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10 Home Design Trends that Defined 2017

Every December it’s hard not to turn around and look back across the calendar at styles and design elements that flourished over the year. Each year is a little different and we’re always on the lookout for the next “trend” to turn full blown “movement”.

From our vantage point, the design trends that defined 2017 included reconnecting to the outdoors, embracing smart(er) technology and enjoying a variety of indoor activity spaces. At the same time, we saw the return to a simpler lifestyle through relaxing retreat spaces that allow homeowners to disconnect from the stresses of daily life. Whether single- or multi-family, new construction or remodeling, homeowners (and would-be homeowners) are requesting and responding to these design trends.

Here are the top 10 home design trends of 2017 that stood out to us.

Blending Indoor and Outdoor Environments

The indoor/outdoor lifestyle is quickly transitioning from “trend” to “movement”. Once limited to seasonal barbecues and pool parties, the traditional back patio has transformed into a year-round destination space. Outdoor environments range from fully equipped kitchens with casual dining areas to family living and entertainment rooms. Expansive glass-paneled walls and doors provide sweeping views and efficient circulation. Homeowners also welcomed nature inside through terrariums, green walls and lots of natural light.

Entertainment and Recreation Spaces

A variety of lifestyle areas hit our home design trend list this year — from high-tech home theater spaces to indoor sport courts that feature basketball courts, gyms or swimming pools. These newly defined areas provide families a variety of activity options without leaving home.

Next-Generation Smart Technology

Increasingly sophisticated smart home technology enables homeowners to have complete control of their home’s systems — including lights, temperature, locks and security — with the push of a button or a simple voice command. The availability of more affordable, user-friendly interfaces contributes to a seamless user experience.

Tech-Free Sanctuaries

To combat technology overload, homeowners are carving out cozy retreat spaces in new home design and reconstruction projects where they can relax and unplug. Simple décor, comfortable furniture, calming colors and lots of light combine to create a soothing atmosphere to unwind and support these digital-free zones.

Bold, Dark Colors

Though light-colored walls continue to dominate, the rich hues of black, chocolate brown, saturated colors and jewel tones are growing in popularity. Even neutral shades and window trim are becoming much bolder as homeowners embrace darker colors.

Textures

To add depth and warmth to a room, savvy homeowners are looking for help to integrate textured fabrics and materials — from hanging baskets and wicker stands to brushed brass tables and dimensional wallpapers. Rough textures can be offset with soft velvet or hand-knit wool throws and smooth metal side tables, mirrors and ceramic accents.

Local Materials

Inspired by the farm-to-table restaurant trend prevalent in regional food scenes, homeowners are motivated to have local materials and design motifs designed into their interior home environments. The surroundings are reflected in the selection of furniture, lighting, flooring, hardware and accessories.

Handmade Décor

The resurgence of macramé, crochet, decoupage and all things handmade reflects a yearning for nostalgia. Art glass, antique furniture and craft pieces also contribute to vintage environments, adding on-trend texture and character.

Statement Ceilings

The “fifth wall” has been elevated from an understated or even forgotten surface to a prominent canvas for showcasing dramatic color, texture and materials. Some popular ceiling alternatives include tin, wooden beams, textured wallpaper and embossed foam ceiling tile. Additionally, architects and builders have seen an increase in requests for dramatic recessed ceilings with hidden light features.

Sustainability

A growing awareness of the connection between sustainability and health is compelling homeowners to choose non-toxic, environmentally responsible building materials, fixtures and furnishings. In response to soaring energy costs and the rate of natural disasters, some are choosing to reduce their reliance on the grid by harnessing energy from the sun with energy-efficient windows and solar roof tiles.

Future home design trends?

While we don’t have a crystal ball, here are a few home design trends that we believe are on the horizon in 2018:

Geometric wall patterns
Intense colors
Wood and metallic treatments
Concrete accents
Floral prints
Vintage lighting