Home Improvement and Design Trends Worth Watching

When it comes to planning extensive renovations or purchasing major appliances and systems for the home, many people don't appreciate the importance of being up-to-date on the latest products, ideas and trends. Yet, such awareness can play an important role in maximizing the value of your home. If you're about to make a major decision that will permanently change your home, you should know how it might contribute to the overall resale value of your property, both now and in the future.

Think For Today…Then Think Again
Certain trends in home style and function can have a long lasting impact on how we live. Ideally, you should make intelligent decisions about significant investments. Make sure you have up-to-date knowledge about current trends and the likelihood that these trends will remain popular. Ask realistic questions about what you're buying: Will it save you time and money? How long will you benefit from it, or how much will you enjoy it? How long will it last - and when might future trends determine that a replacement is due? Don't just rely on what a brochure or salesperson may say.

Security, Comfort and Convenience
With so many advances in increased energy efficiency reduced unit size, and improved personal convenience, it is especially important to be aware of the latest trends in home comfort, security and communication systems. In addition to their immediately measurable benefits, they are certain to be particularly attractive to prospective buyers, in the event you ever decide to sell. So, despite the added costs, it may be well worth considering the newest HVAC/climate control equipment or a security system with wireless sensors and telephone command access.

Renovating with Design in Mind
Of course, many utility or fixture upgrades, such as 200 amp service, exterior lighting, automatic sprinklers or large appliances like a built-in refrigerator or convection oven, also add value to your property. While planning for these items may seem obvious for major renovation decisions, it also applies to any interior design decisions. Remember that any plans that involve re-locating doors, windows or walls will affect your ability to install these upgrades now or in the future.
Even flooring has new trends designed to improve functionality and comfort. You may want to refurbish and existing floor, or decide on replacing it with wood, carpeting, tile or other options. Tile, brick or stone are ideal for bathrooms, sunrooms and mudrooms, but flooring experts now often suggest that they are not as practical in active living spaces like kitchens. In areas where you spend long periods of time standing, tile floors are known to be hard on your feet and lower back, and therefore are becoming less stylish. For these areas, pre-finished wood has become a popular choice and is now available in a variety of styles and colours. While carpeting can be warm and comfortable, the moisture and dust that accumulates in it's fibers can be a concern for families that are allergy prone. In the end, no matter what your choice, don't forget to keep in mind the effect the various flooring options may have on adjoining rooms.

Kitchen and Bathroom Considerations
Kitchen improvements should address design issues from the start. Even though most decisions are matters of personal taste, convenience and cost, you should be aware of certain trends and how they appeal to your needs and preferences. For example, granite countertops are extremely durable and currently very fashionable, but their natural coloration patterns tend to be in darker tones. If you prefer lighter or more neutral colours, you may have to go with material that requires come care or maintenance over time.

In a well-designed bathroom, stylish atmosphere is as important as plumbing and electrical features. So think about that soaker tub, bidet, multi-nozzle shower or whirlpool unit. Also, for added comfort, think about heat lamps, a towel warmer or a floor heater.

Cupboard panels, vanities, shelving and furnishing can also be style-sensitive, so stick with a classic design that is less likely to go out of fashion or a simple, clean look that can be more easily adapted to changing trends. Basically the less pattern relief, hardware and trim, the easier it will be to make design changes without additional construction or installation. After a few years, a new paint job and new hardware can give your home a refreshed and stylish look.

Choices You can Live With
Ultimately, you will have to decide for yourself what trends are strongest and most practical, and determine how to best capitalize on them. You'll need to check out magazines, websites, renovation stores, home shows and open houses to determine how your choices might work with different trends over time. The more you see, the more you'll learn about your own home's potential, and how you can enhance its value - right up to the time you decide to sell!

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