SPECIAL SECTION HOME IMPROVEMENT
cabinets are also sticking, bringing in similar hues
while adding interest to the space.
• Quartz and high-end laminate: Granite is making
an exit as the most popular countertop with a
durable, fresh-looking competitor taking its place in
the ranking: quartz. Quartz is harder than granite
and not porous, making it nearly indestructible and
easy to maintain. Don’t have the budget for quartz?
What used to get a bad rap is now stealing the show.
High-end laminate is now imitating the look of a
natural stone countertop. Don’t rule it out until you’ve
seen it.
• Golden fixtures: This year is all about
customization, allowing for more freedom when
choosing kitchen fixtures. Brass and copper finishes
are paired with slate appliances to add a modern feel
to the entertainment hub of the home.
spa-like sanctuaries sought after for relief from a long day. The kitchen and
bathroom are really feeling the love this season, with punch and pizazz being
added to personalize the spaces.
Bathroom
Bathrooms continue to gain importance as a space used for relaxation and
meditation. Bathroom sizes are larger than they once were, bringing in more
room for added features such as soaker tubs and extended shower stalls. No
room to expand the bathroom walls? Opt for an illusion of space with large
tile sizes on the floor and practical storage solutions to make room for your
calming sanctuary.
• Brass is back: Have brass hardware from the ‘90s in your bathroom? Don’t
get rid of it just yet! With rose gold and copper making their way into the
hardware scene last year, brass is also making a comeback. Chrome and satin
are still the frontrunners, but switch up the classics for a trendier look.
• Natural stone sinks: Granite is so 2016. Countertops are now boasting
durable quartz and hand-carved stone sinks. Porcelain will always be a
classic crowd favorite, but the trend is moving toward the natural look and
feel of stone.
• Patterned tiles: Ceramics are enhancing bathroom floors, accent walls,
and shower stalls with geometric designs and wood-like patterns. These
tiles are adding a decorative touch to a room that doesn’t often get much
decorating love.
Kitchen
Although homes are trending smaller, kitchens are getting bigger and
becoming the preferred gathering point for families. Formal dining room walls
are being blown out to create an extension to the kitchen. These larger areas
allow for more creative freedom when choosing dining sets, appliances, and
countertops. Customization in this room of the house is key. Love to cook?
Add specific features that enhance your cooking experience, such as pot-filler
faucets above the stove or double ovens for twice the cooking power. Not quite
a chef? Create an inviting space for guests to gather around with decorative
pops of color added by useful appliances that make cooking a breeze.
• Mix and match: Gone are the days of matching appliances. A variety of
companies are now offering new color lines of large appliances to mix and
match for a trendy look. Matte finishes are an alternative to stainless steel,
boasting a fingerpri nt-free surface that provides a sleek look. Two-toned
Decorating Trends
Decorating has never been so customizable. Focus on
your inner self and what makes you feel calm, relaxed
and comfortable in your home. This year is all about
self-care and bringing happiness into the home.
• Bring in the green: Plants not only add a pop of
color to any room, they also improve air quality and
purify the air. Choose plants that are easy to grow and
maintain for a foolproof way to freshen up a room.
• Geometric patterns: Farther down on the trends list
for 2017, geometric patterns crept up to #1 on the list
of trends in home decor this year. Add these unique
patterns with tiled floors, backsplashes, or shower
stalls. Too permanent? Try adding a funky wallpaper
or piece of art to the walls. Fabrics are also a simple
way to add interest to a room and can quickly be
changed out when a new trend comes along.
• Wood treatments: Aligning with the need for
connecting back to nature, earthen treatments,
like wood and stone, are allowing homeowners to
reconnect with their roots. Organic materials are also
making their way into home decor.
Continued on next page >
GREENSBURG SALEM
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S PRI NG 2018 23