32 Home Design Trends for 2019

Creamy cabinets, abstract kitchen islands, destination bathtubs, compact laundry hubs and more are in store for homes

If you’re looking to redecorate or renovate your home in 2019, you’ve come to the right place. We searched through Houzz data, browsed hundreds of home design photos, reread past articles and interviewed professional designers to bring you this collection of materials, colors and other home design ideas that you can expect to see a lot more of in 2019. Which will you bring home?

1. Full-tile backsplash feature walls. Attention-grabbing backsplash tile is nothing new in well-designed kitchens. We’ve seen colorful geometric and quirky patterns show up in a lot of kitchens for years now.But what many professionals are seeing more of lately is an interest in taking the tile from countertop to ceiling, including behind floating shelves and flanking range hoods, to create a striking feature wall.

This idea aligns with some broader trends as well. The 2018 Houzz Kitchen Trends Study shows that half of homeowners are opening up their kitchens to interior spaces, and that the most popular kitchen layout is the L-shape. This openness means the kitchen is always on display and therefore in need of a good focal point. A full-tile feature wall draws your eye in, whether through shimmer and texture with something like a simple white subway tile or through bold color and pattern as with a Moroccan design.

It’s also a relatively cost-effective way to achieve a stunning effect. Buying an extra several square feet of tile won’t break the budget, but it looks high-end.

2. Window walls. Cabinet design has become much more efficient in recent years. Deep drawers on perimeter and base cabinets that bring items at the back of the cabinets out into the open means that fewer kitchen cabinets are needed overall. In response, designers and homeowners have shifted to removing upper cabinets on at least one kitchen wall, often to create an expansive window wall that can deliver views and lots of natural light.

“This makes the kitchen more open and expansive,” designer Jennifer Ott says. “It feels less top-heavy. To make up for the lost storage space, walk-in pantries or pantry walls, in which the cabinets span the floor to ceiling, are extremely popular. With upper wall cabinets out of the way, homeowners can put in a line of pendant lighting to light their countertop surfaces in lieu of undercabinet lighting.”

3. Wood on wood (on wood). Many of the most popular kitchen photos in 2018 featured lots of wood, and it’s easy to see why. Wood adds loads of warmth and character, and it pairs well with whites and grays, two of the most popular colors for kitchen cabinets and walls.

Ott says she’s seeing an increase in interest for medium-tone woods rather than super dark or light ones. Wood also adds charm that aligns with the trend toward farmhouse style, which has been gaining in popularity every year for the past three years, according to the recent Houzz kitchen trends report.

Upscale Construction

Gorgeous walnut wood cabinets and ceiling create a soothing, inviting atmosphere in this Healdsburg, California, kitchen by Claudia Juestel of Adeeni Design Group and Sutro Architects. Meanwhile, the white countertops and backsplash; steel countertop, shelf and appliances; and polished concrete floor cool things down.

4. Cream-colored cabinets. White is still the top choice for cabinet color, according to the Houzz kitchen report, but no two whites are created equal. Some paint companies offer more than 150 white paints — how do you choose?

Many homeowners are moving away from the bright, stark whites and embracing off-whites that feel warmer and cozier, like Skimming Stone by Farrow & Ball, shown here in a Boston kitchen by Lisa Tharp Design.

Creamy cabinets paired with other warm finishes like wood and brass and blue-gray tile create a calm and serene feel that works well with transitional and farmhouse-inspired styles, the two most popular kitchen styles.

5. Quartz countertops. Engineered quartz was finally crowned the most popular countertop material in 2018 following a three-year decline in granite, according to Houzz research.

The natural stone and resin material is incredibly durable and can visually mimic the look of more expensive and maintenance-heavy materials like marble and slate.

In fact, quartz is so popular that even risings costs associated with trade tariffs haven’t dissuaded homeowners, who save elsewhere in their remodeling budgets in order to still get quartz countertops. “Prices for quartz that either was made in China or routed through China are now seeing 20 percent markups to make up the increased purchase price,” designer Carl Mattison says. “I find in my world people are relying on me, the designer, to help offset costs so they can still get what they want.”

Quartz vs. Granite: The Battle of the Countertops

6. Emerald and deep teal islands. As you’ll see later in this article, darker, moodier colors seem to be catching on. Mattison sees a lot of emerald and deep teal being used in kitchens, especially for islands, like the Deep Sea Dive by Sherwin-Williams on the island in this St. Louis kitchen by Jennifer Chapman Designs.

“The perimeter cabinetry can be a neutral from white to gray and the island can bring a pop of color to the space,” Mattison says. “By doing only the island a color, people can see the color without it being overwhelming.”

7. A new take on white subway tile backsplashes. A backsplash in standard white 3-by-6-inch subway tile is a classic look that works in almost any style of kitchen. But as with everything that peaks in popularity, design fatigue can set in and designers and homeowners start looking for an alternative while sticking with the freshness of white tile.

Larger-format tiles in herringbone, chevron or stacked patterns — anything other than the traditional offset brick pattern — gives the same crisp look but with a bit more nuance and interest, without taking a huge design risk. “With the larger size, the grout lines are minimized, and a clean, fresh take on the old is just what people are looking for,” Mattison says.

Ott is seeing even more of a departure from standard rectangular tile. “Sharp, linear geometric patterns are being nudged aside by softer, curvier, abstract organic patterns and nature motifs,” she says.

The circle-pattern tile in this Charlotte, North Carolina, kitchen by Walker Woodworkingand Greenbrook Design Center is a good example.

Love a White Backsplash but Not Subway Tile? Try One of These

8. Custom drawer inserts in an unexpected color or stain. Designers often suggest that homeowners splurge on the areas they interact with the most. Cabinet hardware is a good example, because you’ll be touching the handles or pulls several times a day. But designer Sarah Robertson likes to go a bit further.

She often encourages clients to go with a custom drawer insert in an unexpected color or stain, different than what’s on the cabinet drawer exterior. Shown here inside her own kitchen are custom stained walnut drawer inserts. “These are something I really try to talk clients into doing,” Robertson says. “You don’t think about how often drawers are open in the kitchen. You’re in and out of them all the time. It’s such a beautiful touch to have inside drawers.”

9. Kitchens that completely open to the outdoors. A single door connecting a kitchen to an outdoor area doesn’t cut it anymore. What homeowners want is a blurring of inside and out. Large sliding and collapsible doors give that feeling and help increase living space.

10. Countertop cabinets. A designer’s kitchen is always a good place to spot great design ideas. Going back to Robertson’s personal kitchen, you’ll see two countertop cabinets in each corner flanking the sink.

Corners in kitchens often go unused because they’re difficult to reach and wind up being dead space. A tall cabinet with a drawer on the bottom creates a smart storage opportunity for quick-grab items like spices, oils and snacks.

11. Black is back. OK, it’s not like black ever went away, it’s just that we’re finding homeowners are more open to really taking a chance on embracing a heavy dose of the dramatic color in their kitchens.

Large swaths of black range hoods, island accent colors and even full-on all-black cabinetry has been popping up a lot lately. Many of the most popular kitchen photosuploaded to Houzz in 2018 featured black or dark cabinets.

Pair black cabinets with white walls, backsplash and countertops for a dynamic, sophisticated and high-contrast look.

Black’s reemergence is probably a reaction against all the whites and bright colors that have been popular for so long, Ott says. But there’s also a confidence element at play. Ask homeowners to imagine black cabinets in their kitchens and they might think you’re crazy. But show them a stunning photo and they might reconsider.

As homeowners see photos on sites like Houzz that show big doses of black cabinets or painted millwork, and as they work with professional designers and color consultants who tout black’s design strengths, they become more confident that they can pull off this elegant, luxurious look in their own home.

Karen Dubinsky of Marcia Moore Design says she used photos she found on Houzz to persuade her clients to go with all-black cabinets and trim in the St. Louis kitchen shown here.

Model Remodel

12. Abstract island shapes. One of the most popular articles of the year on Houzz was about island shapes you might not have thought of. That might be surprising, considering that the majority of islands you see tend to be rectangular. But that just doesn’t work for every kitchen layout.

