Subdued formality drove the design process for this Southern California home for clients who loved being near the water but without the “display of shells and pieces of driftwood” according to designer Barclay Butera. This home was designed for year-round living with a casual elegance that befits its French styled decor in honor of the homeowners style.

Reflecting individual personality in the way interior spaces are designed is a solid decorating trend and when applied in a livable lifestyle is a beauty to behold. The combination of color, scale of furnishings, symmetry and accent pieces eases the formality of this classically designed interior which speaks to using and enjoying the things we love in our everyday living.

A touch of blue and white quietly make their statement from the entry to the master bedroom while being anchored by touches of glamour seen in the use of gilded finishes, crystal chandeliers and marble.

An inviting kitchen allows you to be yourself and avails you to enjoy casual entertaining with its double island or personal time enjoying the expanse of windows that fully embrace the flow of natural light pouring into the space.

Special touches customize this home with personal style, walls and mill work, decorative French-inspired furnishings, luxury sheers that embrace the glamorous ceiling height and many more indulgences that make this house a home. Not just a show house but a well-designed and comfortable home to relax in and enjoy for many years to come!

Please enjoy viewing the full gallery of photos at Formal Interiors Relax and Unwind, Traditional Homes.

Photo: Nathan Schroder

Bold design with a love for color and pattern are just a few elements driving a continued trend to bring the outdoors in with walls treated with wallpaper. Specifically, botanicals lead the way with 3D textures, grasscloth, cork, straw and wicker wallpaper ranging from traditional florals and trompe l’oeil to tropical botanicals and contemporary geometric’s, according to Lotte Brouwer at LivingEtc.

Green seems to be the color of choice alongside earthy tones that leave a bold imprint in the space applied. Classic and bold botanicals are holding their own in the mix of wallpapers offered but with bold tropical prints gaining as a popular choice.

Not just for the dining or powder room anymore, wallpapers are being applied to ceilings, focal walls and bathrooms, especially as a backdrop (pictured above), in this case, giving the perception of tile. Popular color trends are also making bold blues and greens a great choice that offer a nice complement to the furniture in the room.

Geometric wallpapers offer a fresh, contemporary backdrop for transitional spaces with offerings that take on a shiny new twist with shades of rose, silver and gold, according to House Beautiful.

Popular grasscloth and silk wallpapers add a natural touch that now include wicker and straw materials whereas murals afford us the opportunity to create backdrop or panorama scene often depicting nature.

Agate wallpapers that imitate the marbled effect of gemstones are trending up. They bring a fluid movement to the space.

All said, you’re headed in the right direction when considering these wallpaper trends for your home!

Photo Credits | Jeff Herr, Mali Asima, Erica George Dines

Industrial, craftsman style home showcasing 4,500+ square feet of three fabulous stories of a well designed home justifies its HGTV Smart Home 2020 designation that embraces an understated luxury that brings refinement to practical living spaces (including four bedrooms and five bathrooms) for today’s contemporary and comfortable lifestyle.

The kitchen however is my first point of interest. The functionality, layout and smart features that speak to our modern needs has to work and relate to the surrounding spaces; and this kitchens symmetry and execution designed by Tiffany Brooks, connects beautifully to the flow of the interior and exterior spaces.

The smart floor plan also highlights the symmetry of the kitchen layout that creates access from three vantage points; the breakfast nook, dining room and family room.

Home security was not an afterthought with the inclusion of a customizable security system, SimpliSafe, that provides the ability to control the entire system remotely and includes professional monitoring on both the inside and outside of the house.

Under cabinet lighting with electrical outlets make room for aesthetics as well as task activities and the built-in electrical outlets offer function without causing interruption to the backsplash pattern.

Black stainless appliance finishes are gaining in popularity and appliance is Wi-Fi connected, can be programmed remotely and is equipped with a third top rack for cleaning flatware as well as eco-friendly wash zones for smaller loads.

Built-In gas cooktop with LED back-lit durable knobs and heavy-duty venting system that effectively removes smoke, grease, odor and moisture.

The undercounter space saving microwaves comes equipped with sensor cooking controls that automatically adjust time and power for perfect cooking results.

Luxury Vinyl Hardwood looking flooring features an attached cork underlayment which naturally resists odor-causing mold and mildew as well as creates a softer, warmer and quieter floor.

