In the latest Messy in the Middle episode, Jefi and Ed discuss the push toward sustainable design elements, highlighting nature-inspired solutions, and mixed materials that blend modernism with a touch of the past. They explore forward-thinking features, such as wellness inclusions in both the kitchen and bathroom areas and the importance of strategic window designs to incorporate natural light. Listen as Jefi and Ed talk about the vitality of understanding these trends not just from a personal enjoyment perspective but also for optimizing resale value.

Key Takeaways:

• Emerging home design trends are steering away from cookie-cutter models, embracing nature-inspired designs, and mixed materials for a more personalized and sustainable aesthetic.
• Wellness features are becoming prevalent in both kitchens and bathrooms, indicating a growing trend toward health-focused home environments.
• The resurgence of natural light through strategic window designs is on the rise, blending the outside with the inside for a more organic feel.
• It's crucial to balance personal style with resale considerations when implementing bold design choices, as certain features could impact future marketability.
• Consulting with an experienced designer can provide invaluable insights and ensure that homeowners are aligning with both personal tastes and emerging trends.

Quotes:

“I think part of the trend of what we're seeing is moving a little bit away from all the super modern stuff, but more into those modern features are buried in a retro look. Functionality. So kind of going back to knobs and poles and different things." -Ed

"One feature that comes up a lot, just to put into the pile of ideas, is that a lot of people that are empty nesters love to have just showers in their house. Getting rid of a tub, I think, is a bad idea for resale because a lot of times families love to have a tub for small children. So it's a very expensive feature to change. It's not paint, it's an actual fixture." -Jefi

TIMESTAMPS

(02:34) Discussion on the emergence of nature-inspired designs in kitchens 

(06:15) The availability of design choices in the past vs. now

(11:51) Colors that support the spa bathroom trend: blues, greens, metallic accents. 

(15:33) Designing homes with passive solar qualities for energy efficiency. 

(19:57) Wallpaper as a way to add a punch of design to a space. 

CONTACT

Messy in the Middle: messyinthemiddlepodcast.com

Ed Billings: edbillings.com