As we move into the next decade, here is a fond look back at some products and technologies whose existence has shaped the practice of interior design. These five elements have played a key role in placing my clients at the forefront of new technology with added benefits of energy savings and wonderful aesthetics.
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| A stunning fluorescent fixture. |
1) CFL's - Compact fluorescent light bulbs have changed how we light our spaces, particularly with state and national codes requiring energy efficient lighting. The energy used by CFL's to produce the same (and often better light) than incandescent bulbs is up to 70% less and CFL bulbs last many thousands of hours longer. Options in shape and size, color and dimmability, and availability and pricing have brought CFL's to the mainstream. Manufacturers have responded by producing gorgeous fluorescent fixtures. While LEDs (light emitting diodes) are predicted to be the front-runner in lighting, CFL's are still advancing and will remain a popular and functional option.
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| No VOC paints can be rich and neutral. |
2) No VOC paint. In response to concern for the environment, no and low VOC (volatile organic compound) paints have been developed with superior performance and wide availability. Nearly every brand of paint has a no or low VOC counterpart. In the past, you had to pay more and sacrifice quality when using these coatings, but now that difference is gone. With advances in use of tints, rich, deep colors and light, fresh pastels are all available. While an extra coat may still be desired for optimal coverage of rich color, with air quality in our homes a #1 concern, using these paints is becoming the norm.
3) Digital homes. From lighting controls to whole home systems, the availability, variety, and cost of wired and wireless systems has made this technology an important aspect of interior design. As our clients age in place, systems that are easy to use and offer specialty (including health) monitoring will become de riguer in the next decade. As I strive to use less energy, lighting controls that include occupancy and vacancy sensors, dimming controls, and timers, are a primary feature incorporated into residential design for my clients. Window covering controls, while not mainstream as yet, have a place in energy efficient interiors, to protect interior surfaces from damaging sunlight and maintain the temperature of our interiors when we are not home.
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| Controls for lighting, security and window shading create a stunning interior. |
4) Gas fireplaces. The use of both natural gas and bio-fuel over traditional wood burning fireplaces is on an upswing. Why? Energy savings, cleanliness, space constraints, and flexibility in fireplace design are some of the factors behind their popularity. Improved aesthetics, resolution of safety issues, and a variety of size options make using them in small spaces, baths, and apartments easy. Realistic logs have been developed, and other additives are available to create the look of embers without the smoke or residue. Both wall mounted and free standing models are available to create an ideal traditional or minimalist interior, and provide the atmosphere and warmth of a fire.
5) Cork flooring. There are cork flooring options for every style and nearly every application - living areas, bath areas, recreational areas, etc.. The diversity of color, size and pattern is amazing. Adding decorative inserts provides an end-result that is elegant and sophisticated. Why use cork? It's a completely renewable resource harvested by trimming the bark from a cork oak tree, leaving the tree and the forest undamaged. With the variety available, designs that were commonly done in wood or tile can now be done with cork. The softness and durabilty is better than wood so consider this as a flooring option.