The HGTV Smart Home 2020 is filled with so much more, please take a look for more design inspiration for your next home renovation!

Photo Credit: Rustic White Photography

Design inspiration, dream home or ‘the great escape’ aptly describe this coastal beauty nestled comfortably on an historical Florida coast originally known for its boat and home building craftsmanship. Crane Island, Florida (near Fernandina Beach) enjoyed the privilege of hosting the construction of the Southern Living Idea House  in partnership with Riverside Custom Homes and designer Heather Chadduck Hillegas.

At first glance, this new-old Victorian styled home gives a settled, established feel evidenced by the builders ability to construct the placement of the home to complement the natural landscape of the property and existing trees resulting in an enhanced beach-front home, according to landscape architect Dan Hooten.

The dreamy white exterior is finished in Drift of Mist (SW9166) which surrounds the welcoming front door finished in Blustery Sky (SW9140), both provided by Sherwin Williams.

Beauty and practicality are seamlessly intertwined from the breathtaking entrance to the outdoor space as every consideration was incorporated for ease of movement throughout spacious and natural light filled home loaded with elegant design details.

Another amazing architectural feat is that every room has a view which only enhances the sense of an emotional and spiritual get-away feel.

A unique design treatment for the kitchen backsplash almost catches you by surprise with a lovely Gracie wallpaper featured over the range. Although for the sake of practicality, it is covered by a thin layer of Plexiglas for easy care it evokes an aged patina that connects with the Venetian plaster treatment over the hood. This could be the start of a new trend.

Last, but certainly not least, this outdoor living room seems to be the perfect space to take a moment from everyday commitments. The generous screened porch was placed on the side of the house to protect the view out back and the fireplace makes it enjoyable year round.

This project is worth taking a look at the full gallery of interior and exterior views, I promise you will experience the same design inspiration that I did upon first view. The careful and meticulous effort that went into this project makes it a winner in my book.

Please Tour the Ultimate Southern Dream House and let me know what decorating tips that you can apply to your home!

Photo Credit: Laurey W. Glenn

Natural stone, zen-like retreats and modern innovation bathed in luxury mildly describe these incredible spaces designed by the 2020 Bath of the Year winners sponsored by Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles.

Home is the new sanctuary and the designers have certainly embraced this trend as described by HGTV’s best practices by incorporating “neutral colors, open spaces that amplify natural light, soft greens, blues and pink color hues to create a sense of the outdoors.”

Intrigued by a certain refinement mixed with natural, even rustic design elements confirms a trend towards the use of organic materials that bring a sense of calm to the bath retreat, with a sense of practical function of course. And don’t be fooled with all the natural elements taking center stage, there is a touch of glam in each space representing the style of its owners which brings a personalization that is becoming common in custom interiors.

Oversized showers (as shown above, 18’x7′), sparkling stainless steel soaking tub that changes to an almost matte black as light moves during the day, custom vanities, yoga type bath studio and so much more support the trend of designing spaces that speak to the mind, soul and body.

Transitional with a touch of modern rules in the contest winners choice of design style. Layered with subtle patterns and natural tones and materials accentuate the sense of luxury and glamour in this private and tranquil space.

Each contest winner incorporated a fantastic view; with one designer incorporating a series of clerestory windows to achieve plenty of natural light while not sacrificing privacy. Adding to the calming sense of escape from the hectic activities of daily life exposure to nature in this private space provides an almost instant sense of calm.

I hope that you are as inspired as I am about luxury bath design, especially the elements that can be incorporated into your own bath retreat!

To view the entire gallery please visit 2020 Bath of the Year Winners.

Kitchen islands have transitioned into a “prominent feature in renovated kitchens” according to Houzz in the most recent 2020 Houzz Kitchen Trends Study. Large and loaded with upgrades, the kitchen island has become a style element as well as a functioning element of kitchen design. By choosing different finishes such as cabinet door styles, countertops and color for intentional contrast to the supporting cabinetry, the island has become the “crown jewel” of the kitchen (a name given by Houzz).

Almost 40 percent of those surveyed chose a cabinet color that contrasted with their main cabinets. In case you’re wondering what the most popular contrast colors were, the choices were led by gray (26 percent), blue (19 percent) and black (11 percent).

