From the Floors Up

The Return of Past Trends

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The circle of life quite literally continues to repeat itself. As we spectate, styles that were popular years ago have returned to fashion and design. From hairstyles to outfit choices and even interior design, some trends continue to fade in and out over time. Some styles that have become entirely obsolete are recently making their way back into the market today. Are you up to date on the latest trends? If not, here are some trends that have begun to return–see how many you have recently noticed:

Berber

Berber became popular in the ’80s and ’90s as plush carpets began to fade out of the marketplace. The demand for more level-loop, lower profile carpet grew higher and higher. Berber had a distinct character that it would add to a room. This carpet slowly faded as the next generation of first-time homebuyers strayed from this look. However, Berber has gradually been on the uprise again–making its way into homes all over the country. As the demand for hard surface flooring increases, the need for unique styling carpet has also increased. Berber has fit the bill and has slowly returned to becoming a highly sought-after carpet that homeowners and businesses alike want.

Wallpaper

Wallpaper became outdated and was often referred to as a “poor man’s solution” for adding character to walls in a room. As people began to affiliate wallpaper as tacky, it slowly faded off the market. However, over time, technology has advanced wallpaper designs. With highly enhanced designs in wallpaper, wallpaper can now add more depth to the room. These incredible styles have been used in whole rooms or to create a focal wall. For areas that do not have exposed woods or brick, wallpaper can now be an alternative option to help enhance your design.

Floral

You may remember grandma having floral sheets and throw pillows. This trend became outdated, and out of style in the early 2000s; however, with women’s fashion, it slowly returned. The repetition in these patterns is a great accent to emphasize in a room. Drapes, throw pillows, and fabrics are all coming with beautiful floral prints. This once outdated style is now the hottest trend.

Natural Materials

Contemporary, Modern Design, Scandinavian, and Art Deco took a strong run in the last decade. With this, plastics were heavily introduced into furniture and décor. While natural materials never became obsolete, the demand went decreased. Yet now, the demand is at an all high. Natural hardwood floors, marble countertops, stone fireplaces, and much more are all becoming the new hot trend in homes.

Maximalism

While we watch minimalism take a strong term in the last years, many experts believe maximalism is back. We have not seen maximalism in design themes since the Victorian Era. Maximalism has an eclectic look featuring many highly lavished décor pieces being added to the room. While less is more will never become unwanted, maximalism is coming back and is considered to be very trendy.

Which one of these trends have you recently noticed? Do you see other trends we forgot to mention? Let us know below in the comment section. For more insight on the latest trends in interior and exterior design, make sure to subscribe.

Trending Designs of 2019

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We are now entering halfway through the year 2019. With predictions coming to fruition and patterns being seen, we can now step back and look at some of the trending design styles. What has 2019 brought to offer to interior design? What has come and went through the past decade of interior design? Are certain elements here to stay? We explore all these questions and more as we investigate the Trending Designs of 2019.

Matte Black

Traditionally faucets would come in stainless steel. The color spectrum began to broaden over the years as gold and copper started to be thrown into the mix. Lately, many people are switching out handles to a drawer, faucets, and other hardware with a matte black finish. This look feels crisp while no drawing attention in the room.

Agate Stone

People love incorporating different stonework in their homes. Agate stone has an exceptional look that is becoming trendy throughout 2019. This stone can feel raw due to its nature, but its highly symmetrical designs allow it to work in the most contemporary atmospheres.

Urban Inspired Décor

The millennials have begun to put their imprint on the design world. Urban inspired décor has becoming reinstated for its edgy look. This blend of urban and modern pop culture is seen in many commercial designs lately and is bleeding into the residential areas as well.

Contemporary/Vintage Lighting

Individuals are now straying away from traditional light fixtures. From ceiling lights to floor lamps, unique styles are being added to room scenes. Whether vintage to help make a statement or contemporary lighting, homeowners are investing more attention to the aesthetics of their light fixtures.

Maximalism

The constant cycle of minimalism and maximalism repeats itself throughout history. From Victorian Era design to Edwardian Era, maximalism faded and became minimalism. Now the once loved styling of minimalism has begun to repeat itself in the cycle. Maximalism is allowing people to add more personality and ornate touches to their homes. It is eliminating the less is more mentality and beginning to stick.

Many things in fashion and design tend to repeat themselves. We are in the cycle of a new generation. Even as technology advances, it can begin to transform the needs and wants we include in our designs. Where do you think interior design is headed? We would love to hear your thoughts below in the comment section.

Ideas for Designing a Small Kitchen

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Breathtaking Backsplash

Do you like things that sparkle? How about adding your own sense of glam to the kitchen by creating a custom, showstopping backsplash from glass tiles. Experiment with color and patterns when installing glass tiles. In a small kitchen, even a small glass tile while behind the kitchen stove can bring loads of personality to the space while not overwhelming the decor.

Display Dish-Ware

You know that special dishware you have been collecting for years that you only bring out on holidays? You can implement it into your kitchen’s decor by displaying the collection on an open shelving unit. Do something different by putting your collection on display in front of the kitchen window on a built-in shelf. Just imagine how beautiful your dishware will look when the sun hits it.

