Have you seen the fall fashion runways? Although plaid seems to be a perpetual fall trend, the classic print is hotter than ever for the upcoming season. Continue reading “Mad for Plaid”
Mad for Plaid
2015: The Year Ahead in Bathroom Design
This year brought us the use of matte black fixtures in the bathroom with the declined use of oil-rubbed bronze. Matte gold finish gained ground in fixtures, lighting and accessories – especially in higher end homes.
In 2014 contemporary bathroom design requests surpassed traditional. For 2015 I expect clean, contemporary design will still be most popular with curbless showers and suspended vanities incorporated into designs for continuous sleek tile floors.
LED lighting will not only be used in lighting fixtures on the ceilings and walls but also underneath suspended vanities and recessed to accentuate free-standing tubs.
My prediction for the most significant shift in 2015 will be in the request for semi-recessed tubs.
Homeowners want bathrooms that are easier to clean and the corners and crevices behind free-standing tubs can be difficult to reach. Installing a tub in a semi-recessed design allows the bathroom to look more spacious and modern while eliminating the need to clean behind the tub.
In addition to providing easily accessible storage for bath salts and other bathing items, the partial platform allows for additional plumbing options for the tub filler placement.
The semi-recessed tub installation requires skilled installers that can carefully craft a deck that follows the contour of the tub.
As the 2015 progresses, more manufacturers will make installation easier by offering half-skirts to consumers. Cladding the surrounding decking will become faster and easier.
The semi-recessed tub can also be installed at variable heights providing customization for homeowners and plumbing solutions for drain configuration in bathroom remodeling.
Leave a comment if you think this trend will take off or if you think it’s too custom to get a foot-hold and will flop. Here’s to a prosperous and creative 2015!
AkzoNobel Color of the Year 2015
As I wrap up my coverage of trending colors for 2015, things are heating up as a warmer spectrum of pinks, reds and oranges emerging, reflecting optimism and a renewed emphasis on sharing.
AkzoNobel, the largest color and coatings manufacturer in the world and maker of Dulux Paints, named Copper Orange as their Color of the year for 2015.
By closely monitoring the emerging social, economic and design trends around the world, a select panel of professionals predicts future color trends two years out.
“The overriding idea for 2015 is that people are finding new ways to add color to their lives and are developing a warmer and more caring environment for all.” – Heleen van Gent, Creative Director of AkzoNobel’s Global Aesthetic Center.
Warm and surprising, Copper Orange reflects a more positive outlook on the world while representing a new emphasis on putting the + (plus) in everyday. This flattering hue will surely be popular in the cosmetics industry just like the Pantone Color of the Year 2015, Marsala.
Copper Orange works well paired with neutrals. If you tend to shy away from color, go for small accessories and simple accents like this drapery edge treatment.
The Copper Orange walls are a nice balance with the dark cabinetry and make this kitchen cheery.
“It’s a “hot” color that evokes tropical fruit and flowers, Eastern culture as seen in Buddhist monks’ robes and, in the West, autumn’s warm glow.”
Express your Nomadic, adventurous side with relaxed decor and a textural application of Copper Orange.
Copper Orange can also be quite sophisticated. The small Copper Orange print is gorgeous in this gray bedroom.
I predict the popularity of Copper Orange will increase the use of Rose Gold, already popular in the fashion industry, within the home.
Copper Orange has been selected to complement all of the major trends that AkzoNobel has identified for 2015 – all inspired by one larger idea, “Everyday + Finding the wonderful in the normal”. For more on their trend forecast, visit www.colourfutures.com
Pantone Color of the Year 2015
The color specialists at Pantone have chosen Marsala 18-1483 the color of 2015, a rich reddish brown they say will be reflected in fashion, home decor and graphic and industrial design trends next year.
“While Radiant Orchid, the captivating 2014 color of the year, encouraged creativity and innovation, Marsala enriches our mind, body and soul, exuding confidence and stability.” –Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute
Vintage-y, earthy and hinting at the dregs of a bottle of wine, the shade will pair well with the grays and blues from past seasons. The color works with other neutrals such as black and beige.
Eye-catching but not overwhelming, Marsala is a color that seems to pop up every twenty years or so. What makes this color different from the burgundy’s of the 70’s and 90’s is a departure from being a dominating color towards an updated sophistication that gives this deep blush a feeling of balanced harmony.
The stainless backsplash and white cabinets keep the bright Marsala wall from being too overwhelming in this example.
This is such a gorgeous art wall and is a great example of the harmony Marsala possesses.
According to Pantone, Marsala will be popular in home accessories such as rugs and botanical prints.
I almost chose an image that was they more typical varying shades of dusty pink with green foliage but then I thought; “where’s the inspiration in that?” I hope you like this image better.
Marsala is a favorite among Bohemian and Moorish Inspired interiors. Paired with Golds and Turquoise this color can be soothing and rich.
I had a difficult time finding pictures that were close in color to the Pantone Marsala. Many were too Pink or Purple or too dark and more Burgundy. It’s important to me for the images to be close because otherwise I’m writing about a different color and not the Color of the Year. I’m looking forward to the makeup collection Sephora should be coming out with soon. If you’re like me and everyone else I’ve talked to you are counting down the days until you can debut your gorgeous pout.
For more images, visit my Color Trends board on Pinterest.