Contrasting countertop colors were also found to be a popular choice for kitchen updates with 23 percent choosing white and 21 percent choosing medium wood. As for contrasting countertop materials butcher block tops the list at 41 percent!

Kitchen islands have evolved to the point that they are expected to include storage features, built-in appliances such as dishwashers, microwaves, cooktops, garbage disposals and beverage refrigerators. Homeowners are spending more with a “median spend on major kitchen remodels* completed in mid-2019 was up 17 percent at $35,000, according to Houzz.

Islands have indeed become the crown jewel of kitchen renovations and they make a great statement in current and popular transitional kitchen styles.

Keep these kitchen island trends in mind when planning your renovation project!

*A major kitchen remodel refers to a remodel in which at least all the cabinets and appliances are replaced.

Transitional kitchen styles top the list among the 85 percent of renovating homeowners surveyed by a recent Houzz survey, followed by contemporary and modern while farmhouse style seems to have peaked last year.

This popular style kitchen offers clean architectural lines and with often neutral finishes that speak to an ageless and classic style, borrowing the best of traditional and contemporary design. Transitional style kitchens also flow well into connecting spaces within the home.

There are many options to choose from when designing your transitional kitchen,an open floor plan (or ample flow) is critical to the overall look of transitional style. Then cabinet style, color palette, countertops, lighting, flooring, appliances and a myriad of decorative accents that lend themselves to a clean, fresh welcoming look complete the space.

Here are a few more illustrations of transitional kitchens that showcase the design elements mentioned above that promise to inspire your future kitchen renovation project.

A recent collaboration with Better Homes & Gardens kitchen trends writer, Kristina McGuirk speaks to the popularity of transitional style kitchens. Kristina states that transitional kitchens “eliminates visual distractions like patterns and clutter.” We see this attractive feature in the clean lines and simple color palettes.

Kitchen appliances are also given an opportunity to shine in transitional kitchens given the visual impact they are allowed to have due to the subtle and simple aesthetics of this popular kitchen style according to Kristina.

Every design element in transitional kitchens makes a statement the enhances the total look and feel of the kitchen. From pendant lighting, hardware and flooring its no wonder the appeal is so popular. The accents make it personal to your home and style.

Transitional kitchens are here to stay, feel free to share your favorites from this post!

Tudor delight with a modern twist defines the design inspiration behind creating a home that reflects the owners love for art and color with an understated elegant appeal.

The 1939 Tudor renovation is the result of an amazing art curator owner, architect and designer collaboration. The art collection looks right at home in a color palette consisting of taupes, salmon, pale blue-greens and stony hues. Each room finds it anchor in taupe backgrounds making the transition from space to space with ease.

Impressive architectural features delight the eye in every space beginning with the eye-catching arched paneled doorway into the living room. This theme is echoed throughout in interior and exterior doorways.

While warm color hues embrace the entire home an exception was made for the kitchen with the use of warm whites that bring a refreshing sense of renewal to this hard working space filled with luxury appliances.

The music room, a favorite of mine is glamorous and practical with its multi-zone layout for entire family enjoyment. The layout accommodates art reflection in many formats from practicing on musical instruments to reading and relaxing with a good book.

What a refreshing approach to making an old home relevant for today’s lifestyle, may this amazing Tudor live on forever!

To tour the entire gallery of images please visit Tudor with an Artful Touch.

Architect: Anne Decker

Relaxation and comfort seem to be the driving influences in popular color projections for the Color of the Year 2021 announcements and with more home environments becoming “work from home” spaces we need a home that embraces a healthy balance of peace and productivity. Sherwin Williams Urbane Bronze (SW7048) has been crowned Color of the Year 2021, a deep, rich shade with gray undertones. The dark, warm paint color aims to bring a sense of comfort to the home–whether it’s used for the interior or exterior, according to House Beautiful’s Kelly Allen.

With homeowners ready to renovate after adjusting to the affects of Covid-19, baby boomers are leading the way now that “the home is now the ultimate retreat from the world, and color is an easy and effective way to create a personal haven,” spoken by Sue Wadden, director of color marketing at Sherwin Williams.

