Tips, Trends & Living February 11, 2022

2022 Home Trends

Hello 2022! Life in the new normal goes on, and with it continues a trend toward all things natural and nostalgic. We’re still seeing the Scandinavian concept of “hygge” live on in warm accents and cozy textiles, but with a newer emphasis on “perfect imperfection” (known as “wabi-sabi” in traditional Japanese art). Irregular curves, handmade decor, and mismatched kitsch are slowly creeping in on the cleaner lines of minimalism. With it comes an earthier palette and an emphasis on sustainable and reclaimed materials…

 

#1: Biophilic is the Buzz Word


What started with a houseplant trend has bloomed into a full-blown biophilic craze–borrowing from a design concept centered around bringing the outdoors in
. Now plants are going beyond the pot into integrated indoor gardens, floral ceilings, greenery-inspired motifs, and plant-focused decor/furniture all designed to create a visual connection with nature. We’re also seeing a focus on natural lighting and fresh air, with folding window walls and alfresco living spaces increasing in prominence.

Looking for a houseplant refresh? Try a sansevieria (a.k.a. Snake Plant)–not only is it easier to care for than last year’s fiddle leaf fig, a NASA Clean Air Study found that it’s capable of removing pollutants such as formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene from the air in addition to CO2.


 

#2: Curves Ahead...and Overhead

 

Another extension of the nature trend, organic curves are gradually usurping the sharper geometric shapes of recent years. From curvy, retro furniture to barrel-vaulted ceilings and archways, design is taking a softer turn. A recent Pinterest report also showed trending searches for curved walls, bars, and kitchen islands.


 

#3: Down to Earth Colors & Textures


Shades of green and warm neutrals are the “it” home colors for 2022, shifting a bit away from cooler whites and steel greys. Rich earth tones such as camel and terracotta are cropping up as accent colors to promote that cozy, hygge vibe. Nature-inspired blue also remains in the palette.
We’re seeing a continued turn toward earthier gold and bronze metal hardware (in addition to contrasting black).

Layers of texture follow the earthy trend—look for natural linen and bouclé textiles, along with a mix of wood, leather, metal, and stone for furniture and accessories. Textured walls are also trending with faux plaster and limewash paint on the rise.


 

#4: Flexible Open Spaces + Extras


Open floor plans still reign supreme (even post-quarantine), but all that working from home has made us think about how we can make our spaces more adaptable.
Pocket doors, decorative screens, and kitchen islands are being seen as a way to create some division without permanently disrupting flow or line of sight.

Multi-functional furniture and rooms are also increasingly popular. Whether it’s a desk placed behind the living room couch, an ottoman with a pull-out desktop, or an integrated nook, the concept of “entangled” spaces without clear use delineations is something many people are embracing.

As an add-on to flowing public spaces, private “emotional escape rooms” are one of Pinterest’s predicted trends for 2022. Tiny library rooms, music-themed rooms, and massage rooms are all trending in searches. Home theaters are making a comeback after previously being eschewed for taking up too much space. Yoga studios and intimate lounges are also appearing more frequently on architectural wish-lists.


 

#5: Thoughtfully Curated Character

 

As supply issues have limited the supply of new furniture and decor, consumers are turning to high-quality vintage and flea market finds for a trendy, sustainable alternative. People are also infusing their personality into a more “maximalist” design concept with gallery walls full of favorite art/photos, richly patterned rugs, antique statement pieces, and favorite objects (such as guitars) incorporated into their decor.

Consumers are also putting more thought into the ethics of what they buy and where they buy it—especially as younger eco-friendly generations begin to purchase and remodel homes. Sustainable materials and energy-efficient products are in higher demand than ever. Reclaimed, locally sourced, and responsibly made furnishings are also trending in popularity.


 

Need an easy refresh? Try adding throw pillows, blankets or artwork in hues from Pantone’s Spring/Summer 2022 color palette. For paint inspiration, check out the latest trends on Sherwin-Williams’ blog.

