Spring is here!

Spring is here! The snow is melting, Easter is coming, and Real Estate sales are climbing.

This typically is the time when folks get out and begin spring cleaning, and then become inspired to make some changes. The Eureka moment happens and suddenly people are wall papering (a new trend), painting (watch for the Pantone colour of the year), installing new kitchens and designing new baths.

The trends in home styling are very exciting and some, of course, have already begun to surface‎ here in Ottawa.

Texture evidently is in and you will see it everywhere – in fabric, tile, and natural stone. Well known, designer favourite tile companies Ann Sacks and Walker Zanger, both from the U.S., have revealed gorgeously detailed textured tiles in their new lines and local designer Lindsay Mullaly has started using textured natural stone surfaces in her projects.

I loved the Antolini textured stone I saw in a recent posting on Design Milk from the show. As I mentioned earlier, I have seen this used recently in combination with exquisite custom, walnut cabinetry for a kitchen. The use of these organic materials creates a relaxed, naturally comfortable feeling in a space that is unique.

The show suggests that there is a retro look surfacing and wooden handles and drawer pulls are popular. It all feels kind of revitalized 70s in a way with exciting, vibrant wallpapers out there as well. I love some of it, and other stuff not so much, but variety makes life interesting.

The Kitchen and Bath Industry Show in Las Vegas recently rolled out to all what is currently trending.

You may have seen that stainless is getting colourized. Kitchen Aid for a few months has been showing graphite, stainless steel appliances as well as black stainless which is becoming quite trendy.

Don’t be surprised when you see texture surfacing on faucets. Indeed, not only texture on faucets but mixing metals and materials on faucets is a new direction seen at the show.

‎I think it is exciting and a welcome introduction to a market that frankly has become tired and in need of something new.

Bring it on!