Accessories

Like any other room in your house, you can add accessories in your kitchen design. You can create an art gallery right in your kitchen by dedicating a wall to a mix of different prints and framed artwork then add pops of color to your kitchen furniture. For instance, bright red tables at your kitchen table make the environment feel fun and lighthearted.

Color on the Wall

Apply a bright and cheery color on your kitchen walls for a contemporary look. Colors like kiwi green or muted yellow are ultra-modern and exciting. Not to mention, bright colors can make your kitchen look bigger.

Bold Window Treatments

Steer clear from your standard white roman shades and opt for something festive. Bold window treatments featuring a vibrant textile is likely to be an attention grabber.

Functionality

Of course, your small kitchen needs to be super functional so that you can get the most out of it. Use pot racks to hang your pots and pans since cabinet space may be limited. A tool basket to hold your cooking utensils can also be stylish and functional. Additionally, you can glam up your kitchen with countertop storage solutions that add to the overall while incorporating functional elements for your small space.

What are your thoughts on the ideas we listed? Have you implemented any of them in your home? Let us know your thoughts below in the comment section.

Understanding Masculine and Feminine Design

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Designing your space can have many outlets and options to help to tailor your home to your style.  Generally, homes are designed neutral or genderless to help with resell value; however, your home is a personal escape and designing it to your needs comes first.  If you are looking to make a man cave or a female hangout area, there are several ways to go about it.  To help, we broke down some great options to incorporate in your own home to help design these spaces.  

Masculine Design

While both masculine and feminine designs generally accept many of these options, certain elements and colors are traditionally used in masculine design.  Leather sofas and chairs are great additions to help create your man cave.  Colors like blues, browns, and blacks can be affiliated with masculine characteristics. Darker palettes are also typically used. You can give homage to rough or distressed look with natural elements like stones, woods, even metals.  Masculine design can also be associated with geometrical patterns.  Whether used on curtains, paintings, or decor, geometrical patterns are great for forming the space.

Feminine Design

Colors and shades can typically alter a room’s feel.  Lighter shades and pastel tones can be associated with feminine characteristics.  Pinks, whites, and creamy greys can influence a space to feel more feminine. Where hard lines and geometrical patterns flourish in masculine design, soft curvy furniture can be appreciated in a feminine style designed space.  Consider floral and damasks patterns in your feminine themed spaces.  Feminine design can also appreciate good artwork with meaning and portraying an image rather than just shapes. 

Harmony

While both feminine and masculine design can appreciate each other’s styles and no element is distinguished particularly for one over the other, some of these elements can help enhance a style.  Try using these in your own home or mixing and matching to create balance. Both features can help the balance of the other to create a stunning space. Limiting your space to gender-specific décor can hurt your atmosphere.

Allow both designs can be used to help one another. While both masculine and feminine can enjoy both design styles, it can be most beneficial to mix and match. Masculine and Feminine design styles are slowly fading away as we move along in Modern Era. Incorporating both to your space can be truly beneficial.

How to Capture “Zen” in Your Design

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Zen is more than the feeling tranquility and peacefulness. Today, we often find that chaos is the “norm.” Our hectic lives demand more from us than ever. The traditional work weeks have been growing longer and our personal time slowly dwindles away to mere nothingness, and we tend to get caught up indulging in the illusory aspects of the world but fail to enjoy the moment. Creating a relaxing environment in your home is one thing. Zen is wisdom that the cosmos is a harmonious system.

Minimalism

Let’s be honest; clutter equals chaos; therefore, you should eliminate what you do not need. It may seem like stressful at first but eliminating clutter and letting go of attachments will be revitalizing. An open space will feel refreshing without the heavy burden of clutter weighing down the room. Additionally, you will want to stick to a neutral color space. Colors can have psychological influences on the environment, and a neutral space will keep the mind from wandering.

Natural Elements

To achieve Zen, you will want to add natural elements to your room. Running water can be used to help alleviate stress. Water has a mesmerizing effect; perhaps, you would like to try having a fountain or even a fish tank with running water in your room. You can also use essential oils in a diffuser to give your space a peaceful scent like eucalyptus or lavender. Bamboo plants, rocks, and hardwood floors can all be influential on your space. Plus, you can even incorporate some of the elements of Feng Shui. Even natural light can help calm the room. All of these natural elements can be utilized to create Zen.

Spot to Reflect

Whether you choose to meditate, pray, or just unwind sometime during your day, your room should offer a spot to reflect. Self-reflection and time of solitude can help you gather your thoughts. You can have time to eliminate the stresses of the world and focus on yourself. You may want a chair, yoga mat, or stool in the room–just remember that this spot is essential to achieving proper Zen.

What are the properties of Zen most essential to your life? Acquiring true peace is more than having a tranquil environment. True Zen is a lifestyle; not getting worked up about the little things and the pursuit for knowledge. Do not end your journey of peace by just adding a couple of things to your room. Remember to reflect, unwind, and absorb knowledge daily.

From the Floors Up

From the Floors Up blog was created with the goal of providing a destination for consumers, designers and those interested in the flooring, design, and kitchen and bath industries. Here you’ll find, current, accurate and informative information that is always just a click away!

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