 


 

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We earn the trust and loyalty of our brokers and clients by doing real estate exceptionally well. The leader in our market, we deliver client-focused service in an authentic, collaborative, and transparent manner and with the unmatched knowledge and expertise that comes from decades of experience.

© Copyright 2022, Windermere Real Estate/Mercer Island.

Tips, Trends & Living February 16, 2021

2021 Home Trends

Ready for a fresh start in 2021? With home still the place to be, refreshing your indoor and outdoor living spaces can make a big difference in your everyday life. The stresses and challenges of 2020 have influenced the trends of 2021 with a turn toward comfort, nostalgia and independent spaces to work and play…

 

#1: Dedicated Personal Spaces


Sick of working at your dining room table? Desperate for a peaceful spot to exercise? You’re not alone! That’s why home offices and other clearly delineated, private spaces have become more important than ever.
Even if you’re short on space, creative solutions such as turning your closet into a “cloffice” or installing folding room dividers can help you carve out space to study, Zoom or keep fit in peace.


 

#2: Plants & Indoor Gardens


While the houseplant trend predates the pandemic, quarantine has intensified its popularity as people yearn to bring the outdoors in. You can try out your green thumb—and improve your air quality—by using real plants as decor (try Bloomscape’s predicted winner, Ficus altissima). Just make sure you pick the right specimens for your level of natural light. Some folks are even installing special lighting for their own indoor herb or veggie gardens.

Looking for something low-maintenance? Convincing faux versions are widely available, offer more flexibility and still add a fresh look.


 

#3: Wood & Rattan Accents


Dovetailing off the houseplant trend, natural materials are one of the years biggest trends—from wood-grain kitchen cabinets and countertops to rattan furniture and lighting fixtures. Natural wood-grain shelving and paneling are also increasing in prominence.


 

#4: Nostalgic Furniture & Palettes


In the wake of 2020’s frightening new unknowns, people are seeking comfort with familiar throw-backs from simpler times. The funky mauve, emerald green and burnt orange of decades past are making a comeback along with paneled walls, ’80s curvy furniture and ’90s traditionalism. Retro art and accent pieces continue to be popular.


 

#5: Next-Level Outdoor Areas

As winter contributes to our year-long cabin fever, more households are dreaming of bigger and better outdoor spaces. Park-like playgrounds, zip lines and DIY climbing walls are making an appearance in backyards. Safer al fresco entertaining spaces are also in demand with outdoor kitchens, dining areas and fire pits all on the rise.


 

Need an easy refresh? Try adding throw pillows, blankets or artwork in hues from Pantone’s Spring/Summer 2021 color palette.

 


 

Find a Home with Windermere Real Estate

 

Find a Home | Sell Your Home | Property Research

Neighborhoods | Market Reports | Our Team

We earn the trust and loyalty of our brokers and clients by doing real estate exceptionally well. The leader in our market, we deliver client-focused service in an authentic, collaborative and transparent manner and with the unmatched knowledge and expertise that comes from decades of experience.

2737 77th Ave SE, Mercer Island, WA 98040 | (206) 232-0446

mercerisland@windermere.com

© Copyright 2021, Windermere Real Estate / Mercer Island

Tips, Trends & Living March 5, 2020

2020 Home Trends

2020 Interior Design Trends: 5 Takeaways to Refresh Your Home

 

With 2020 now in full swing, we’re seeing some clear shifts in how homes are being designed and decorated. Most notable for our area is the Modern Farmhouse trend with its juxtapositions of old & new, light & dark, and clean & rustic. Softer grey and lagom neutrals are here to stay, but are now being contrasted with deep hues and warm metals. Organic materials such as natural wood and potted plants are also gaining prominence. Here are some key trends to consider as you refresh or renovate…

 

#1: High Contrast Hues


Deep blue is the “it” color in home decor, with Pantone’s “Classic Blue” and Sherwin-Williams’ “Naval” each taking color of the year honors. Navy accent walls are gaining popularity in smaller spaces such as foyers, dining rooms and powder rooms. Black is also back as an accent set against white in kitchens, living rooms and bathrooms. High-contrast graphics are making an appearance on wallpaper and bathroom tile.


