Ask the Client: Where do you look for the latest trends?

We are always on the lookout for the latest trends for home and interior design. Whether a trend is function-based or rooted in the latest design aesthetic, we want to give our clients the inside track on fresh new ideas that they can incorporate into their homes.

But our clients are not just the destination for information on trends—they are also a wonderful source. We know that our clients are invested in creating a home that reflects their unique design sensibilities, while at the same time creating a practical living space that will suit their family’s lifestyle. This requires communication between our designers and our client to achieve that final result; one that perfectly balances design with the functionality, whether we are redesigning a kitchen, bathroom, or any other room in the home.

We asked some of our clients where they find their inspiration, and received a multi-media variety of answers. We found that our clients love to find the next big thing through a mix of magazine articles, websites, and television shows. So what were some of the top answers?

Magazines: Kitchen & Bath news magazines from Home & Garden were a popular answer in our client survey. With three versions to choose from—Beautiful Kitchens & Baths, Kitchen & Bath Ideas, Kitchen + Bath Makeovers—you can immerse yourself in everything kitchen and bath related. Another favorite magazine is Architectural Digest, arguably the ultimate home design magazine, where you can find everything from home design to interior decorating tips, as well as design inspiration from around the world. Clients also cited Traditional Home and Southern Living as favorite magazines; their expanded coverage of lifestyle and entertaining topics don’t just cover trends, but how they can be implemented into everyday living.

Websites: The Internet offers almost endless sources of inspiration, and many of our clients enjoy finding new trends online. HGTV.com is a popular favorite due to their broad coverage of everything in home design, from construction to gardening to interior decorating.

Television: HGTV made the list twice, this time in the television category; hosts Candace Olsen (“Divine Design”) and Sarah Richardson (“Sarah 101”) are particularly popular. Nate Berkus, discovery of tastemaker Oprah Winfrey, is another television designer our clients love to watch for the latest trends.

Other areas our clients cited as inspiration for trends include:

• Showrooms where one can get a feel for lighting and texture

• Television commercials featuring new products are a favorite jumping-off point for learning new trends

• Store displays for specific products, like Kohler, that allow the individual to get a feel for how a product would look and work in a home

• Another favorite place to look for trends is through world travel, finding new ideas by international designers

The most important aspect of incorporating trends into your home is deciding whether they will work for you and your family. At Cabinets & Designs, our designers will work with you to balance the practical aspects of everyday life with the latest design trends that meet your needs. Stop in and see us today to discuss your home remodeling project.