Urbane Bronze, part of the Sanctuary palette in Sherwin Williams 2021 Colormix Forecast, also pairs well with other warm neutrals such as Modern Gray (SW7632,) and Messenger Bag (SW7740) which has a hint of green (please see below).

Sherwin Williams, in their own words perfectly describe the compelling nature of Urbane Bronze: As a pure, minimalistic expression of nature, Urbane Bronze effortlessly conveys a feeling of warmth and welcome. A refreshing alternative and complement to gray, the hue combines beautifully with pale woods, rich leathers, metals and understated natural stone tones.

Count me in!

Textures and colors imitating natural materials will be at the peak of popularity in the new season of wallpaper trends according to the experts at edecortrends as conscientious homeowners strive to create unity between nature and their home interiors. The use of wallpaper also opens the gateway to our creative senses by inspiring our well being and attitudes in a positive way as a result of the colors and patterns we choose. Whether you aim to freshen up your look with a lively pattern, color combination or aim to create a peaceful mood by inviting warmth and solitude, these options make decorating with wallpaper a popular choice today.

Inspired recently with a delightful design project that I continue to enjoy deserves to be highlighted for its wonderful execution of color and pattern. Spearheaded by designer James Farmer and photographed by Jeff Herr, this weekend retreat for a young family exemplifies what most of us would dream of owning as a main residence. Their use of wallpaper will take your breath away as the choice of color, pattern and nature themes give honor to the owners southern roots. The elegant entry set the tone with delightful details that lift the soul.

Patterns that work together while unifying a color scheme of rich greens that perfectly complement the natural grass cloth wallpaper in the living and dining room.

A farm themed wallpaper by Thomas Straham anchors the powder room against a golden yellow and white background.

An amazing soft blue and green palette creates a welcoming warmth in this kitchen wallpapered with a trellis wallpaper by Anna French.

Serene and sophisticated, adjectives used by the designer to describe the master retreat that is as luxurious as five-star hotel suite. Enveloped with a Colefax and Fowler’s Snow Tree wallpaper combined with its soothing green and aqua palette makes this space worthy of a weekend escape from the hectic world we live in during the week. Studying the design details and layers of luxury crafted by the designer is well worth your time.

Well done!

To view the entire gallery of photos please visit Designing North Toward Home at Flower Magazine.

Warmth and well-being are the buzz words describing Benjamin Moore’s Aegean Teal (2136-40) Color of the Year 2021. Seeking quality in the small moments of life, Aegean Teal certainly takes us back to thoughts of a simpler and less cluttered lifestyle as the color pros were driven by the new focus on comfortable and functional homes that serve as a backdrop to a myriad of activities due to the times.

Aegean Teal supports our domestic environment as we’re seeing it show up on kitchen cabinets, walls, furniture and accessories. This adaptable blue-green palette has a soothing affect and according to Benjamin Moore’s Andrea Magno, director of color marketing and development, they were gravitating towards colors that had organic, natural and rooted in sensability appeal that offered numerous applications from the kitchen to the front door.

Supported by a palette of 11 other shades to make up Benjamin Moore’s Color Trends 2021, “they all have this sunbaked quality…like you left them out in the sun and they ripened,” according to Magno, and plenty of inspiration.

A recent kitchen renovation project chose an island cabinet finish perfectly illustrates the appeal of Aegean Teal as an accent color that brings warmth and a feel of comfort to a living space within the home.

Well done Benjamin Moore!

To learn more about Aegean Teal and its supporting palette please visit Benjamin Moore.

Decorating for the holidays is front and center right now as so many of us are finalizing our design plans for not only our homes but family gatherings as well. Hopefully this post arrives just in time to help inspire your decisions as I’m including a variety of design styles and décor to choose, from a simple touch of elegance to more elaborate décor.

Neutral tones provide space for holiday greenery to shine as well as provide an elegant yet casual feel for this tablescape design.

Instant holiday drama makes this entry pop with the excitement of Christmas with its red lampshades and florals that seal the deal.

Fresh fruit centerpiece surrounded by traditional topiaries with custom Greek key trim tablecloth, upholstered chairs, personalized linens and green velvet drapery all work together to make this a memorable dining experience with family and friends.

Elegant French doors welcome this timeless, traditional holiday design set in natural stone.

For step-by-step instructions for creating this fall floral arrangement please visit Kaylyn Hewitt’s Holiday Table Centerpiece.

