Design Trends - Article by Alinda Morris

As a realtor I act as a connector for my clients. My job is to provide you with everything you need to buy, sell, and protect your investment long term. My list of who’s who in the area of home ownership is LONG. Today I want to introduce you to Alinda Morris, the principal designer and owner of Alinda Morris Interior Design LLC, based right here in Gig Harbor. Alinda is widely admired for her ability to create, invent, explore, and innovate. She is highly recommended for her insightful perspective on architecture and interior design.

DESIGN TRENDS 2 YEARS, 5 YEARS, 10 YEARS+ 

INTERIOR DESIGN TRENDS COME AND GO. NOT EVERY HOME RENOVATION OFFERS A GREAT RETURN ON INVESTMENT.

If you want the most bang for your investment dollar, no matter how long you plan on staying in your home, upgrade your lighting. Create a layered lighting plan. The number-one way to make a room look luxurious is with dim lighting.

PRO TIP: Keep your most expensive pieces at eye level and always layer your lighting.

2 YEARS

A fresh coat of paint is the most cost-effective way to freshen up a space. You can use paint to update everything from cabinets to a dingy brick fireplace and even countertops. If you want an accent-architectural element, instead of painting an accent wall, think wall coverings. If you really want a bold statement without the commitment, consider removable wallpaper like Tempaper. 

If you want to update your space but are staying in your home long enough to enjoy it, consider investing in high-quality furniture (in standard sizes and neutral colors). Even if you move every 2-4 years you will always be surrounded by beautiful things. Fast furniture is an unfortunate trend and can be dangerous (always secure leaning mirrors and dressers, even low ones). 

Upholstery tips

Invest in the best you can afford. You can value engineer case goods like bookcases and end tables, but upholstery touches your body every day. It should be soft and durable and built to last. PRO TIP: A little customization can go a long way. You can make a decent sofa look amazing with custom pillows. You can also make a custom sofa look unfortunate with inexpensive (flat) pillows. Please don’t do that. 

Pro styling tips

Invest in large-scale art. Incorporate texture. Use a large rug to anchor your furniture grouping. 

5 YEARS  

If you own a home and want to see some return on your investment, a remodel really has a 10-year life cycle. If you plan on staying in your current home for 3-5 years, consider new paint and window treatments. 

Kitchen or bath refresh

If your cabinets are in good shape (inside and out) and you don’t want to change the layout of your space, you are a good candidate for a cabinet reface (new cabinet doors and drawer fronts, but not new cabinets), new hardware, new countertops, and a fresh tile backsplash. If you want to add some luxury to your cooking experience, upgrade your appliances.

Custom window treatments

Custom window treatments are an investment but they can really make a huge difference.

Pro styling tips

Make sure your curtains hit the floor. Custom furnishings. Think small: even if you have a large space, create several conversation areas to keep it cozy. 

10 + YEARS

If you love your home and plan on staying a while, this is a great time to plan a large-scale remodel. If you’re going to spend money on your home, the kitchen is a great place to start; next is the master bath. Keep resale in mind: stick with a neutral color scheme. Everyone wants a light and bright home with an open concept kitchen and hardwood floors. 

Pro styling tips

For kitchen and bath planning, stick with standard sizes recommended by the national kitchen and bath industry. A standard countertop is 36”. Enjoy your home but don’t over customize. Flooring is one of the most expensive items to upgrade but cohesive flooring can really modernize your space.