Fresh Air Designs President Mary Kate Bedell shares her predictions for design trends that are here to stay
Photography by John Michael Simpson
Wellness
“We will see more kitchen design focused on the wellness of the homeowners and the food they prepare,” Mary Kate says. This includes creative storage solutions and new appliances; Mary Kate notes combi-steam ovens and refrigeration columns are popular choices for high impact with minimal footprint.
Kitchen Islands
They’re here to stay. “Islands are still on the top of most homeowners’ wish lists, if the space allows,” Mary Kate says. Islands are the center of the home, and with the advent of many built-in and under-the-counter appliances (think microwave and refrigerator drawers, steam ovens and trash compactors), there are endless possibilities for customizing an island.
Quiet Luxury
Making active spaces quieter continues to be on trend, including soft-close features for cabinet doors and drawers. “More appliance manufacturers are reducing their sones,” Mary Kate adds. Sones are a measure of loudness that can be applied to household units like range hood fans, air conditioners and dishwashers.
Sustainability
“This is still a big client request, to design and install long-lasting materials so they will have a long life span, which includes less replacement,” Mary Kate says. When it comes to intentional waste solutions, she says her customers often want more options for recycling and composting in designs. Biophilic design, the use of natural materials like wood and stone in finishes and furnishings and indoor/outdoor living are also important considerations as people continue to spend more time at home.