A quiet statement speaks clearly as this image depicts with just a touch of holiday and as you can see, there are many ways to make your very own holiday design statement.

Let’s get started!

While holding onto a vision of what their newly purchased home could be over 15 years ago, renovations to their saltbox home were completed with patience and thoughtfulness resulting in a beautiful and welcoming home in one of the most desirable suburbs in Atlanta.

The interior spaces promise to captivate from the elegant entry to a charming secret cellar beneath the home accessed through a “floor door.” The amazing images speak for themselves as old and new furnishings find their place in this elegant but comfortably vintage styled home. Let’s begin this inspiring tour:

What a lovely holiday entrance that includes an updated runner from Stanton Carpet and botanical prints perfectly complementing a classic stripe wallpaper enjoyed for over 15 years.

This living room is a testament to the longevity to classic design as noted by the 15 year old silk drapes now complemented with updated upholstery furnishings.

Antique English secretary, blue and white porcelain collection set in a neutral accents makes for a perfect, casual work space.

Updated from its original 1960’s kitchen, a bright and welcoming kitchen was birthed and the design elements speak for themselves; wood ceilings, custom cabinetry, large island, wallpaper, bay window and so much more that makes the holiday florals sing Happy Holiday!

To view the full gallery of photos please visit Warm Welcome at Atlanta’s Home & Lifestyle and have a safe and wonderful holiday season!

The impact and challenges of Covid followed by months of quarantine and working from home have instinctively brought clarity to kitchen design and our desire to thrive in this coveted space in the home. Specifically, a place designed to connect, to simplify and shelter from a chaotic world, to promote healthy living and where multiple generations can live comfortably together, according to a recent survey conducted by NKBA (National Kitchen+Bath Association).

Connected Living Increased human interaction, ease of information access and a connection with nature are the driving forces behind incorporating open layouts with multifunctional activity zones that can accommodate everyday activities such as meal prep, entertaining, work from home and school.

Simplified Living Kitchen design that incorporates specific storage that minimizes clutter while making meal prep more efficient enhances our need to escape from a chaotic world while making the kitchen more of a retreat.

Healthy Living Kitchen spaces that inspire and promote healing for the body through a deeper connection to nature and therefore make decisions that focus on wellness.

Living In Place Kitchen design that works for multiple generations living under the same roof lends itself to an open concept as well as how these generations drive the design of task zones and kitchen appliances.

Key design trends that support these lifestyle changes make perfect sense in the application of new or updated kitchens and were specifically identified in this survey;

• Larger kitchen islands • Open floor plan • Increased number of charging outlets • Landing counters for groceries and food delivery • Larger sinks and refrigerators • Commercial finishes and fabrics for easy cleaning and durability • Recycling and composting stations

Hopefully your kitchen project, new construction or renovated will be a reflection of the current times and designed to meet the challenges of today’s emerging needs.

Happy planning and be sure to check out the ‘before’ images below!

Photo Credit(s): Jen Morley Burner, House Beautiful, Jean Allsopp, Better Homes & Garden

As predictions go, the National Kitchen & Bath Association’s (NKBA) latest initiative focusing on how living impacts design hit a home run by showcasing what major lifestyle themes would play out in the design of kitchens as it relates to consumers design needs. They came away with four major design themes that speak to how we live today.

The Kitchen of the Year 2021 winners represent extremely well the major design themes that are truly made for living today by incorporating connected living, simplified living, living in place and healthy living.

Connected Living Driven by technology that aligns the kitchen with the rest of the house, making it more centralized.

Simplified Living Designing kitchens that plan for less clutter, easy to clean and well organized.

Living in Place Incorporating features and layouts that make it easier to navigate in such a way that allows seniors to remain in their homes as long as possible.

Healthy Living These kitchens promote healthier food preparation, a closer connection with nature that incorporate larger windows that maximize views to outdoor, smart temperature controls, ample food storage, increased refrigerator space for fresh produce, meats, diary and large areas for cutting/prepping fresh foods.

Every kitchen featured is a winner as each met the needs and lifestyle requirements of it owners while incorporating design elements for contemporary living.

To view the entire gallery of contest winners please visit Kitchen of the Year Winners inspired design!

