SPECIAL SECTION HOME IMPROVEMENT
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 fingerprint-free surface that provides a sleek look . Two-toned 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 .
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 full-proof 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 .
• Metallics : Brass is the “ new and now ” metallic . Gone are the days of rose gold and slowly fading out of the spotlight is copper . Silver metallics remain a favorite to many , both for accent pieces and hardware .
• Intense paint colors : Deep hues are trending in 2018 , bringing pops of color to all rooms of the house . While too much of a good thing can make it feel like it ’ s midnight in the middle of the day , use deeper colors for a dramatic accent wall or as a modern backsplash .
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MONROEVILLE ❘ SPRING 2018 21