shop. Old wooden coffee table surrounded with modern leather furniture, old TV turned into a retro bar or an old sawing machine you found at your grandmother’s attic, there is a place for everything that could in a way be called second-hand.

Effortless Lightning

Even though industrial spaces are usually quite bright, exposed electrical fixtures are still an important element to be incorporated in such homes. The options are numerous: you can choose to set up simple, old, iron triangular chandeliers above your kitchen island, or stretch cables across the entire ceiling just to have light bulbs hand in the middle of the room. Classical metal wall fixtures are also quite frequently found in industrially designed spaces that blend with white walls and exposed piping.

Cool Colors

Metal surfaces prevail together with wooden ones thus creating the perfect contrast, so in an industrially designed space you are bound to see metal ceiling in combination with wooden flooring, but sometimes even vice versa. Earthly green and brown, as well as many light neutral tones are the most popular color choices, with grey being the most prominent one, creating a bit uniform, but extremely chic and modern home. According to the Fantastic Services painters and decorators, the right color palette can make or break how your home looks and feel, especially if wall and ceiling painting is not done up to standard.

Basic Flooring

In enormous open-plan rooms, tiles and concrete are the most common choices for flooring. However, for those who prefer warmer colors, wooden and rubber ones are usually the alternative. But what is important is that the industrial design does not allow any rugs, even if you complain about the cold feet, and in that case, floor heating is your only option. Small portable mats are tolerated, but only on those places in your home that require you to stand for a longer period of time, like in the kitchen when washing the dishes. But only then. Once you are finished, they lose their purpose and must be removed for the sake of the amazing design.

Neutral tones, whites and grays, together with wooden floors, metal fixtures, pipes and mats are the signature elements of the industrial design. It gives your home a uniform look that still allows you to experiment with old and retro furniture, as well as add a couple of your own DIY projects. Show that you are bold and brave by exposing what is usually concealed, blending it all in one neutral earthly color.