 

#2: Vintage Meets Modern


Whether it’s antique artwork, floral wallpaper or vintage tile, old world charm is making a comeback…with a twist. This time around we’re seeing vintage framed art, patterns, woods and statement pieces being incorporated into modern spaces with clean lines. The Modern Farmhouse epitomizes this trend with its fresh new take on the old.


 

#3: The Non-White Kitchen


The all-white kitchen is making room for grey and painted cabinets to take the stage. For the daring, “color pop” cabinets in deep blue, black or even red have been cropping up in the modern kitchen. Kitchens that do have white cabinets are being spiced up with decorative tile floors and backsplashes, along with darker wood shelving and contrasting light fixtures.


 

#4: Comfy and Cozy


Soft shearling, rustic leathers and fluffy textured mohairs are gradually replacing the luxe velvet we saw in years past. High performance outdoor-style fabrics have also gotten an upgrade and are appearing indoors on upholstered dining room chairs and couches. Cushy wing-backed dining benches and chairs are another notable trend, part of an emphasis on making dining rooms less formal and more comfortable. Another fun trend? Curved sofas for the dining room and kitchen.


 

#5: Warm & Earthy Accents


Matte brass continues its popularity in fixtures and frames, often mixed with silver metals. We’re seeing an infusion of aged wood accents, patina, rustic leathers and earthenware softening the clean lines of today’s minimalism. Potted plants are also popping up on shelves and in windows with olive trees usurping fig trees as a favorite statement piece.


 

Need an instant home update? Try adding throw pillows, blankets or artwork in hues from Pantone’s Spring/Summer 2020 color palette.

 


 

Find a Home with Windermere Real Estate

 

Find a Home | Sell Your Home | Property Research

Neighborhoods | Market Reports | Our Team

We earn the trust and loyalty of our brokers and clients by doing real estate exceptionally well. The leader in our market, we deliver client-focused service in an authentic, collaborative and transparent manner and with the unmatched knowledge and expertise that comes from decades of experience.

2737 77th Ave SE, Mercer Island, WA 98040 | (206) 232-0446

mercerisland@windermere.com

© Copyright 2020, Windermere Real Estate / Mercer Island

Seattle Area Real Estate March 12, 2017

Seattle Maison Magazine: Spring 2017 Issue!

I know I say this just about every time a new Seattle Maison debuts, but I think the Spring 2016 issue just may be the BEST version yet! I love, LOVE the fresh topics, and this issue features a spotlight on my favorite stomping grounds around Mercer Island!

Bold colors, geometric patterns, splashes of jewel tones and vibrant blues – these trends are hot right now. In the article, Looking On The Bright Side, you’ll get the scoop on how to incorporate over-sized art pieces, wall paper, and splashy accent pieces into your current décor. I’ve been drooling over all the photo examples in the article. Oh my!

Safer, Cleaner Air

The March/April issue also includes a fabulous article featuring 7 plants that look beautiful in your home and will help purify the air. Formaldehyde is one VOC producing chemical that is commonly found in household products, building products, and furniture. It’s also one of the toughest to dispel from your abode. The 7 plants discussed in the article not only purify air of a variety of toxic chemicals, they are all champs at removing Formaldehyde emissions.

As always, Seattle Maison includes local housing market stats, to keep you in the loop on our red-hot, fast-paced real estate landscape.

Rain, Rain Go Away…

March has definitely been a lion so far – wet, rainy and cold. Let’s hope that the second part of these saying – out like a lamb – arrives soon! I’m definitely looking forward to warmer days, gentle spring breezes off the lake, and sunshine! Until then – delve into the wonder of color within your home and dabble with some the techniques shared in the pages of Seattle Maison magazine!

Want to receive your own copy, emailed when the magazine is “hot off the press?” Email me at kathryn@windermere.com to sign up.