By Christina El Moussa
You probably already know that I do all of the design work for the houses that Tarek and I fix and flip. I love creating spaces where people will enjoy living for years to come, so I spend a lot of time researching the latest trends and looking at the elements that give them a timeless quality. I try to avoid trends that are just going to be here for a year or two. This year, I’m excited about a few different design tips, and I can’t wait to use them in our upcoming flip projects.
Black Stainless Steel
Polished stainless steel has a modern, clean look that works better than white or black painted appliances. However, I’m starting to see a lot of black stainless steel appliances with a matte finish and I love them. These work beautifully in modern kitchens, and they look beautiful and understated with all kinds of cabinet finishes. You can put a set of black stainless steel appliances in any kitchen, and your buyers will love it, even if they plan on painting or replacing the cabinets later.
Complementing Cabinets
I love playing with contrasting textures and colors, so this one has me really excited. I love the idea of a set of darker cabinets up above the counter, with a matching finish for a built-in microwave and oven, then a set of lighter complementary cabinets below the counter. This mix-and-match style adds dimension to your kitchen, and if you use the right colors and materials, it can be really subtle. For example, you could work with a lighter and darker wood stain for a cool effect.
Making the Master Bath a Living Space
If you have space in your master bath, you can create a really incredible spa-like feel. Include a space for a comfortable chair or settee where your buyers can spend some time lounging and relaxing as they get ready to get in the shower. Everyone loves a bathroom that feels like an oasis, and you can create that for your buyers with a little bit of space. If you work with your stagers, you can give buyers a feel for what it would be like to have their own personal spa at home.
Large Format Tiles
Larger tiles are really popular this year in both bathrooms and kitchens. I think this is a trend that’ll stick around because it’s not only beautiful, but it involves less scrubbing and maintenance than smaller tile formats. Think of how much less grout there is to clean when you have larger tiles. It’s a big plus for homebuyers looking ahead to what it’ll take to keep the house looking great for years to come.
Deeper Counters and Drawers
This is another one that works for either the kitchen or the bathroom. Deeper counters mean more counter space and room for deeper drawers. That means more storage space and less clutter. Homebuyers will love you for adding counter and storage space to their bathrooms and kitchens.
These are just five of my favorite design tips for 2016. Don’t forget to play with texture whenever you can to add dimension in any room, and always have fun with design tips that create convenient and luxurious spaces for your buyers. When you stick to tips like these, you can be confident that you’re adding details that work for your houses and that aren’t fads that will disappear in a couple of years.