8 New Design Trends

Last updated: September 3, 2016

Living room with a modern and cozy design

Want to revitalize your home? Summer’s almost over, but it’s never too late to try something new. There’s something for everyone (and every budget) in these eight design trends.

Bold, Fresh Colors

A living room painted bright teal

A fresh coat of paint is the easiest way to breathe new life into a space. Primary colors made a comeback this year, with hues of blue, red and yellow making an impact. Primaries are a refreshing alternative to neutrals, complementing both light and dark furniture. So pick a color – one that makes you feel good.

Black Stainless Steel

Kitchen with black stainless steel appliances

Image Credit: KitchenAid

Stainless steel is a durable design trend. Its sleek, polished style fits in any kitchen. The only flaw of stainless steel is that it’s become ordinary. That’s the beauty of black stainless steel: it combines timeless appeal with a brand new look. Black stainless steel gives warmth to white kitchens and brings out the richness of dark ones. And unlike its predecessor, black stainless steel is smudge and fingerprint-proof.

Tech-Free Family Spaces

Living room with a fireplace and no technology

We know too much screen time isn’t good for us, but what can we do about it? This trend has an answer. Creating a tech-free space in your home time makes it easier to unplug, unwind and spend quality time with loved ones. Fill it with the things that bring your family together, like books, board games, and a comfy place for conversation.

Mix & Match Cabinets

Kitchen with mix and match cabinet design

Image Credit: DesRosiers Architects

If you’re in the mood to experiment, make the leap to mix and match cabinets. This design trend works in any kitchen, from the cozy traditional to the sleek and modern. Put darker cabinets below and lighter above, or turn your kitchen island into a bold accent piece. Play it safe with grey and white, or create contrast for a bolder look. The possibilities are endless.

Vintage Pieces

Vintage dresser decorating a room

Image Credit: Beres Design Group

The meaning of ‘vintage’ is in constant flux, but its appeal is timeless. This design trend is here to stay. Vintage furniture and décor gives an ordinary space an air of sophistication. What makes vintage unique is how people connect with it – a vintage piece has a story and represents a place in time. Find a piece that speaks to you, and make a statement.

Niche Appliances

Kitchen with a built-in wine fridge

Image Credit: Silhouette

Not everything needs to multitask. This trend shows there’s still room for appliances that do one job really well. More homes are sporting niche appliances like wine coolers and steamers.

Rustic Feature Walls

Rustic wooden accent wall in a bedroom

Image Credit: Foley Development

Think of it as an accent wall with personality. You can use feature walls to break up a large room, emphasize the architecture, or make a visual impact. Combined with the rustic look, this design trend immediately draws the eye. Rustic feature walls add tons of depth and character to a room. Best of all, it’s an easy DIY.

Statement Accents

Oversized statement painting on a living room wall

Image Credit: Jodie Cooper Design

Small pieces can make a big bang. Statement accents are a safe and easy way to play with colors, shapes and textures in your home. It’s a single bold, strong visual that stands out and adds a creative edge to a more neutral space. Furniture, art, lighting, and even wall color can play this role.