Modifying the shape into something more free-form can open up circulation paths and create more work and storage space.

13. Gray, white and wood. While the aforementioned kitchen trends will certainly show up again and again in 2019, it’s worth looking at what’s likely to be the most dominant kitchen trend. This photo of a Boston space by Hawthorn Builders is a good example of the type of kitchen you’re likely to see more of in the coming year.

This kitchen combines almost every top trend from the recent Houzz kitchen report: an L-shaped layout, transitional style, white Shaker-style cabinets, white quartz countertops, gray walls, a white backsplash, wood floors and stainless steel appliances.

Bathrooms

14. Destination bathtubs. There’s been a lot of debate over the years over whether you should keep a bathtub when remodeling your bathroom. But it’s clear that those who enjoy taking baths really enjoy taking baths. Couple that with people spending more to increase the size of their bathrooms and create a spa-like environment and you’ve got some homeowners who aren’t just keeping the tub, they’re celebrating it.

The ever-popular freestanding tub is now more like a free-range tub, out in its own pasture, creating a destination all its own, with a great view and other accessories to turn bathing into a significant event.

If you’ve got the room, it’s worth considering putting a freestanding tub off on its own. Most people don’t use their bathtub every day, so keeping it out of the more frequent daily path from shower to vanity makes sense.

This destination tub by 20|20 Builders looks like you’d need a plane ticket to Bali just to have a soak. But all the San Francisco homeowners have to do is walk out their bathroom door.

15. Natural wood vanities.Bathrooms can often look and feel cold with all that tile, glass and metal. Wood vanities help bring a large dose of warmth. And while wooden vanities aren’t new, what’s catching on is a turn away from dark stained and lacquered vanities — which hide things like grain pattern and knots — toward reclaimed wood or light wood with clear stains that celebrate the details of the grain.

Here, a reclaimed-hemlock vanity stuns in a Boston bathroom by Realm Interiors.

16. Electric fireplaces. Going back to the destination tub and the idea of creating a spa-like environment in the bathroom, is there anything more luxurious to go with a good soak than flickering flames from a fireplace? 

Electric fireplace inserts are relatively low-cost and easy to install, so they can be a worthwhile investment for all the pampering they afford.

17. Easy-reach shower controls. Reaching in to turn on the shower in the morning and getting hit with a cold blast of water is no way to start the day.

Relocating the shower controls to an opposite wall during a remodel solves that problem. You can see in this shower by designer Bronwyn Poole how the controls are on the wall opposite where you enter, far from the shower spray to the left.

Talk to your designer and builder about the additional cost that might come from adding the extra plumbing to get this feature.

18. Painted shiplap. White shiplap has certainly been having a moment in recent years. And while its popularity isn’t necessarily waning, its look is changing. Painted shiplap, usually in grays or dark blues, is showing up a lot. It’s a great look for bathrooms because it adds texture, dimension and character in a room that can often feel sterile.

19. Moroccan tile floors. Moroccan-patterned tile has been a popular choice for kitchen backsplashes and fireplace surrounds for years now. Increasingly, though, it’s showing up in large swaths as bathroom flooring. You get the clean feel of tile with all the color and style of a bold rug.

In this bathroom by designers Alexandria Hubbard and MJ Englert of Case Design/Remodeling, concrete tiles with various Moroccan-inspired patterns read as one pattern, and correspond with a shower niche.

Shop for Moroccan-inspired tile

Houzz contributing writer Becky Harris based her entire bathroom redesign, shown here, on the floor tile. “Once I found this tile, most of my plans revolved around it,” she says. “Warm gray, light blue-gray, charcoal gray, black and white and powdery blue came into play in my color palette.”

20. Drying station. Few things convey a sense of luxury in a bathroom more than a designated drying station, as evident in this space designed by Howell Custom Building Group and Leana Porter of Shutter Dog Design.

The station features an inset white oak drainable drying platform, a linen closet made of custom maple in a driftwood stain, a built-in bench and a skylight.

21. No-glass showers. Glass shower enclosures are great for controlling water spray while keeping an open and airy feel. But cleaning such enclosures is no day at the spa.

If you’ve got the room, you can create a completely open shower area like the one in this Tiburon, California, bathroom by Schneider Design Associates. A small curb and partial wall offset a large marble-tiled wet area with enough room for multiple wall-mounted shower heads, a rain shower head and a freestanding tub.

Living Rooms

22. Spanish style. Implementing Spanish-inspired style and other Mediterranean influences in a living room will automatically check a lot of the boxes on many homeowners’ wish lists. Light, airy, relaxing, casual, comfortable — these are all elements that come naturally with the style.

Creamy white plaster walls, linen upholstery, a collected look, wrought iron light fixtures, large fireplaces and natural wood architectural elements like ceiling beams define this approachable look.

In this popular living room photo uploaded to Houzz in 2018, designer Michael Ostrow of Grace Home Furnishings used rich coffered ceilings, an iron chandelier, a jute rug on tile floors, a pronounced fireplace and stately chairs mixed with laid-back sofas to create a breezy atmosphere in Palm Springs, California.

Large wood beams and corbels, a soaring ceiling, oversize fireplace and mantel, antiques and inviting furniture feature in this Spanish-influenced living room by Chris Hutchens of Summer Classics.

23. Mix of fabrics. “After years of iconic midcentury modern furniture being all the rage, there’s a shift toward softer, more comfortable pieces that have a ‘lived in’ vibe,” Ott says.

One way designers and homeowners are embracing this is by mixing various fabrics and patterns for a generous collection of textures and sheens.

This New York living room by Studio Aubergine Interior Design features a mix of leather and upholstery, a deep-pile rug and textured wallpaper behind the display shelves.

In this home built by David Weekley Homes, the living room offers a good mix of textures and sheens. There’s the smoothness of the suede chairs and linen sofa and the textured surfaces of the sofa pillows and jute rug. Add in the wood trunk and side table, a leather stool and drapery and it’s a winning combination.

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24. Custom wood wall treatments. No, this isn’t the wood panel wall look of yesteryear. Rather, many designers are creating custom wood feature walls as a way to add warmth and texture. Mattison had the wall shown here handcrafted out of tongue-and-groove flooring, with the “tongue” removed.

With other projects he’s nailed up 1-by-2-inch wood strips directly to the wall, and has played around with creating diagonal or herringbone patterns or other style treatments. “Having a custom wall or walls in any home easily gives it a higher-end feel,” he says.

25. Glass-and-steel room dividers and interior doors.Glass and steel have been popular materials in recent years for front doors and shower enclosures. But good ideas spread quickly.

Expect to see a lot more glass-and-steel dividers and doors between interior rooms. They create an open feel and allow light to pass between rooms while still providing some privacy and noise control. Plus, they just look cool, adding a stylish graphic element or contrasting color to otherwise white walls.

Elegant steel-and-glass doors on the left separate this living room by Christine Kimberlee Designs from an adjoining room.

Dining Nooks
26. Stand-alone furniture benches. Built-in bench seating in a dining nook off a kitchen is highly prized for its comfiness and storage. But when you can’t afford the built-in approach, or it’s not practical, consider a stand-alone furniture bench, as designer Amy Storm of Designstorms did in this Chicago kitchen.

A standalone furniture bench turns almost any dining spot into more of a lounge area, and you could tuck a few baskets underneath to hold blankets, games, place settings and more.

Laundry Rooms
Compact laundry stations. Don’t think you need a full-on dedicated room for doing laundry. Many designers have created super-efficient laundry areas in spaces the size of a hallway closet.Here, designer Janie Hungerfordtucked a laundry station into a closet-size nook of custom millwork in a light oak stain. It includes dog-print wallpaper (Best in Show by Osborne & Little), graphite-colored appliances, a hanging rod and an ironing board on the door.

Here, Carly Nemtean and Lauren Poetker of Carriage Lane Design-Build put a laundry station behind sliding pocket doors and added fun wallpaper, a folding countertop and rods for hanging and drying clothes.

