New Year, New Trends

Now that we’re several weeks into a new year, with a new president firmly planted in the White House, there’s a lot to look forward to. With high hopes for President Obama, people are feeling optimistic that change is coming. Not just in politics, though. Our current situation has forced us to take a closer look at our lives — our time, money, plans and goals. A lot of that starts at home.

That saying "Your home is your castle" allows us each to be kings and queens — the rulemakers of a certain place in this world. I know that whenever I feel stressed or overwhelmed, I clean. It gives me a sense that I can control something in my life, master clutter and forge simplicity. Taking good care of my home also gives me of sense of pride and ownership.

Most of us are committed to making our homes a place of comfort, poitive energy and beauty. As we move further into 2009, there will be many trends in home design that will become even more popular than they are now. Here’s some of what you’re going to see:

1. More color

The mood ring doesn’t lie. Just as our mood reflects a color, so color affects our mood. The color forecast for 2009 is, literally, across the spectrum. While many homeowners prefer neutrals, gray may take the place of beige. For those who want a pop of color but can’t commit to a full room of it, an accent wall may do the trick. According to the Pantone Color Institute, lively colors like Fuchsia Red and Vibrant Green are making their way into the palette.

 

Thibaut's new Filigree collection includes Henson, exemplifying grand-scale pattern in wallpaper.

2. Wallpaper

Get that image of your grandma’s kitchen out of your head because today’s wallpaper looks nothing like it. Larger, sophisticated patterns lend a room an element of design that’s been missing from walls for years. 

3. Metals

You don’t want to go overboard with it, but a a little metal can really make a room shine. Copper, platinum, dark silver and rose golds bring energy to a space. Copper sinks, especially, are popular locally, and many homeowners let them patina for that "lived-in" look. 

4. Outdoor spaces

The desire for an indoor/outdoor connection doesn’t appear to be waning. Most homes come with some sort of deck or patio, but the most successful and well-used spaces are an extension of the home’s interior style. Weather-resistant furniture, rugs, TVs and artwork are available to make the outside feel as comfortable as the inside.

5. Going green

There is almost always an eco-friendly alternative to any product on the market. You need carpet? Consider wool or sisal. Building a home? Choose FSC-certified wood or use salvaged or reclaimed wood. Green is about making choices and there are plenty out there.