6 minute read
Ask the Home Experts
Building, renovating, remodeling and even decorating your home can seem like a daunting task for some. That’s why we reached out to local pros to give us the lowdown on the latest trends, as well as their expert advice on design, furnishings, technology and finishing touches.
Furnishings
Several looks are currently trending in home furnishings, some individually and some combined to create cultivated and coherent themes. David King, owner of DoMA Home Furnishings, sees what he calls a “nod to the 70’s”. “Graphic fabric patterns and accent chair designs coupled with hot color trends and greens (yes, including avocado), oranges and yellows. Wood tones are beginning to evolve to lighter tones like natural oaks, bleached walnuts, and even lighter burled woods are making a comeback.” His advice to those designing their own space? “Seek professional help. Engaging with a design professional will help enlighten you on what’s available to you and based on your lifestyle and preferences, will direct you in making the right decisions.” DoMA is a “to the trade” showroom, which means you can consult with one of their designers or use your own.
Accenting a space through the use of mixed materials and textures is also popular right now. “Embrace mixed metals, especially polished and black chrome and boucles in neutrals. Combining precious stone with interesting natural materials, warming metals and an interesting color palette is the go-to combination for luxury interiors.” adds King. Before embarking on your design journey, King suggests spending some time living in the space. “Evaluate how you see yourself using the space and be realistic about how you live. Set a budget and prioritize what spaces can be done now and what can be done later.”
Technology
Shades and drapes can be scheduled through an app on your phone, which is a popular choice for homeowners who don’t live in their home year ‘round. It gives an added element to security, making the home look lived in. And with increases in energy prices, it’s a way to save on energy costs. Smart window treatments can adjust automatically to light and temperature and they are also compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google home assistant. So the homeowner can talk to their shades!
Samantha Roberts, co-owner of Budget Blinds, is seeing a trend in softer, eco-friendly choices such as woven wood roman shades. “Farmhouse style homes are complemented with classic bamboos and soft jute fabrics. Most commonly chosen colors are white and gray tones, as well as undyed fabrics, which keep their beautifully natural hues.”
Materials used to create their natural woven wood collections are sustainably grown and harvested and then processed by hand, using natural dyeing processes and hand weaving techniques. Free in home consultations make shopping from home easy, and bringing samples into the home curates the perfect in-home design.
Design
Having a clear vision for a space can be a challenge. Working with an interior designer that can interpret your needs and unique style can make the process more enjoyable and efficient. Nickolas John Zubek of Nickolas John Interiors cultivated a passion for design at an early age and earned a BFA in Interior Architecture. After twenty years in interior design and eleven years in real estate, he merged his two greatest passions. What designs does he see trending? “The best design trends this year are a return to warmth, color, and a slightly more maximalist approach to interiors.” With expertise in both design and real estate, Zubeck offers a unique approach to renovation. “It enables me to guide my clients using informed decisions, whether for their forever home or an investment property.”
Our coastal climate presents unique challenges in design and material selection. To ensure your home stands the test of time, hiring a knowledgeable local designer can be key. “One of the most exciting aspects of the current Florida market is the breaking of traditional design rules. Styles are being brought from other locales, becoming more sophisticated and embracing a more unique edge.”
Large or small, every project comes with its own unique set of challenges. "Budget and timeline are the most common. Setting clear expectations and fostering an open, engaging dialogue is crucial to success
Appliances
Trending now in hardware is decorative metal grilles and integrating cremone bolts into custom cabinetry.
Want to make a beautiful update to your kitchen and still keep it low maintenance? Fingerprint resistant stainless steel finishes are the answer. Jason Horst of Famous Tate says “In addition to stainless steel, premium kitchen appliances are also available in beautiful white matte finishes, which is perfect for our Florida lifestyle kitchen designs.”
The matte finish is fingerprint resistant and models include the latest technology for cooking and cleaning. Counter depth refrigerators provide a sleeker look and are favored by designers. And with newer models you don’t have to sacrifice capacity for the shallower style.
“European convection and air fry technology have become common in most cooking products and provide faster cooking times, but speed cooking ovens are also a great appliance to integrate into today’s kitchen designs.” There is also new technology in LG’s new Instaview refrigerators that allow you to customize the interior color to your kitchen’s mood….kind of like today’s pool lighting.
Also, auto-dispensing detergent in premium dishwashers and laundry products not only saves time and eliminates mess, but it means anyone in the household can start a load and you don’t have to worry about how much detergent they added!
Horst advocates shopping locally. Famous Tate is celebrating 70 years in this market and carries brands and styles for every budget. “It’s really our product experts that make the real difference from delivery to installation. They provide as much or as little assistance as you would like for a no-pressure experience.”
Details
The hardware in your home…..drawer pulls, door knobs, and cabinet handles can set the tone for your design. Styles are endless and can either add a bit of whimsy to your look or make a bold statement. Gaspar & Co. owners Dan and Judy Mulloy have worked in the industry since 1990 with designers, architects, builders, cabinet shops and homeowners. Their best advice to those working on remodels or new construction? “Do your research and make selections as early as possible.” Door hardware should be selected prior to doors being ordered and cabinet hardware should be selected as soon as elevations are available.
Materials are a key factor in our extreme Florida environment. “You want to use non-ferrous materials whenever possible. Finishes vary, but most if not all of what we sell is either solid bronze or solid brass. Plated finishes can be used over solid brass such as chrome or nickel.” The Mulloys are seeing less interest in black and more of the basics of brass, satin nickel and polished chrome.