Exteriors
28. White board and batten. The modern farmhouse look isn’t just sweeping through interiors. Exteriors are also seeing some of that throwback love. Five out of the 10 most popular exterior photos uploaded to Houzz in 2018 featured white board-and-batten siding.A board-and-batten method of construction delivers a charming, homey look and adds texture and interest to what might otherwise be a boring flat facade. And white makes a home pop against any landscape.

Color

29. Dark and moody. As mentioned earlier with kitchen cabinets, the dark side is expanding its force. “There’s been a sharp turn toward deeper, darker, moodier shades such as navy, black and forest greens,” Ott says. “It’s a reaction against all the whites and brights that have been popular for so long. Colors swing in and out of popularity, so it’s darker, moodier colors’ turn in the spotlight.”

30. Ceiling, walls and trim the same color. Ott says accent walls are pretty much over. Instead, many homeowners are taking the now-popular moody colors and applying them to every available surface — walls, trim, ceiling — as shown here and in the previous photo. “The effect is a cozier feeling, and gives a more finished result rather than the more jolting effect of just one feature wall,” Ott says.

Home Tech

31. Voice-assisted appliances. Indeed, the robots are here, and more are coming, whether we like it or not. Home tech is a tricky thing. Everyone seems to like the idea of the convenience promised by more technology in the home, but many people find a headache where there should be relief.

Still, voice assistants like Alexa and Google Home seem to be here to stay. Houzz research shows that home assistants in kitchens, for example, increased in 2018 compared with 2017. And with the devices showing up in more and more homes, more appliances that integrate with voice assistants will become more prevalent.

In 2018, for example, Amazon launched its own microwave, seen here. The appliance connects with an Amazon Echo and allows you to ask Alexa, the company’s voice assistant, to “reheat, defrost or microwave your desired cook time and power level.” Whether or not that’s a feature you think you need in your kitchen is up to you.

32. Video chat. In October 2018, Facebook announced Portal, a device with a 12-megapixel camera on the front that allows you to video-chat with your Facebook friends. Put it on your countertop or in your living room and you can make a video call with anyone who has Facebook Messenger — they don’t also need a Portal.

It’s a nifty feature that feels like something sci-fi has promised us for a long time. The timing, however, isn’t great. With all the security and misuse-of-data issues now dogging Facebook, some homeowners may think twice about giving the company a literal peek into their homes. Nevertheless, die-hard early adopters will make this something you can expect to see in homes in 2019.

French Interior Design Ideas

This beautiful French style home is located in the heart of West Texas. The expansive single story 4,300 square foot floor plan was designed by Brit Jones Interiors and architect Tyler Gentry, of 17 Services. It was built by Scott Lane Homes.

You are immediately greeted with a stunning staircase leading you into a foyer filled with unique and one-of-a-kind french antiques. The interiors also feature a neutral color palate with pops of soft blue and traditional furniture styles.

I haven’t seen a tailored home like this one in some time and I really think you guys will love it as much as I do.

This French-style home exudes timeless architectural details and plenty of curb-appeal.

The home features a foyer, dining, living, kitchen, den, 4 bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms and 2 half baths, den, playroom, private office, large mudroom with wrapping room, courtyard and expansive lawn in front and back.

 Shutters

Shutters are rough cedar painted in Annie Sloan Duck Egg Blue and made to look weathered with sand paper. The homeowner painted them herself!

Front Door

Black steel and glass front doors are custom made – 10 foot tall.

Brick

Exterior Brick: Mangum Brick in Country French color with white mortar.

Stucco

Instead of regular stucco the homeonwer did a “brick slurry” where they did the stucco over the brick in a hand finish instead of a sprayed finish. Color is a custom tan finish.

Trim Color

Dark Exterior Trim Paint Color: Sherwin Williams Seal Skin.

Roof

Roof is Tamko Thunderstorm Grey.

Windows

Windows are Pella Aluminum clad in bronze.

Stone

Exterior stone is Castlerock stone in a mix of cream and white with white mortar.

Lighting

Front Lanterns are Troy Larchmont Lanterns in hand forged iron in Age Pewter finish.

Welcome Home!

The black steel double doors open to a stunning French foyer.

Foyer Paint Color

White French Interior Paint Color: Sherwin Williams Alabaster.

Chandelier: Aidan Gray

Sconces: Aidan Gray

Blue Chair

The blue foyer chair is a French antique.

Antique Door

The barn door in the foyer is a true antique door from France.

Get the Look:

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Drapery

The window coverings are custom drapes and shades from Susan Cannon at Budget Blinds. They are drapes on French radius rods with motorized wove. Brittany, the homeowner, loves her them!

Chairs and ottoman are from Wisteria.

Similar Side Table: here .

Details

Foyer drapes are a French Blue with a custom embroidered banding on a French rod.

Dream Kitchen & Dining Room

This French-country kitchen and dining room are full of beauty and character.

Dining table and bench are Classic Home Furniture. Similar here (table & bench).

Dining Chairs

Wingback Dining Chair: Wayfair

Side Chairs: World Market. Similar here, here & here.

Similar Vase: here (large).

Kitchen

Isn’t this one of the most beautiful French kitchens you have ever seen?! Its design and choice of materials are impeccable.

Backsplash

The herringbone backsplash is reclaimed bricks from a building in Chicago. The homeowner took it all the way up the wall to make it more dramatic with the custom cast stone vent hood.

Cabinet pulls can be found here.

Lighting

Kitchen Lighting: Feiss.

Kitchen Hood

Kitchen vent hood is sprayed cast stone material that is custom-made in place.

Countertop

Kitchen countertop is Honed Arabescato Marble.

Similar Counterstools: here, here, here & here.

Get the Look:

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Hardware

Kitchen Hardware: Jeffrey Alexander Pulls and the Durham knobs for perimeter.

Cabinetry

Cabinets are Pine, shaker style cabinet door with a beveled edge. Cabinet paint color is Sherwin Williams Alabaster.

Kitchen Sink: Rohl.

Appliance Pull: Here.

Faucet

Kitchen Faucet: Danze Opulence Satin Nickel.

Hardwood

Hardwood Flooring: Hill Country Innovations Coastal Dunes Collection in color Cape Cod.

Similar Plaid Pillows: Here & Here.

Kitchen Pantry Cabinet Color

Paint Color: Uncertain Gray by Sherwin Williams.

Lighting

Industrial Farmhouse Lighting: Lighting is Hammered Copper one light pendant from Nebraska Furniture. Similar here.

Beams

The kitchen ceiling features stained wood grid ceiling.

Arch

A brick archway divides the kitchen area from the living room.

Living Room Ceiling

The living room features cathedral ceiling with beam.

Chandelier: Quorum.

Layout

The picture above gives us an idea of the layout; arches lead to foyer, next to a sitting area, dining room, kitchen and pantry on far left (by the refrigerator).

Patio Door

A large slide door with transoms opens to the patio.

Paint Color & Furniture

Wall & Trim Color: Alabaster by Sherwin Williams SW 7008.

Sofas are Bernhardt.

Chairs are Lee Furniture.

Get the Look:

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Powder Room

Countertop is Honed Arabescato Marble.

Cabinet Paint Color

Cabinet Color: Pewter Tankard Sherwin Williams.

Hardware: Anthropologie.

Grey Den

This rustic den features reclaimed wood ceiling and brick flooring. Breathtaking!

Den sofa is Mayo Furniture.

Ceiling Details

Note from the Designer: “The ceiling in the den is reclaimed barn wood beams over regular cedar planks that my husband distressed himself with nails, chains, and hammers”. – Brittany Jones.

Reading Nook Lighting

Reading Nook Lighting: Savoy House.

Den chairs are Century Furniture. Similar here, here & here.

Brick Flooring

Brick Flooring: Reclaimed bricks from an old building in Chicago. The designer/homeowner found the bricks from a vendor in Waco, Texas who sources the brick directly from a brick cutter in Chicago.

Laundry Room

The laundry room also features brick flooring.

Countertop: Polished “Shadow” Quartzite.

Hardware: Jeffrey Alexander.

Daughter’s Bedroom

The color palette of this bedroom is a dream!

