This article originally appeared on La Jolla Light
Building and design trends can be fun to follow, and many people want to experiment with non-traditional styles in their homes. If you know what you want, then go with the trends, especially if they fit your lifestyle and you plan to stay in your home for a long time. But if you are uncertain if a trend is right for you, if it will be outdated, or if you plan to sell your house in the next few years, commit more to the tried-and-true staples over passing trends.
Some trends can be cosmetic (paint, new hardware, new window coverings), but others will require low-to-moderate construction, so be sure to consider all your options before committing to any remodel.
OUTDOOR SPACES
One of the most reliable trends is the outdoor living space. Since we live in Southern California, our climate is reliably temperate, and even our monsoons and El Niños are few and far between. Therefore, investing in outdoor construction is a long-term win. An outdoor kitchen, with built-in stove or barbecue, refrigerator, even a wine fridge, and plenty of counter space can be utilized year-round and adds instant appeal. A nice element to this is that you don’t need a huge property to have a great outdoor space, and if you have a small kitchen and aren’t ready for an indoor remodel, an outdoor kitchen is the perfect solution.
Maybe you already have a showstopper kitchen and would rather utilize the outdoors in a different way. You can create an outdoor living room with an elevated deck, or by adding a built-in fire pit. To further develop your outdoor space, consider a covering such as an arbor or a solid roof or even go as far as a semi-enclosed veranda.
If you have a large outdoor space, current trends mimic the popular resorts, including large swimming pools with multiple features such as waterfalls and fountains to in-pool seating and creative water slides.
A trend that is hot at the moment is the courtyard, both front entry and interior. This can be basic, including an enclosed space with room for a small café table and a fountain, or something larger and more elaborate, with outdoor furniture and fireplaces. A courtyard is especially recommended if you do not have space for a pool or if you plan to remove your lawn to be water-conscious and want to make a better use of the space. An entry courtyard can be beneficial too if you live on a busy street and want to cut down on noise levels, or to create a greater separation between the city and your home.
INDOOR SPACES
Game rooms and home theaters have seen the biggest surge in popularity and are relatively easy to convert to a different use in a resale. Trends range from the easily transferred billiard tables and mini refrigerators or children’s play area to fully-installed wet bars and elaborate home theaters with stadium-style seating and state-of-the-art equipment.
Like the move in backyards to mimic the resort spa, so goes the trend with bathrooms. Some homeowners may still opt for a whirlpool bath, but those wishing to be more water-wise may choose to focus on a larger shower with a seat, shelves for bath products, and even a waterfall showerhead.
A trend that once held a lot of traction in kitchen design was the built-in desk, but now most homeowners find that they value the counter space or additional storage, utilizing a room for a home office or relying on smart phones or other portable devices to take their “desk” anywhere.
Trends can be fun, but it’s important to know what best suits your lifestyle. Whether you’re considering an update to your outdoor space or a full remodel to your home, to discuss your project with experienced professionals, please visit us at https://starnorthapartments.com.