Photographed by: Emily Followill, Mali Azima, Jeff Herr

Twenty seven designers in 3D loaning their talent to provide much needed funding to the Kips Bay Boys & Girls Club in partnership with the Dallas-based Dwell with Dignity organization that provides transitional housing to formerly homeless, incarcerated, or abused women and families is truly a statement of inspired design.

Design at its best showcasing the art of detailing intricate layers of detail and thoughtful planning, each space is a case study in design depth that leaves one breathless in pursuit of luxurious elegance in the home.

Too grand of a project to keep to oneself, I had to pass this inspirational project along for your enjoyment as well as provide a link to view the incredible spaces in full or click through to enjoy the virtual decorator showhouse for a small fee that will help fund and support this great fundraising effort for the Kips Bay Boys & Girls Club.

To view the entire gallery of photos, please visit Dallas Kips Bay Showhouse or enjoy the virtual decorator showhouse tour at Virtual Tour.

Enjoy!

Photography: Stephen Karlisch

Home has become an ever-evolving design project that has found its resting place in a home that works for you and your family, and trends are showing that it begins in the kitchen, a space that is not only multi-functional but sustainable in our current environment. Remodeling is IN right now, an almost natural course of events forced upon us as we adjust to working, educating, exercising and food prepping from home. Making informed design decisions are at the top of the list as we consider design trends and choices that will live with us for many years and hopefully enhance our day-to-day living. Here are a few important trends that should be at the top of your list.

Green Construction Designed to be environmentally sustainable by focusing on the efficient use of resources, along with more efficient energy and water use, recycled building materials are playing a larger part in the design and construction for home and business, according to Central Pacific Construction. So think green when you have the opportunity to remodel, upgrade appliances and choosing building materials.

Butler’s Pantry Now that home has officially trending as the “most multi-functional room” in the home, storage is the buzz-word for the remodeled/updated kitchen. Spending more time in the home naturally reveals the need for “highly-customized and well organized storage solutions [that] will increase the efficiency of a kitchen,” according to Geeta Kewalramani, a certified master kitchen and bath designer with Kimaya Designs. Butler’s pantries can range from a utility room to tall pantries, drawers and cabinets optimized for maximum storage capacity.

Smart Kitchens It’s all about convenience when updating your kitchen, according to Leo Lantz, a remodeler in Glen Allen, Virginia. Smart appliances that perform more than one function are what people want. For example, a smart refrigerator that also lets you control smart lighting or monitor the front door adds to the flexibility in designing spaces. Gas and induction cooking methods are nearly equal in popularity, with induction set to replace traditional glass electric cooktops, according to NKBA.

Kitchen Cabinets Although white cabinets will always have a classic hold on kitchens, homeowners are embracing colors such as greens, blues and even warm wood tones that are popping up everywhere according to Michelle Berwick of Michelle Berwick Design. Warm natural finishes that remind us of nature are also popular color trends that include grays and browns.

Home Spas Those seeking wellness that encourages relaxation are not only open to designing a multi-functional kitchen but are incorporating spa-like bathrooms with soaking tubs, serene color palettes and modern, sleek fixtures.

Personalization Bringing character and personality to your space has been a surging trend and I believe is here to stay. It can be accomplished by mixing materials and finishes into your design. From plumbing and lighting fixtures to decorative hardware and layers of texture, all of which allow you to set the tone of your individual style.

Wherever you land in making design decisions for your next renovation project, you have the luxury of choosing well for the future of your home and its ability to enhance your lifestyle by incorporating the current design trends!

Photography: Emily Followill, Michael J. Lee

The heart of the home, our kitchens; have been drastically impacted by the current lifestyle changes brought on by Covid, especially when it comes to organization and storage options in this now multi-functional space. As a result, kitchen storage has become a priority in home renovations and according to a 2021 U.S. Houzz Kitchen Trends Study of more than 2000 U.S. homeowners who were planning or recently completed a kitchen renovation. The results show that:

• nearly all renovations included some work on cabinets, with most replacing all cabinets
• partial cabinet upgrades were included in newly renovated kitchens, up from last year
• pantry space also grew, with nearly half of homeowners upgrading pantry cabinets and one in eight adding a walk-in pantry
• an overwhelmingly number of homeowners (76 percent) chose custom or semicustom cabinetry for their kitchen renovation

Shaker-style and white cabinet doors are holding as the leading choice in door style but its how the cabinets are equipped inside where we’re seeing the most customization. Built-in organizers, drawers and trays are very popular as well as sensible when you consider the added function and ease of use that customization offers. The most popular organizers are for cookie sheets and spices while the most common specialty drawers are pullout waste or recycling drawers, shelving trays such as Lazy Susans and pullout or swing-out trays.

