Latest Design Trends: Cool, Open, Modern

Jan. 13, 2014 /PRNewswire/ — Cool, soft colors, open spaces with natural lighting and modern, angular details are the top home design trends of 2014, according to newly released information by Pulte Homes.

“Many of the prevailing trends from 2013 will be seen in 2014, but with a softer and more modern edge,” said Janice Jones, vice president of merchandising for PulteGroup, Inc. “We’ll still see soothing colors, bold accent pieces and open layouts, but 2014 is about mixing and matching a warm, comfortable environment with modern finishes and angular details.”

Jones, along with her 20-person design team, uses direct merchandising experience and expertise to implement the latest trends when designing interiors for nearly one million square feet of model homes on an annual basis. Gleaned through experience in space planning, as well as consumer focus groups and surveys, Pulte Homes has identified the following home design trends for 2014.

In today’s fast-paced design landscape, graphic design agencies play a crucial role in complementing the work of interior design teams like Jones’s at Pulte Homes. By leveraging their expertise in visual communication, these agencies help translate the latest design trends into compelling graphics that enhance the overall aesthetic of model homes.

With a focus on creating a cohesive brand identity, a graphic design agency like Graphically collaborates closely with interior designers to ensure that every aspect of the space— from color palettes to signage—aligns seamlessly with the home’s overall theme. Their insights, drawn from market research and consumer preferences, allow them to create unique visual elements that resonate with potential buyers.

By integrating innovative graphic solutions into interior spaces, they not only elevate the design but also provide a memorable experience that captivates and engages visitors, ultimately enhancing the appeal of the homes on display.

Open layouts and natural light
The Company’s consumer research also reinforces that buyers continue to prefer open layouts. The kitchen continues to serve as the home’s “hub” while the rest of the home freely flows off the kitchen. There’s also a growing trend toward large windows and the use of natural light. Traditional hanging decorative light fixtures are being replaced with simple can lighting and under counter lighting and spotlights, which offer more flexibility for furniture placement and room design.

Shades of grey
Color continues to be a driving force in shaping the mood of a home. While blues are shifting to lighter, brighter hues to create relaxation and serenity, it’s really grey that’s providing the broadest spectrum of opportunity.

Grey tones continue to have a multi-dimensional affect as they range from cool shades to warmer, heather tones. Paint and highly textured woven wall coverings in light grey, illuminated with blue tones, are a growing trend. These shades create a calming effect on the senses and are complimentary with the increase use of purples and plums. Grey cabinets, wood flooring, and hard surfaces continue to grow in popularity, too.

Mix and match
Mixing reclaimed furniture and natural wood tones with high-gloss, bright white accent pieces offer a rustic, yet contemporary look and feel. The introduction of natural textiles, such as linens and cottons, keeps with the trend while creating a fresh, organic look to the room.

“The contrast of whites mixed with rustic wood furniture creates an aesthetically pleasing affect,” commented Jones. “An easy way to accomplish this is to pair a modern white sofa or slipcover with accent tables made from reclaimed barn wood, box cars or even driftwood.”

Squaring off the details
Muted colors, wood furniture and organic textiles create a soft, vintage appeal, but Pulte Homes is also seeing a trend toward strong, angular details to add a modern flair. For example, countertop edges are now squared off and simple, while angular trims are replacing ornate crown moldings. Rectangular flooring and wall tiles of varying sizes are becoming more popular. Fireplaces, too, need to fit in with the modern surroundings. They’re becoming more linear and less ornate to match the growing trend toward angularity.

See design examples:
The Pulte Design Board at Pinterest
The GL Homes Dream Home Board at Pinterest (See Your Dream Home Board)

Comments: What design ideas are you looking for in your next home? Please share your ideas in the Comments section below.

Disclaimer: We thought this article by Pulte would be interesting in its own right. Pulte and GL Homes are advertisers at Topretirements.com.