Bedding

Bedding is a mix of Pottery Barn, and Bella Notte.

Chandelier

White Chandelier: Home Depot gold chandelier that the designer redid with chalk paint and added pearl strands from her wedding. Similar here.

Window

Window Treatment: Custom blush velvet cornice, white sheer drapes over a white and cream woven wood shades.

Bathroom Paint Color

Best White: Sherwin Williams SW 7008 Alabaster.

Lighting: Feiss.

Bathroom Tray Decor

Perfection!

Mirror & Sconces

Bathroom Mirror: similar here.

Sconces: Pottery Barn.

Bathroom Hardware

Bathroom Cabinet Hardware: Top Knobs.

French Master Bedroom

Bedding is RH and Ballard Designs.

Window Treatment: Woven wood shades under white linen drapes.

Chandelier

Chandelier is Regina Andrew.

Paint Color

Trim and wall color is Sherwin Williams Alabaster.

Barn Door

The barn door is a custom designed door from a local carpenter and painted by the designer in Annie Sloan – custom mix of Duck Egg Blue, Old White, French Linen, and Coco.

Master Bathroom

Bathroom Faucet: Danze.

Countertop: Polished Arabescato Marble.

Cabinet Hardware

Bathroom Cabinet Hardware: Restoration Hardware.

Bathroom Chandelier

Terracotta Ballerina 6 light chandelier.

 Neutral Hues

How stunning is this bathroom? Notice the wall tile and the linen drapes.

Tub Surround Tile: Handmade white subway tile with a polished white finish. Similar here.

Master Bathroom Floor: Emser Tile Pietre Del Nord in color Maine with matte finish.

Interior Design & Photography: Brit Jones Interiors ( Instagram).

Inspiring Color Palette

Timeless Paint Colors: Sherwin Williams Alabaster. Benjamin Moore Bird’s Egg. Sherwin Williams Agreeable Gray. Sherwin Williams Watery. Sherwin-Williams Silver Strand. Benjamin Moore White Sand.

 

2018 Interior Design Trends

Get the lowdown on the colors, materials and other design decisions gaining steam now

Every year brings more options for materials, finishes and ideas to bring into our interiors. If you’re ready to try something new, consider the following design trends. We searched through Houzz data, popular photos and articles, and talked to designers for this snapshot of 22 things you’re likely to see more of in 2018.

Crisp Architects

1. Dedicated chopping and baking stations. Regular countertop height is fine for those casual weekly meals. But for larger, more involved recipes that require a lot of chopping, rolling or other strenuous maneuvers, a lower countertop is more ideal. That’s why some avid home cooks are gravitating toward dedicated chopping and baking stations that are often a continuation of a larger, standard-height island.

See how to create a dedicated baking station

2. Matte black finishes. Last year, satin brass made its takeover of kitchens. This year, look out for matte black in bathrooms as well as kitchens. Homeowners looking for a statement-making look that’s contemporary and complements a variety of materials and styles are embracing this tough, versatile finish. Companies like Moen, whose matte black finish is shown here, are expanding their products to include more options in the durable finish.

Find matte black hardware

Jeffrey Dungan Architects

3. More color in kitchens. White will always be a classic palette for kitchens, as the annual Houzz kitchen trends study continues to show. But its increased popularity means there’s going to be some all-white-kitchen fatigue as homeowners look for ways to personalize their space. So while white kitchens aren’t even close to going away, expect to see a rise in color for the kitchen, especially other neutrals like gray and blue. Plus, warm wood tones are becoming a popular replacement for painted cabinets, leading to sophisticated, rich palettes.

3 Modern Kitchens That Rock Warm Wood Cabinets

4. Antibacterial materials. Imagine a countertop that helps take care of that salmonella bacteria for you after preparing chicken for dinner. That’s the idea behind several materials presented at the International Exhibition of Ceramic Tile and Bathroom Furnishings (CERSAIE) in Italy back in September.

The new K-Life technology incorporated into Porcelanosa’s Krion solid surface not only is antibacterial but also eliminates chemicals that come into contact with it, as well as purifies the surrounding air.

How does it accomplish this? Through a process called photocatalysis, which uses a semiconductor in the surface to enhance a reaction to light, killing bacteria and breaking up pollutants.

IdeaGroup’s Disenia also showcased a similar product at CERSAIE. Its new shower gaskets have an antibacterial treatment.

Meanwhile, Bataform, by Cermica Globo, is an antimicrobial treatment that has been shown to reduce germs and bacteria on surfaces.

DeGraw & DeHaan Architects

5. Dining tables in the kitchen. Not everyone is in favor of a big island, especially for eating family meals. Who wants to face the same direction all the time, as in a diner? Many homes, especially those with smaller kitchens, are reconsidering a traditional dining table in place of an island.

Browse dining tables

Interiors by Odette Design Group

This dining table features a quartz top that can be used like an island countertop as needed.

Cotto d’Este

6. Wallpaper-like tile. Several fascinating tile styles captured the attention of visitors at CERSAIE. There’s new tile that looks like wood, concrete, resin, fabric and even wallpaper. The latter is prized for offering the elaborate pattern look of modern-day wallpapers while being durable enough to wipe down with a sponge and detergent.

Annie Hall Interiors

7. Glass insert for tub-shower combos. Many still love their shower curtains, but partial glass dividers are coming on strong. Glass shower panels keep compact spaces airy and open, allowing a clear view to a statement shower tile or more natural light.

See our guide on getting a glass insert

8. Concrete accents. Concrete has always been a popular material choice, but don’t be surprised to see it in more unexpected ways, such as in furniture, decorative accessories, wallcoverings, countertops and tile. “My clients are expressing a desire to use materials in unusual ways,” says designer and Houzz Contributor Jennifer Ott. “Concrete is as popular as ever, but it’s showing up in unexpected places such as in furniture, decorative accessories and even as concrete-look wallcoverings.”

Designer Yanic Simard agrees. “The humble material and its comforting cool tones mixed with light linen and pearl grays add relaxed air to any space,” he says.

And the concrete look is carrying over into other materials as well. The stoneware tiles shown here (Beton Chic from Ricchetti’s Manifattura del Duca range) mimic the texture of concrete and come in a variety of colors.

Alexandra Crafton

9. Bold-colored sofas. A daring sofa color tackles two common design challenges: adding color and creating a focal point. If you feel like your living room is lacking in either of these areas, consider taking your sofa color up a notch. Blue, pink and green are all great places to start.

See more daring sofa colors

Studio Revolution

10. Casual and calm modern bedrooms. You can’t decorate your way to a good night’s sleep. In other words, if you’re looking for a calm, relaxing bedroom — ideal for a restful night — you don’t want the space dripping with ornate decor, busy patterns or eye-opening color. Instead, a pared down, verging-on-minimalist look that incorporates soothing neutrals, soft fabrics and simple, functional pieces is the direction homeowners are heading.

See the 20 Most Popular Bedrooms of 2017

Fluidesign Studio

11. Defining kitchens in open floor plans. Every time a bell rings, an interior wall gets knocked down. OK, maybe not that frequently but it seems like the open floor plan has dominated homes in recent years, and not all homeowners love it. And some are going the other way, seeking some sort of delineation of space, such as in the photo shown here. A half wall of cabinetry creates a semi-closed space between the kitchen and living room.

See more semi-open kitchens

Sutro Architects

Other homeowners are embracing a material palette to offset a kitchen area from an open living space, as shown here.

Carl Mattison Design

12. Millwork feature walls and detailing. Shiplap, millwork panels and reclaimed wood boards have been around for a while now. But with affordable big box store options and the relative ease with which the average homeowner is able to DIY these materials as accents, expect to see this trend to continue for some time, especially as bedroom feature walls.

13. Hidden range hoods. A statement range hood can make an ideal focal point in a kitchen. But in more compact spaces, the last thing you may want is another bulky appliance. Instead, consider hiding a hood behind some elegant cabinetry, as was done in this Australian kitchen. Coupled with under-cabinet outlets, the hidden appliance allows the small amount of backsplash to appear large, streamlined and elegant.