Homeowners are also reaching out for professional help in redesigning their space to accommodate the multifunctional needs of the family. The circle of support can include a kitchen designer, general contractors and cabinetmakers. With the median spend for kitchen remodels at $35K, a good team is worth the investment to avoid costly mistakes.

Kitchens today are being called upon to serve the homeowner in a multi-functional way and as time would have it, the heart of the home remains just that, the steady and nourishing anchor of home in this everchanging world.

Technology, innovation and smart design continue to shape the kitchen and bath industry product offerings that complement contemporary lifestyles while also providing efficiencies that streamline our activities in the home, and this movement could not be more timely. Let’s dream a little as I showcase a few of my favorite product offerings this year.

The beautiful Cristallo Bathtub design was inspired by “the delicate simplicity of soft shapes that evoke the waves left by the sea on the coast.”

BlueStar, manufacturer of handcrafted, high-performance appliances for the home kitchen announced a bold new innovation in customized appliance design, BlueStar by Design. By adapting art, wallpaper, tile, hand drawn designs, flooring, patterns or print, BlueStar by Design can create a personalized appliance look that complements your overall kitchen design. See more options at BlueStar by Design!

Dacor, the leading American luxury kitchen appliance brand introduced “the perfect complement to its ever-growing wine preservation systems, the integrated Wine Dispenser.” Using Argon Gas technology, this Dacor 24″ Integrated Wine Dispenser can store up to four bottles and keep the contents fresh for up to 60 days (without the loss of flavor or natural aroma)!

This sleek, single-unit laundry solution from LG “takes up half the floor space while tackling ultra-large loads.” I’m most excited to see the re-design of placing the controls for both units in the center making them convenient for use as well as the built-in intelligence and advanced cleaning features.

KBIS 2021 also introduced the World’s First 48″ Single-Cavity Oven! It has over 40″ of clearance, “enough to fit two turkeys during the holidays, one full + one half commercial tray, or a full goat, lamb or small pig on the MaxRotisserie accessory (with a 33″ motor-driven rod).” Efficiency is not compromised as the oven goes from 0 to 400 degrees in eight minutes, it is a cooking machine according to Forza!

Described as TOTO’s new approachable, intermediate level WASHLET C5 with its beautiful, clean-line design, it offers “EWATER+ technology to clean the wand inside and out, before and after use, and PREMIST to spray the bowl’s interior with a fine water mist to reduce matter’s ability to stick to its surface.” The high-quality, stain-resistant material also repels dirt and waste with an added feature of resisting stains.

The matte black finish of the Caro Shower Door offers a sleek screen and mist design which is high in style and low in maintenance with a hint of industrial style. Sleek, vertical handle makes this a showstopper for sure!

The products featured in this post are not inclusive of not only the Best of KBIS 2021, but also include a sampling of new product picks that embrace new technology, innovation and smart design.

These are exciting times for kitchen and bath renovations!

Social trends are affecting the way space is allocated and designed in new home construction as it relates to the traditional dining room. The need for smart design that meets the need for “flexible rooms” on each level, according to Douglas Smith, president of Miller & Smith, a regional homebuilder based in McLean, Va., is a growing trend. The dining room is now considered a flexible space that can serve several purposes beyond the traditional formal dining area for holidays and entertaining. This flexible room is designed with not only dining in mind but can also serve as a home office, play room or even a guest room.

Described in the mid 1500’s as “a room in which meals are eaten, as in a home or hotel, especially the room in which the major or more formal meals are eaten”, the dining room is here to stay. As glorious and as simple, they make for a more delightful experience among family and friends. A place of gathering that for a few moments, removes us from the distractions of the world, allowing an opportunity for meaningful relationship building while enjoying a meal.

These beautiful images are intended to inspire you as we approach special dining and entertaining events throughout the year!

Let us know your favorite style!