Kitchens – What’s Hot & What’s Not for 2012!

2012 has brought an array of changes to the world of Kitchen designs.  Gone are the days of cherry wood cabinets, BRIGHT and WHITE are in!   

Goodbye white & off-white appliances, hello stainless steel and black!   

With the kitchen usually being the “gathering” place of your home and functionality being the number one priority, keeping this space bright and open is the way to go!  Here are some other trends to be on the lookout for:

Cabinets & Countertops

White cabinets with a sleek and streamlined look will really turn your kitchen around!  With functionality being the focus, islands with lots of storage have been increasingly popular as well as thicker cuts of marble and granite for the countertops.  A new trend that we’ve seen in the way of backsplashes has been glass tile.  It’s easily installed and can add just the right amount of color to your walls!

Appliances

As previously stated, stainless steel appliances are still in, but black is making a comeback!  Other popular appliances include cooktops with wall mounted double ovens and mounted microwaves, increasing functionality by creating more counter space.  As always, it’s best to look for and purchase energy efficient appliances to not only help the environment, but save you money in the long run!

Lighting

Often overlooked, lighting is an element that can drastically change the atmosphere and overall look of your kitchen.  Trending now are track lighting, pendant lighting and LED under cabinet lighting.  Track lighting can give area specific lighting, while pendant lighting not only gives area light but becomes a focal point as well.  LED cabinet lighting adds to the functionality of the counter space by giving extra lighting for prep work.  Lighting is another item which can be energy efficient, thus reducing costs and your carbon footprint!

So with functionality being the top priority & trend this year, keeping your kitchen design simple, yet unique, while adding in a splash of color is definitely the way to go for 2012!

Creating Your Outdoor Sanctuary!

Outdoor living spaces have become increasingly popular over the last several years.  These areas have turned into an extension of the home, essentially creating more space and giving more functionality to your backyard then just a place for the kids to play or dog to roam.  If you’ve decided to create an outdoor space, here are some things to consider before you begin.

First & foremost, what is the primary purpose & use for the space.

Will it be your zen zone, an area for you to relax? 

Do you want a more formal sitting and entertaining area?    

Or do you want a full outdoor kitchen, complete with grill, wash area and brick oven for those delicious pizzas you’ll be making?   

Whatever you choose, make sure you have a goal in mind and stick with it through the accessorizing faze.

 

Next, be sure to know your space!   

There’s nothing worse than buying all of this great furniture and then not be able to fit it all into the area you have created.  Measure your area, then sketch out how you would like the area to look when furnished.  This will give you a clear idea of where everything will go and you now have dimensions to be able to buy furniture that fits!

When selecting furniture, be sure the style of the furniture is compatible with the style of your outdoor space.  For instance, if you’ve created a rustic style space, than your furniture should be rustic as well.  You wouldn’t want formal furniture in a rustic space.  Also be sure to choose the highest quality furniture that you can afford.  The furniture will be more comfortable and provide years of use so you’ll save money by not having to replace it so often.  Another way to save money is to consider functionality of the furniture you are choosing.  A storage bench can function not only as storage but as additional seating, a table, even a cooler!

Lastly, as any indoor room would have a focal point, so should your outdoor space.  

Artwork, fountains and fire pits are all great focal points to consider.  You can also have a more natural focal point by using a tree, flowers and plants, or a trellis.

If you’re handy enough this is a great DIY project that can be completed in a few weekends depending on the scope and size of your area.  If you’re not so handy, or thought you were and got in over your head , consider calling a designer or architect for help.  DreamMaker is always here to make your dreams a reality, whether they are indoors or out!