See more on hidden range hoods

Murphy Deesign

14. Mixing metals, texture and sheen. “People are mixing metallic elements and are paying more and more attention to sheen and texture,” Ott says. Think shiny brass mixed with matte black steel, or a honed countertop with matte tile backsplash.

Sheffield Sustainable Kitchens

15. Countertop details. Sure, it’s important to focus on choosing the right countertop material for your needs, but don’t stop there. There are a bevy of options to ratchet up the look and function of your countertop. Here, cut grooves in butcher block create a drainage for wet dishes and other scenarios.

Pros and cons of popular countertop materials

Sheila Mayden Interiors

And here, a chiseled edge completely changes the look and feel of this kitchen.

Designstorms LLC

16. Trough or bucket sinks. These deep, wide and durable sinks are great for hardworking laundry rooms and busy kids bathrooms. And their rise dovetails nicely with the expected continued prevalence of a quieted-down modern farmhouse style.

15 Modern-Rustic Farmhouses Celebrate Simple Pleasures

Jamie Keskin Design

17. Fish-scale pattern backsplash. If you’ve grown bored of subway tile but still want something simple and classic, check out a scalloped or fish-scale pattern. The look offers more movement, and a bit more interest, than rectangular tile but is still versatile enough to work with almost any kitchen style.

See more photos of fish-scale tile in design

Sea Pointe Construction

18. Rich colors. Warm grays with rich, earthy shades will edge out cooler neutrals for a more sumptuous look. “I’m seeing a move toward warm grays and rich, earthy shades of camel, rust, tobacco and brown-blacks,” Ott says.

Amanda Kirkpatrick Photography

Simard says rich colors like red — especially for sofas — can add a sense of passion, while something like a burnt yellow offers some interesting, unexpected flavor.

Hill Farm Furniture Ltd

19. Vintage lighting. Pros are reporting more interest in vintage-style fixtures, such as aged copper pendant lights. “There’s a huge focus on lighting right now, especially vintage pieces, which is also considered to be a great art solution,” Simard says.

Browse copper pendant lights

Diskin Designs

20. Dedicated broom closets. It takes a lot to keep a home looking clean: brooms, brushes, mops, dusters, Swiffers, cleaning supplies. And finding space to keep these things organized while always at the ready shouldn’t be an afterthought.

That’s why homeowners are gravitating toward a dedicated broom closet or cabinet. Clever rollouts and design tactics that make use of slim spaces, such as the inches between the side of a fridge and a wall, can turn out highly functional storage units for cleaning tools.

See more space-saving broom closets

eleven11DESIGN

21. Florals make a comeback. This popular print is getting a revival and a bit of an update, say Ott and Simard. Forget low-energy patterns, and think botanical references in high-contrast colors and oversize blooms. “I’m seeing florals making a comeback,” but not the traditional variety, Ott says. “These are bold, graphic floral prints in high-contrast colors such as black and white or teal and gold.”

Michael J Cox

22. Fewer white or stainless-steel sinks. White and stainless steel sinks have had their day, says designer Ott. Expect more concrete, stone, copper and granite composite sinks in darker hues of gray, bronze or black.

Thank you Houzz and

Mitchell Parker January 1, 2018 for the great content!!!

Discover 100 of the Most Beautiful French Homes on Houzz

We mark Bastille Day with a journey through a wide-ranging collection of gorgeous French homes and gardens

 July 14 is Bastille Day in France. The holiday, instituted in 1880 during the time of the nation’s Third Republic, marks the 1789 storming of the Bastille prison during the French Revolution, an event that symbolized the end of absolute monarchy. Bastille Day also commemorates the Fête de la Fédération, a national festival held in 1790 to celebrate the unity of the nation and the drafting of the early stages of the constitution the previous year.

What better occasion to embark on a tour of French architecture and decor? On the itinerary are elegant Haussmannian apartments, the charms of Provence, lofts brimming with character and traditional country houses. From Lyon to Paris, Bordeaux to Nice, and even to the nation’s overseas territories, we look at incredibly rich styles, surprising choices and clever ideas. Don’t forget to tell us which of the photos is your favorite!

Melian Randolph

1. Biarritz. See the rest of this home

d.mesure – Elodie Sire

2. Normandy. See more of this country home

Catherine Sandin

3. Versailles, Yvelines. See more photos and read about this weekend retreat

MEERO

4. Argenteuil, Val-d’Oise. Tour this loft outside Paris

Sarah Lavoine – Studio d’architecture d’intérieur

5. Paris. See more of this chic apartment

François Primault architecte

6. Moirax, Lot-et-Garonne. Step inside this contemporary home

Agence Glenn Medioni

7. Paris. See more of this petite apartment

Damien Carreres

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8. Méribel, Savoie. Tour this rustic ski chalet

frederique legon pyra architecte

9. Var. See more of this seaside villa

Marion Alberge Décoration

10. Paris. See the modern decor of this Haussmannian apartment

Nous Studio

11. Trouville-sur-Mer, Normandy. See more of this award-winning design

Ml-h design

12. Montpellier, Hérault. Step inside this renovated mill

am Alexandra Magne

13. Paris. See more of this duplex with industrial style

SARL ARCHITECTONIK

14. Toiny, St. Barts. Get a taste of island life at this villa

Aurélien Vivier

15. Lyon. Peruse this plant-filled home

Ciel Atelier d’Architecture

16. Lake Annecy, Haute-Savoie. See more of this wine cave near the Swiss border

17. Paris. See the rest of this luxe apartment

Laurent Guillaud-Lozanne Architecte DPLG

18. Lyon. Tour this contemporary home

Jours & Nuits

19. Marseille. View this interior designer’s home

Au50bis

20. Bordeaux. See more of this historical renovation

Dorner Design

21. Paris. Discover this apartment’s stylish simplicity

Jennifer Decaux

22. Paris. Behold the power of home staging

Olivier Chabaud Architecte

23.Villennes-sur-Seine, Yvelines. See more of this light-filled home

ATELIER FB

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24. Paris. Visit this apartment of an art collector

nesso

25. Var. See more of this contemporary villa

Agence MORVANT & MOINGEON Paysagistes Concepteurs

26. Aix-en-Provence, Bouches-du-Rhône. See more of this transformed yard

MEERO

27. Paris. Bohemian chic in a former artist’s studio

Bernard Touillon Photographe

28. Alpes-Maritimes. Tour this charming home in the south of France

Jours & Nuits

29. Frontignan, Hérault. See more of this seaside cottage

Fabrice Ausset – Architecte DPLG

30. Paris. Step inside this eclectic apartment

MAS PROVENCE

31. Aix-en-Provence, Bouches-du-Rhône. Tour this traditional farmhouse

Aude Borromée

32. Paris. See more of this colorful space

Agence Glenn Medioni

33. Paris. See more pictures and read about this apartment

MEERO

34. Paris. Tour this home of musicians

CKA PARIS

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35. Paris. See more of this apartment

AMDECO

36. Méribel, Savoie. Visit the rest of this chalet

Alexandre Montagne – Photographe immobilier

37. Lyon. See more of this apartment bathed in light

JPDA

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38. L’Isle-Adam, Val-d’Oise. Tour the rest of this home

ATELIER FB

39. Paris. Style galore in this home of a fashionista

Cendrine Deville Jacquot – Architecte DPLG

40. Bordeaux. See more of this home addition

Christophe Beaugrand / Anthony Nicolini architects

41. Paris. See more of this glam bedroom

A3Design

42. Périgord, Dordogne. Tour this renovated chateau

Alexandre Montagne – Photographe immobilier

43. Lyon. See more of this transformed loft

d.mesure – Elodie Sire

44. Paris. Step inside this moody apartment

atelier daaa

45. Paris. Visit the rest of this home

Franck Minieri, Photographer

46. Nice. Tour the “Super Dog Loft”

Jours & Nuits

47. Le Lavandou, Var. See more of this seaside villa

Aurélien Vivier

48. Saint-Étienne, Loire. Step inside this renovated textile factory

be-attitude

49. Paris. See more of this bright apartment

Atelier Zündel Cristea

50. Vincennes, Val-de-Marne. View this contemporary home

For 50 more please visit net weeks Blog!

