07 Feb Expect More in 2014
Robare Custom Homes mantra includes the dedication to keeping abreast of the latest in design trends and building technology. Part of that includes attending major events, such as the 2014 NAHB International Builders Show’s (IBS) held in Las Vegas Feb 4-6. Mike and Linda Robare attended the event and brought back some exciting ideas to implement for this year. This year’s theme was Expect More, and that’s precisely what they got. This was the first time that IBS and the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS) – two extraordinary events – were co-located in Las Vegas. With over a combined 1,700 exhibitors covering more than 650,000 square feet of floor space, Design & Construction Week delivered an amazing experience for custom homebuilders.
The best part of the event includes learning new custom home design trends and gaining knowledge and ideas to offer our clients. Some of the trends we see this year include:
Dual Master Baths
Dual master baths are all the rage. They are glamorous, yet extremely functional. Surprisingly, this can be achieved even in a smaller space, while remaining simple, functional and clean. Dual baths often have a shared shower and continue to feature fixtures, colors and finishes with a spa-like feel.
White on White
Cabinets, flooring, back-splashes, counters, fixtures and appliances are beginning to lighten up. Layering white on top of white is a new approach in many kitchens and bathrooms that is giving way to a fresh and light feeling. To achieve clean lines and a modern feel, designers and builders are selecting European cabinetry, adding shiny surfaces via appliance, back-splash and countertop choices, and incorporating glass walls.
Specialty Lighting
Specialty pendants and fixtures are “lighting it up” this year. Regardless of whether it involves a custom or a stock fixture, designers are finding ways to showcase them as pieces of art rather than just a functional element. Lighting is being paired with wood ceiling details to further enhance the room’s design and create a feeling of warmth.
Interior Courtyards
Interior courtyards are popular in all housing types right now, including single-family homes, multifamily complexes and within communities. The primary difference is scale. Gardens are popular with home owners and often occupy community courtyards, while multifamily projects use interior courtyards to showcase private amenities such as pools and fire pits. Within single-family homes, courtyards provide private and safe outdoor living areas and are being shifted to side yards.
Blurring the Lines between Inside and Out
Lines continue to be blurred between the inside and outside of homes. No longer limited to areas with warmer climates, this is being seen all across the country. Both production and custom homes have movable glass walls, gourmet outdoor kitchens and interior courtyard pools, adding more everyday living space.
Historic Style with Modern Flair
New or remodeled homes, whether they are Craftsman, Prairie, Mid-Century Modern or another historic architectural style, are adding modern flair to their traditional designs through color, finish, fixture and lighting selection, while continuing to be influenced by the past through the use of reclaimed building materials and classic proportions and detailing.
Bold Exterior Colors
Bold colors are making their way to the exterior of homes. Whether it’s through paint, a mix of cladding materials, doors, windows, porches, shutters or trim, an extra layer of drama is being adding to the design of elevations, further enhancing curb appeal.
Extraordinary Amenities
Both single-family and multifamily communities and multifamily projects are being designed fully loaded, with over-the-top amenities that appeal to home buyers. Residents want to feel as though they are living in a 4-star hotel, so builders and developers are offering features such as communal kitchens for cooking classes, pools with added wow factors such as a lazy river, a pool for dogs, electric car charging stations, spas, dog parks, concierge services, green walls and great outdoor spaces.
Contact us to learn more and let us get started on building your dream.
Expect more in 2014!