A Few of My Favorite (Home Design) Things
Every year, new design trends come roaring to life, but even with the updated and flashy fanfare, there are still tried and true favorites that tend to carry over from year to year. As we bring 2019 to a close, I’ve been thinking a lot about the home design elements from the past 12 months that have topped my personal list of must-haves. I’m constantly drawn to the classics with details that feel fresh, but also timeless. That’s why this month, I’m doing a rundown of my favorite things (and why I think they’ll stick around on next year’s trend list, too). If you’re dying to revamp your space, read on - this list just might give you that nudge of inspiration you’ve been looking for to kick off the new year. Cheers!
XO,
Laura
PANELING
Why stick to plain walls everywhere when you can have a pop of interest instead? I love paneling on walls - especially when it’s done in a fresh and unique way. Though it’s usually linked with a traditional aesthetic, with slight adjustments to the style and color/finish you choose, it can be modern, farmhouse, boho, and more. It’s all about getting creative! Of course, you don’t want every wall paneled - that would feel overwhelming and overdone. Instead, pick an area or two in your home you’d like to highlight (think an accent wall) and add intentional paneling there - it makes for a simple, yet stunning, architectural feature you’ll love for years to come.
BEAMS & CEILING DETAILS
Have you ever heard designers refer to the ceiling as the “5th wall” of a room? It’s so important for the overall look and feel of a space, yet it almost always gets forgotten or relegated to the bottom of a to-do list. But the possibilities for visual pizzazz are endless! Use this surface to add architectural interest with beams, or try an unexpected splash of personality with a spunky wallpaper or accent color. When you put a little extra thought into every detail - including the ceiling - it can go a long way towards making your space come to life.
MINIMALIST KITCHENS
Gone are the days of bulky upper cabinets. Today, it’s all about minimalism and visual simplicity. More and more, people are opting for just a few decorative shelves or nothing at all, and are instead storing dinnerware essentials in pantry closets or tall cabinets built to look like furniture. The result is a much more open kitchen that feels less traditional and more like an extension of a cozy living area. With that kind of vibe, you know I’m on board!
MAKING OLD NEW AGAIN
Rather than purchasing the same mass-produced vanities or tables you see replicated everywhere online, I adore incorporating a bit of vintage flair into a design. The trend of repurposing old pieces and giving them new life is the perfect way to add a sense of warmth and history to a space, and there are so many ways to do it, too. Try turning an old dresser into a bathroom vanity, or opt for an antique stool as a side table. With a touch of old-world charm, your home will feel curated and personal - a combination I can always get behind.