Thank you to HOUZZ and

Pauline Warlet July 14, 2017

Rédactrice en chef Houzz France

20 Ideas for Easygoing Summer Parties

Ditch the fancy and fussy in favor of laid-back entertaining that leaves you more time to enjoy the fun

Summertime calls for a distinctly unfussy approach to entertaining, and thankfully so —because who wants to sweat over planning a summer soiree? Make things easier on yourself by hosting outdoors instead of in, getting guests to pitch in and embracing low-key, budget-friendly decor. From DIY flowers and quick extra tables to a beachy outdoor bar, these 20 ideas will make your party planning easier.

1. Whip up an extra table with sawhorses. Short on outdoor dining space? Hunt down a few sawhorses and top them with a length of board as big as you want your table to be. You can paint the board, cover it with a cloth or butcher paper, or leave it as is.

2. Fashion a wooden crate into a drinks container. If you line it with plastic, any old crate can be a rustic-chic open-top cooler for keeping soda and beer on ice. It won’t keep it cold as long as a real cooler, but it should do the trick at a party.

3. No crate? Use whatever you’ve got. An old wheelbarrow, a garden cart, an enamel bucket or even a toy dump truck can be lined with trash bags and filled with ice to make an impromptu drinks cooler.

Cezign

4. Give your outdoor bar a tiki makeover with a palapa roof. Search for “palm leaf thatch panels” to find a source and tack a few lengths of the grassy stuff to the roof of your outdoor bar or shed to give it some tiki bar style.

Celia Bedilia

5. Dress up candles with woodsy details. Curl a wide green leaf and drop it into a glass jar — then fill the jar with water and float a tea light on top. Or use lengths of birch bark (available at craft stores) to wrap the outside of a jar or candleholder, and fasten them with twine.

6. Make beachy candles with mason jars and sand. Filled partway with sand, a mason jar of any size can easily become a chic candleholder. To make hanging lanterns, wrap the mouth of the jar with flexible wire and hang the jar from the branches of a tree. For safety, use battery-operated candles for hanging.

Atlantic Archives, Inc.

7. Use soda bottles as vases. A row of tall, slender soda bottles lined up in the middle of a table makes a pretty (and supereasy) centerpiece. Just plunk one bloom in each vase, and you’re done! Try gerbera daisies, cosmos or sunflowers.

Soapstone Werks

8. Involve your guests. Have them help squeeze lemons for fresh lemonade, let them take a turn cranking an old-fashioned ice cream maker or send them into your garden with clippers to pick a bouquet for the table.

Bruce Clodfelter and Associates

9. Seat everyone at one big table. Who wouldn’t love coming into a backyard set up like this? Put two or three tables together if you have to — the dramatic effect will be worth the effort.

Corynne Pless

10. Use old crates as trays and servers. Vintage wooden soda crates make the perfect receptacle for toting glasses, vases, napkins and other essentials out to the garden. Or use one to dole out flatware, standing utensils upright in simple mason jars.

Cassie Daughtrey Realogics Sotheby’s Realty

11. Boost ambience with lanterns and signs. Flank the entrance to your party area with a pair of big lanterns and lean a sign nearby — it can announce the menu or simply say, “Welcome!”

Cassie Daughtrey Realogics Sotheby’s Realty

12. Greet visitors with a pretty porch for the Fourth. A great big galvanized tub of red geraniums and a waving flag make a cheerful entrance to this home. Keep the patriotic spirit going with Americana-style cushions on a classic porch swing.

Beckwith Interiors

13. Give guests a healthy option with fresh flavored waters. Fill a big drink dispenser with ice water, flavored with fresh ingredients for a healthy thirst quencher on hot days. Try lemon, lime or orange slices; fresh mint leaves; cucumber rounds; or berries.

Cassie Daughtrey Realogics Sotheby’s Realty

14. Place your table in the shade. There’s nothing worse than trying to enjoy a lovely meal al fresco when the sun is beating down on you! Keep your guests comfortable by pulling the tables under the shade of a tree or awning, or invest in some umbrellas.

Cottage Home, Inc.

15. Make a plan to keep bugs at bay. If you have a water feature, make sure you regularly treat it or skim it to keep mosquitoes from breeding there. If the bugs are bad in your area, plan your event for a less buggy time of day or hold it on a screened-in porch, where your guests can enjoy a fresh breeze without getting bitten.

The Cousins

16. Create activity zones to keep large parties moving. Setting up several distinct areas can help a large gathering feel more manageable, as your guests will naturally be drawn into smaller groups. For instance, you could set up a dining table, a fire pit circle, a porch lounge and an outdoor bar.

Becky Cunningham Home

17. Collect thrifty party supplies. Avoid last-minute stress by keeping an entertaining cupboard well stocked with mason jars, florist’s buckets, table linens, candles and serving containers. Many times you don’t even need to buy these things — save pretty old jars to use as glasses, washed-out tin cans to use as flower containers and even old bedsheets to use as outdoor tablecloths.

Celia Bedilia

18. Go wild with your arrangements. Plucking flowers and foliage from your own backyard is cheaper than buying them, and it can be more fun, too! Push yourself to look at your garden anew and clip a little something unexpected to tuck into your bouquet. Dandelions look charming in mason jars, flowering chives are utterly romantic, and an artichoke would make a dramatic centerpiece in a mixed floral bouquet.

19. Hang flowers from a tree. Use a drill to punch two holes in a washed-out tin can and thread wire through the holes to make a hanger. Fill your cans with cut flowers and hang them from a tree around your outdoor dining table. Leave the cans plain or dress them up by tying on strips of pretty fabric.

Thom Filicia Inc.

20. Consider the arc of your evening. Moving your guests from place to place is a great way to keep the evening moving along — and keep folks talking. Start with appetizers and drinks on the porch, move into the backyard for dinner, gather around the fire pit for dessert, and carry mugs of coffee on a postdessert walk to the water or somewhere equally pretty.

Thank you to my source- Houzz and Laura Gaskill

Laura Gaskill May 25, 2015

Houzz Contributor. I cover topics ranging from decorating ideas, product picks, Houzz…More

Trending: New Summer Entertaining Tablescapes

I recently received by first “Bouq”… 36 rainbow roses to celebrate Ron and my wedding anniversary….

DIY FARM FRESH
June 19, 2017

It’s officially here –– the first day of summer has arrived! As bright days laze their way into warm evenings, we’ve got our minds set on friends, family, food, and flowers. To start the season, we checked in with Eric Buterbaugh, The Bouqs Co.’s very own Chief Floral Designer, to talk dreamy summer tablescape trends. We styled the table with beautiful tableware and linen courtesy of our friends at Shabby Chic and Parachute Home. Happy dining!

Bud Vases

At your next gathering, forget the extra fork. Instead, try adding a bud vase at each table setting to round out your decor. Using a single stem in each vase gives you a lot of bang for your buck, and each flower type lends a unique feel to your tablescape. The diminutive yet ultra-elegant nature of miniature calla lilies makes them a great option.

Featured Bouq: Juliet // White miniature calla lilies

 

Summer Garland

Dread using the same runner for another year? Tap into the table garland trend by adding bright florals and cool greenery for a look that makes your summer table absolutely sing.

Start by layering the greenery together down the center of the table and steadying it with floral wire. Then toss in some focal flowers for a pop of color. The abundant spray roses and alstroemeria in our Bourdeaux Bouq are perfect for adding some season-friendly brightness to your garland. Just pull out a few stems and tuck them in, before featuring your Bouq front and center on the tablescape.

Featured Bouq: Bordeaux // Pink roses and alstroemeria

 

Floating Florals & Candles

In case you were wondering, Gerbera daisies are great swimmers! Before your next soiree, spare a few stems (our Cabana Bouq is a great option), add water to a bubble vase, and include the blooms for an easy, elegant centerpiece. Experiment with size, color, and texture by mixing and matching different flower types. For those day parties that flow into the evening hours, a tea light or two in the vase will give your centerpiece a cozy glow.

