Top Home Trends That Blend Style with Function
Fair or not, it often feels like we have to make a choice between aesthetics and performance.
Items that look attractive can be “all style, no substance.” In a similar vein, high-performing options can quickly fall into the realm of “no-nonsense and utilitarian.”
Fortunately, this does not have to be the case in home design. There are thousands of modern materials and design techniques that can effectively balance the lines between looks and quality–all without breaking the bank. Keep reading as we explore some of the leading home trends that expertly blend style with function.
Open Interiors
The open interior concept is one of the strongest trends in contemporary home design.
By tearing down interior walls and opening up space, homeowners are afforded greater design flexibility, enhanced energy efficiency, and a more spacious feel for entertaining guests.
There are a few hallmarks of open floor plan homes.
Large windows are a must, as they permit ample sunlight into the home for reduced reliance on artificial lighting. Windows also help shake the “empty box” feeling that can arise in open interiors with insufficient daylighting. A kitchen island is also central to the concept. It provides a smooth transition between the cook area and living space and is a key gathering spot for meals and get-togethers.
Stylish Soundproofing
If there is a downside to the open concept, it is that there are fewer barriers to prevent unwanted sound transfer. This is especially problematic given the remote economy, where many people need tranquil home offices for important work and school functions.
As such, mitigation has become a top concern in modern homes.
If you know anything about 90’s garage bands, soundproofing meant stapling egg cartons to every inch of wall space. Fortunately, there are more appealing–and less cumbersome–options today.
Sleek acoustic panels attach to interior walls similarly to a picture frame. They can achieve a noise reduction coefficient (NRC) approaching 1 with as little as 15-25% wall coverage, offering a low-profile sound mitigation option. A sound proof door can be used to separate bedrooms, recording studios, and/or home offices from more bustling interior spaces. They come in stylish oak finishes with chrome or black matte hardware to create a stunning focal point in the interior. Area rugs and acoustic furniture are other ideas for adding sound-absorbing mass, especially in those homes that use hardwood or other hard flooring options.
Multipurpose Furniture
Given the rising cost of housing, people are getting creative in their efforts to keep expenses to a minimum. This has spawned an increase in multigenerational and multi-family living.
With more heads under one roof, space is at a premium. Multipurpose furniture is a logical choice for doing more with less. Wall beds, transforming tables, and storage-integrated seating are some ways that homeowners can reduce clutter without sacrificing style.
Sleek Railings
Railings play a diverse role in homes. They promote safety, define space, and boost aesthetics. They are especially important in the aforementioned multigenerational homes, where everyone from toddlers to grandparents may need a bit of an extra boost.
Sleek railing options, such as glass and stainless steel cable, are becoming popular in modern properties. They are incredibly low maintenance and easy to clean. They work well with open interiors and other contemporary design concepts, offering clear sightlines to enhance a sense of spaciousness.
Fiber Cement Siding
There is something about rustic cladding that just speaks to homeowners. Despite advances and innovations in building materials technology, nothing says “home” quite like brick or wood planks adorning an exterior.
Unfortunately, modern homeowners simply do not have the time to keep up with the maintenance that these classic siding materials require. Brick must be sealed and wood painted every few years for them to maintain their protective and aesthetic benefits. In addition, wood cladding is vulnerable in the era of climate change, where wildfires and extreme weather events are occurring with increasing frequency.
A better option for contemporary homes is engineered fiber cement siding. Fabricated from a mixture of sand, water, Portland cement, and cellulose fibers, it offers elite resistance to fire, pests, and moisture for long-lasting performance. It can be manufactured in any of the best house colors–including wood-look options–and does not need to be painted in order to maintain its aesthetic charm. Most fiber cement options are rated to last 50+ years but will likely outlast the life of the home itself.
Balance the Lines Between Form and Function to Create Next-Level Homes
When designing a modern home, there is no need to make a choice between aesthetics and quality. There are plenty of stylish options that are equally high performance. From inviting open interiors to durable fiber cement siding, explore any of the trends listed above to adroitly blend style with function. For more of the latest in home improvement, explore the resources at A Little Delightful for ideas and inspiration!
