2011 Design Trends & Tips

With the new year just ahead, keep abreast of the design trends for 2011. What's hot?

Green design. As products and practices that are earth-friendly become more commonplace and affordable, more emphasis will be placed their importance. Tips: Buy bamboo towels and linens when yours are worn. Broke a bowl... add a bamboo one. Replace old cutting boards with bamboo. Select low-water use faucets and energy star appliances. Buy local products. Use compact fluorescent bulbs in fixtures.

Luxury. Rather than quantity and opulence, the goal is to surround yourself with luxurious appointments. Choose the stunning new glass tile over the traditional stone back splash. Tip: When designing your rooms, opt for simple lines and minimal embellishment, yet make every item in the space count.

Re-discover traditional values and heritage.  From paint colors to furniture, a revival of classic lines will come in new colors.  Cranberry, roasted browns, deep rich yellows, earth pigments and rich teal and turquoise are the colors to use. Tips: Select accessories, artwork and new wall colors in rich hues. Throw a bold striped blanket over the sofa arm and at the foot of your beds for a change. Textured pillows make a great statement.

Capturing light.  From accent lighting to mirrors to candles, the trend is to bring light into rooms. Look for metallics in wall coverings, and fabrics. Use them wisely and make a great statement.Tips: Flameless candles are safe to use everywhere and create wonderful ambiance. Change the shades on lamps to allow more light to come through, and consider a glass lamp base for an updated look. Add mirrors to reflect light from windows back into your rooms.

Less is more. From accessories to furniture, having fewer pieces and making statements with those you select is right. Look for quality over quantity. Tips: Rather than use many small items in a group, add one or two larger scaled pieces. Take away multiple corner pillows on your sofas, leave one and use bolsters in the center...better use and a new look. Re-purpose furniture in another area to open up a crowded room.

Integration of function into design. We've seen the panels on refrigerators and dishwashers before. New zero-clearance appliances make integrating function into kitchen and bath design better than ever. Ethanol fireplaces, drawer fridges, incorporated counters, sinks and drains, and better cabinet storage are all more commonplace. Tips: Fridge and dishwasher drawers are often more economical than using the larger appliances; tuck them into cabinet spaces when possible. Re-do the interior bath, laundry and kitchen cabinet fittings to have better use of the spaces.