When it comes to home design, trends can ebb and flow with the predictability of the ocean tides.  Each time, however, cyclical trends come back with new flair and new meaning.  So what innovations does 2018 have in store for homeowners creating their custom homes?  And how does it tie in to the design trends of 2017?  Read on to find out what’s hot – and not – in 2017 and 2018 home design trends.  

BACK TO NATURE

Contrary to the technology-focused homes of yesteryear, there seems to be a recent emphasis on natural materials in home design.  Perhaps in rebellion against the brushed metals and stark light fixtures of the past, designers are seeing more attention on primitive wood finishes, natural stone and warm colors. 

Polished brass and bronze are back in a big way – you’ll find this warm metal in knobs, knockers and drawer pulls.  Brushed metal, once a coveted symbol of a modern, technological world, is losing popularity fast.  Even appliances such as dishwashers and refrigerators should be in more muted tones, and some designers suggest skipping the stainless steel or glass stovetops completely and having the gas elements and knobs sit directly on the stone countertops.  

BOLD COLOR AND TEXTURES

In 2018 you’ll see splashes of bold color, especially blue, as consumers hunger for color again.  Before you turn your nose up at the idea, let me explain.  I don’t mean that you’re going to start seeing the green shag carpet and bright purple wallpaper of the Seventies.  I’m talking about a sleek, white kitchen with a blue island or a soft, neutral living room with purple cushions.  There’s something about that contrast that really makes the room.  We’re even starting to see a lot of white kitchens with sleek, black farm sinks.

In addition to bold color, homeowners seem to really crave texture in their home design – and that means wallpaper is making a smashing comeback.  Just be sure to select geometric shapes or soft watercolor backgrounds, and stay away from floral prints.  Big-grain, primitive finishes in wood and open shelves to show off earthenware are also another way to show bold texture in your home.

GEOMETRIC SHAPES

You’ll see a lot of Art Deco this year and next, and of course that means geometric shapes.  The most popular trends right now include:

• Herringbone tile and flooring;
• Simple, sleek subway tile in the kitchen and bathrooms;
• Unique geometric shapes in light fixtures, couch cushions, accent walls and wallpaper.

INCORPORATING TRENDS INTO YOUR HOME

When it comes to creating your custom home, of course you must incorporate design trends in a way that makes you and your family feel comfortable.  As with any design trend, it can be used in the boldest way possible – or subtly integrated into a different style.  That’s why it is so important to work with a designer you love, who truly understands your vision for your home.  The beauty of creating a custom home is that it’s all about what inspires you.

Nelson Construction and Renovations, a family business founded in 2006, is a design-build company that specializes in high-end remodels, home additions, and custom homes. With our headquarters in Clearwater, Florida, we serve homeowners all over Pinellas and Hillsborough Counties. We are an award-winning member of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry and have an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau.  

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