2020 REPORT: OUR TOP 3 TRENDS
Through the end of 2019 and into 2020, design trend reports have been tossing and turning under the keen eye of the public. The yearly routine of receiving "new trends" may or may not provoke a bit of anxiety. 2020 is especially noteworthy since trend-spotters are doing their best to forecast the next decade. We've read through the sources, highlighted the crossover and narrowed it down to our top 3 trends.
NOW, YOU MAY BE DOUBLE-CHECKING THE SOURCE YOU'RE READING, WONDERING WHAT DOES A MILLWORK MANUFACTURER HAVE TO DO WITH DESIGN TREND REPORTS?
While our day to day is entirely focused on what our clients are interested in now, our passions don’t abandon us. We may not be setting the trends, but when you love what you do and you love what you build, there comes an overall appreciation for the well-thought-out design that graces our spaces.
Inspiration: Photo by Phebe Tan on Unsplash
Inspiration: “Swan Cafe Interior Design” by Haldane Martin is licensed under CC by 2.0
Inspiration: Photo by Alex Person on Unsplash
1. WOOD IS STILL “IN”
Our world may be oversaturated in a lot of ways, but "Authenticity" isn't one of them - people (potentially your customers) want more of it. No matter how many wood-scented candles you strategically place, nothing can truly replicate the warmth and texture of wood.
If you're mulling over the price tag of authenticity, don't be too concerned. Technology developments have vastly expanded options in the materials world. When it comes to staying on budget, our recommendation is to take a mix-and-match approach. In your key, customer-facing areas, allot a bit more for materials. Then, with your perimeter and background build-out, you could try for a "match" in a more cost effective material; implement complementary textures and tones; or choose a contrasting palette.
Our project managers are well-versed in material options and our design support won't lead you astray.
2. THE MIXED MAXIMALIST MAY PREVAIL
We'll start adding more blank line items to our material order sheets now. Only time will tell if this theorized design trend will take hold, but rumor has it: the bolder, the brighter and the more mixed-material options, the better.
We were just getting comfortable being minimalists. Fortunately, coming from a simpler slate could make for a straightforward renovation process (if you felt inclined). From a neutral palette, you could easily add in bolder colors or change out your cabinet hardware to add more pizzaz. You could even select a funky wallpaper to have installed behind those minimalist, floating shelves. Your positioning is ideal because it's always easier to add these types of elements and extend the life of your built environment.
3. HOW DO YOU CATCH A SPECIAL RABBIT?
UNIQUE up on it. (Sorry, we like puns and cheesy jokes)
The unique qualities of your space will always set you apart.
EVERYONE LOVES WHAT THEY CAN'T HAVE, RIGHT?!
Working with Sundance cued us in on the possibilities of reclaimed materials and creating built-out environments that are truly one-of-a-kind. Maybe your branded space has a few, really key, truly unique, designed specially for you, components. The rest of your build out is meant to complement these pieces (a much more cost effective approach, too). This way, it's not overkill, it doesn't break the bank and you get to represent your brand however you see fit.
All that being said, Trends - Schmends, you guys. They're definitely fun to read and some may even pan out over the course of the next decade. Either way, we'll be here for you at the cross section of your design, manufacturing, function and budget: that's a four way stop.