by Bailey Shelton | photos by 360 Tour Designs
MODERN WOOD FINISHES
We’re seeing an embrace of natural materials in exposed beams, wood built-ins, and panel walls. Exposed wood pairs well with the quiet luxury of modern interiors, and invites home designers to lean on natural elements, i.e. picture windows and large house plants.
Good Pairings: pop art, geometric furniture, high pile rugs.
BUTLER’S PANTRIES
All the glorious built-in storage, plus a worktop and a full sink to tuck away your dishes while guests are still around. It’s obvious why butler pantries are on trend, especially for the super host looking to maximize their kitchen space.
THE EVOLVED FINISHED BASEMENT
In luxury builds, basements are becoming multifunctional entertainment spaces—cigar lounges, sunken home theatres, walkouts to the backyard, a second living area with an attraction. Unlike the almost cavernous finished basements of the early 00’s, everything here is built with intention.
MODERN, CONTEMPORARY FURNITURE
A style of furniture inspired by midcentury style is growing in popularity for residential use. Home owners are loving low slung, overstuffed, modular, and geometric furniture.
City Dwellers Rejoice: Multifunctional pieces are a particular favorite.
GREENHOUSES & CONSERVATORIES
We saw a gorgeous reclaimed glasshouse as part of last year’s St. Margaret’s Guild Decorators’ Show House and Gardens, which has been a healthy reminder of everything an indoor-outdoor space can offer. Year round sunshine, designated space for potted plants, and a flexible space that blends seamlessly with European and cottage style homes.
IN-LAW SUITE
The custom build market is granting us many gifts, one of which is a growth in guest spaces to include their own separate wing, complete with dine-in kitchen. This measure works well for aging in-laws who might have to extend their stay, but it’s also a nice-to-have option for hosting over the holidays.
AGING IN PLACE
As more and more homeowners set out on their building journey, many are looking at ways of making a home that will grow with them. Popular features include homework spaces that can be turned into reading nooks or desk areas, mobility bars and wider entries around bathrooms, single-story homes fit for aging knees, and residential elevators.
STATEMENT WALL SCONCES
As gold and brass finishes become more popular all around the house, we’re seeing more unique lighting in the form of wall sconces, especially in hallways, studies, and bedrooms.
These are great for introducing a bit of humor and dynamic shapes to rooms.
RECLAIMED OVER VINTAGE/ANTIQUE
We’ve noticed a trend toward creative reuse, especially in light fixtures and custom furniture. Keep an eye out for funky ceramics turned into lamps and vases, rehabbed old furniture retrofitted to modern tastes, Victorian and Medieval patterns appearing in modern contexts.
Keeping It Light – Friends Rory and Clay share the process behind their reclaimed vintage light fixtures via their Instagram series, Will It Lamp?