 

Featured Bouq: Santa Cruz’n // Multi-colored spray roses

Succulent Table Setting

Succulents are perhaps nature’s prettiest, most low-maintenance friend. And best of all, they’re an on-trend and easy way to complete your summer tablescape. You can pick up succulents from your local garden center or pull from our Showstopper Bouq to cap off each table setting. It’s a great way to hold down name cards on breezy evenings, and it also makes for a great take-home gift to offer your guests! They can bring their succulent home to plant for a gift that keeps on giving.

 

Featured Bouq: Showstopper // Pink roses and alstroemeria with succulents

We’d love to see what you come up with for your next summer party! As always, be sure to use #Bouqlove when you post photos of your outdoor tablescape. It’ll make us feel like we were there enjoying the evening with you.

Groom Your Rooms With Kentucky Derby Decor

 It’s time to run for the roses! Celebrate the Kentucky Derby at home with decorative touches that evoke the Bluegrass State

 

It’s not the only marquee horse race in the country, but there’s something about the Kentucky Derby that conjures up a singular sense of romance and refinement. Where I live it’s a major cause for celebration — never mind that two whole states stand between Birmingham, Alabama, and Churchill Downs. I know countless folks here in town who can’t wait to break out their picture hats and pearl chokers, uncap the Maker’s Mark and invite friends for viewing parties on that first weekend in May.

So as long as everyone’s in the spirit, I thought, why not take it one step farther? Try these ideas for adding a little Kentucky style to your home. Long after the winner’s rose garland has wilted, you’ll remain at the peak of bluegrass chic.

Richard Taylor Architects

 

Drive through Kentucky and you’ll see miles of simple plank fences like this one, marking the boundaries of the thoroughbred farms that blanket the countryside. Fun fact: Traditionally, fences painted white signified wealth — they sent a subtle message that the farm’s owners could afford to repaint every year or two. Natural wood or brown-painted fences were considered a cut below. Who knew?

Archer & Buchanan Architecture, Ltd.

 

This split-rail fence is a rustic relative of the plank version. Its rough-hewn profile marries perfectly with the stone barn in the background.

 

When they’re not filled with crushed ice and bourbon, silver julep cups — the cocktail vehicle of choice at Derby time — turn into household workhorses (yikes, that pun came from nowhere). This trio holds petite bouquets, but you’ll see julep cups used as pencil holders, jewelry catchalls and decorative displays. Bonus points if they bear your monogram in a well-mannered script.

 

OK, so it’s from a horse show and not a race, but this loving cup certainly belongs in Derby-inspired decor. The julep cup is a small but vital supporting player in the little group of vessels.

BROWN DAVIS INTERIORS, INC.

 

When the horses have run for the roses and the lucky winner is draped with the garland, rose bouquets tucked around your house will add to the festive air. This one looks right at home amid a formal china cabinet.

McKay Flooring Ltd

 

Besides bluegrass, Kentucky is known for one other big B: bourbon. The walls and floors in this space are cloaked in salvaged whisky barrels (just pretend they bear a Wild Turkey or Woodford Reserve logo). Who could get enough of that rich, mellow sheen?

McKay Flooring Ltd

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Here’s a gorgeous detail from the whisky barrel wood above. Each plank has its own unique character, so you’re guaranteed a one-of-a-kind look.

Rough Linen

 

What’s the Kentucky Derby without hats? This sweetly simple pink number transitions from head to wall when the race is run. It won’t be the most flamboyant topper in the crowd, but it won’t look garish hanging on the hook, either.

 

A collection of straw bonnets perched on this rack feels sprightly and spring-fresh enough for Derby day and beyond.

Alan Mascord Design Associates Inc

 

And finally, the star of the show: equestrian accents. A well-weathered saddle and horse blanket perch beneath barn-inspired ceiling beams, so striking that they read as a single piece of sculpture.

See the rest of this home

Anthony Baratta LLC

 

In a more conventional home, these would be hunting prints. Horse images make for a pleasant surprise and add a note of gentleman’s-farm chic to this grand foyer.

Thank you to Houzz for the great information!!!!

Lisa Frederick

10 Considerations for the Bedroom Addition of Your Dreams

Get the master bedroom you’ve always wanted by carefully considering views, access to the outdoors and more

One of the most common home additions is a new master bedroom. Whether you bought an older home in an established neighborhood and the current bedroom lacks amenities, or you have sent your offspring out into the world and are ready spend money on yourself, there are a few things with which you might want to spoil yourself.

So, what might you want to include in your dream bedroom? Here are 10 things to consider to make your slumberland a dream come true.

RDM Architecture

1. Location 

Your primary concern with a new master bedroom should be its location. This is probably the most difficult and complicated decision of the adding-on process. You want to know how your new bedroom will relate to the landscape, or if it even can, if it is not on the ground floor. You also have to consider privacy and how the circulation of the layout will work with the rest of the plan.With the addition of the master suite on this house, the architect has defined a marvelous path garden that complements the scheme and the new master bedroom in an enchanting way.

Steven Corley Randel, Architect

The original layout of this 1950s ranch-style house had a series of three bedrooms and two bathrooms aligned at one end of the house. A practical solution here was to locate a new master bedroom among the new addition at the other end of the house. The original bedrooms remained intact and functioned well for the children, while the parents got a sequestered suite all to themselves.

How to Read a Floor Plan

Modern Yankee Builders

Second-floor suites can sometimes be built into the roof of your existing structure. Other times you may need to add a new second-floor structure that rests atop the existing house. Should you choose this route, be mindful that any structure that is affected by the addition will need to be updated and upgraded to current building codes.

What to Consider With a Second-Story Addition

Giffin & Crane General Contractors, Inc.

2. Access to the Outdoors

Once you have defined a good position for your new bedroom, think about its access to the outdoors. In the past it was less common to have direct exterior access from a bedroom. Current trends indicate a preference for master bedrooms on the ground level with doors opening onto private patios and garden spaces.This luxurious, traditional bedroom sports a modern disappearing, or pocket, sliding exterior door that provides a generous opening to an equally sumptuous patio with its own fireplace.

Dreaming of a Bedroom Walkout

Swatt | Miers Architects

3. Windows

Moving past doors, your next concern should be the windows. Studies show that darker rooms induce sounder sleep. Of course, you are not always sleeping; finding a balance between light and dark takes some careful planning.In this ultramodern and chic bedroom, rolling blinds are cleverly disguised: They are recessed into their own alcove just above the window frames.

Trillium Enterprises, INC.

4. Views

If you are fortunate enough to have views, take full advantage of them. You don’t have to have an ocean view, as this house does; views into gardens, swimming pools and courtyards can be just as dramatic.

Gast Architects

5. A Sitting Area

Another common trend is to provide a sitting room within the master bedroom. Designs can even feel like a small living room, as in this house. These spaces can be very quiet places where you can get away and spend time writing, reading or just contemplating. If a sitting area is on your wish list, allow at least an extra 150 square feet of space to accommodate furnishings.

Dennis Moffitt Painting

6. A Fireplace

A fireplace provides the perfect focal point for any room. If you want one in your bedroom, work with your architect or designer to determine how much emphasis it should have. The traditional stone fireplace in this room dominates, but modern gas fireplaces of all shapes and sizes can be found to coordinate with your design and taste. Keep in mind that there are many municipalities in major metropolitan areas where wood-burning fireplaces are no longer allowed.

7. The Ceiling

If there is any room in your house where you will be frequently looking at the ceiling, the bedroom is it. The exposed trusses in this space provide marvelous detail and interest. Even if you have a flat ceiling, finishes of infinite varieties are available to create an enchanting space. Consider that if this space had a flat ceiling, the planks alone would be a very nice touch.

Giffin & Crane General Contractors, Inc.

8. Lighting

From candleholders to hidden alcoves, bedrooms offer plenty of opportunities for creative uses of artificial lighting. The bedroom in this luxury home relies on various light sources. The crystal chandelier provides a glittery display; bedside lamps provide intimate and personal illumination; while cove lighting at the cornice molding gives a romantic glow and accentuates the ceiling detail. And don’t forget about candles; nothing provides more intimacy than these. Consider dimmer switches and avoid recessed cans in the ceiling of a bedroom. Remember, you will frequently be looking up, and it can be unpleasant to have your partner suddenly flip a switch and blind you as if you were in an interrogation room.

Mackenzie Collier Interiors

9. Entertainment

Not everyone wants a television in the bedroom, but this is a desirable amenity for some. Carefully consider placement and whether you want a built-in, as seen in this bedroom. Even if you prefer no TV, music can add another pleasant dimension. It may be as simple as providing a couple of strategically placed small wireless speakers.

Kurtz Homes Naples

10. A Theme

Finally, give your new bedroom a theme. This tropically inspired space is a coherent, peaceful and restful retreat. Notice that great attention has been given to the ceiling.

Steven Randel

Houzz Contributor. California licensed architect specializing in residential projects…More

Kitchen Watch: Trends, Products and Lifestyle Elements

Modern Kitchens Reflect a Desire for Personality, Honest Materials, Healthy Living and Control

The evolution of the modern kitchen has finally hit a design crescendo. The following design directions reflect a greater desire for control, ease, and environmental sensitivity within the home that appears to be increasingly common among a diverse range of homeowners. Whether any or all of the possibilities below fully develop into future design concepts for kitchens or vary a bit — as many trends do — depend on regional influences and budgetary considerations.

Searl Lamaster Howe Architects

Lifestyle at home: Homes have become kitchen-centric, with kitchens serving as a family’s venue for leisure, work, and entertaining in addition to its utilitarian roles. Homeowners are willing to devote a greater share of thought, square footage, and budget to design kitchens that will ease this lifestyle integration. Moving forward, designers will seek to create more unified, holistic concepts for lifestyle-inclusive kitchen environments.

Kitchen Designs by Ken Kelly, Inc. (CKD, CBD, CR)

Personality-driven design: Many homeowners, not satisfied with cookie-cutter kitchens, are choosing to put a personal stamp on their designs to create unique spaces that showcase their aesthetic preferences and personalities. Consumers are savvier than ever about the options available to them, and they will continue to demand ever-more-personalized designs.

Tina Kuhlmann

Personality-driven design: Reflecting the kitchen’s shift from pure utility to venue for comfort and expression, elements like lighting fixtures, countertops, and hardware are getting the custom treatment with personalized touches, such as countertops embedded with favorite objects or motifs, or whimsical cabinet knobs.

Health and wellness: Going beyond simple conservation of resources, green design in the kitchen now puts a greater emphasis on healthy living. It is primarily driven by the farm-to-table movement and homeowners’ desire to live within an environment that supports their families’ health.

LDa Architecture & Interiors

Health and wellness: Indoor air quality is becoming more important to homeowners, so low- or no-VOC finishes, paints, sealants, and cabinetry materials are increasingly being incorporated into kitchens, as well as ventilation and filtration systems. Also, appliance industry groups currently are developing lifecycle-based sustainability standards for home appliances such as microwaves and refrigerators, which will add a new dimension to appliance performance.

HartmanBaldwin Design/Build

Honest use of materials: Stone’s natural veining is highly valued, and finish preferences have shifted toward honed rather than polished, to let the stone’s raw texture shine. A wider range of metals is being used, from stainless steel to polished nickel to bronzes and brasses with living finishes.

Honest use of materials: Natural materials are able to retain their own voices in today’s kitchens, rather than being muted by unnatural treatments. Wood cabinetry may be painted, but the preference is now for a hand-applied finish that allows brush marks and the material’s original grain to show through, for example.

Mark English Architects, AIA

Honest use of materials: Repurposing pieces in the kitchen area is popular, too. A bench that used to sit in an entry area can easily tuck into to a kitchen niche, giving a personal twist over a newly purchased piece.

Kenneth Fromme

Technological innovation: As the separation between kitchens and living rooms continues to disappear, homeowners are showing a greater preference for integrating and concealing utilitarian elements such as appliances using the aforementioned natural materials. This will be supported by technological advances.

Venegas and Company

Technological innovation: Technology also will enable seamless aging-in-place design and the incorporation of electronic displays and control panels, as well as lighting, into kitchen surfaces — countertops in particular. Further product innovations and electronic advances will make wireless/plugless countertop appliance operation a reality.

Thank you to Houzz for the great information!

A Modern Farmhouse in the Hamptons

An architect’s son brings a lifetime’s worth of lessons into play in this sleek, spacious farmhouse-style home in New York

his Houzz profile shows, Jeff Chmielewski is an architect’s son. Growing tired of what he saw as lackluster design in the Bridgehampton community of Long Island, New York, Chmielewski designed and built the farmhouse he now shares with his family — all without formal design training. He attributes its success to his decades of exposure to all things architectural and, of course, a little bit of help from his father. “I spent months drawing and laying out the residence,” he says, “faxing my sketches to my dad and getting CAD files back in return.”

Chmielewski is proud of his home, a farmhouse perched at the top of a field near Bridgehampton’s Main Street. Built with traditional bones and modern shapes, it’s filled with items that reflect his discerning taste. “I wanted to be very conscious of the surrounding environment — the Bridgehampton Historical Society is located on the other side of the field that the house sits on. But at the same time, I love the light and openness of modern architecture and needed a compromise,” says Chmielewski.

Houzz at a Glance
Who lives here: Jeff and Angela Chmielewski and baby Chase
Location: Bridgehampton, New York
Size: 4,800 square feet
That’s Interesting: Chmielewski is writing a book on home design and building called The 80/20 House.

Chmielewski sited the windows of the main living spaces on the southern side of the house, allowing plenty of light to warm the space. The passive solar heat generated by the southern exposure helps keep the house warm in the cold winter months. In the summer, the house stays cool in the shade of trees surrounding the property.

The house is clad in cedar shingles, divided-light windows and a metal barn roof in homage to Bridgehampton’s potato farming and agrarian roots. Chmielewski chose cable railings for the balconies because they disappear into the shingles when seen from afar and don’t obstruct the view.

A single potted orchid provides the only flora inside the house, which is surrounded by vegetation. Chmielewski bought the vintage Scandinavian chair from a brocante store called Guéridon. “The chair is one of a pair; it doesn’t have any labels or markings, but they are similar to the Falcon Chair by Sigurd Resell,” he says.

Chmielewski retreats to this reading nook during his downtime. “It’s a great place to read a book and enjoy the view,” he says. Each window panel has two independent parts; the bottom sections open and allow the breeze to cool the space in the summer months.

Windows: Lincoln Windows

The kitchen’s open floor plan, unadorned windows, and floating cabinets and shelves, plus the clean, simple lines of the décor, enlarge the space visually.

“We have guests visit us almost every weekend,” says Chmielewski. “Our kitchen is open and visible from the dining area, living room and screened porch, so no one ever feels left out. From May to November we buy all of our produce from the local farmers’ stands.” He and his wife have never had a get-together catered. “We do our own cooking and try to get everyone involved.”

A reclaimed wood table with a modern glass top and antique chairs occupy the dining room. Chmielewski, a self-professed math geek, designed the wood-burning fireplace as an expression of the golden ratio, widely considered the most aesthetically pleasing proportion.

Browse thousands of fireplace designs

“How the light hits the home throughout the day, how the floor plan flows from room to room, and how each room relates to one another — getting these elements right will make more of a difference than anything else when you design and build a home,” says Chmielewski. Wife Angela (above) reclines and watches over their baby, Chase, as dusk approaches.

Beanbag: Roche Bobois; pumpkin sofa and rug: Ligne Roset; mounted photograph: Jeff Chmielewski; stools: Eames Walnut Stools

When asked about the stark and clean interior spaces of his home (bathroom and bedroom images above), Chmielewski waxes philosophical. “It’s important to leave unadorned spaces in any new home. We have our whole lives to gather beautiful things, and you need to leave some places to add the things you find along the way.”

Thank you to Houzz for this great info and contributor:

Cathy Lara