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Local News and Information

Notes from the President

Top Design Trends for 2017

Mike Croxall

President, Home Builders Association of Greater Chattanooga

 

Curious about the latest home design trends making their way to the Chattanooga and North Georgia areas? At the start of each year, the Best in American Living Awards (BALA) recognizes dozens of new projects from this past year that featured the most innovative layouts and eye-catching design elements.

 

Among a wide variety of award-winning homes, several design trends are evident and will be sure to gain the attention of those who might soon be buying, selling or remodeling a home. Some of these trends include:

 

Modern farmhouse. Demand continues to rise for farmhouse sinks, repurposed wood siding for interior design details and barn doors customized for a more contemporary feel that incorporates glass, white tints and metal hardware.

 

Natural wood beams. From remodels to new homes, wood beams left in their original state add a natural touch and create a focal point in interiors. Also, this year’s BALA winners included several homes with natural wood ceilings which add warmth and can be used in either traditional or more contemporary designs.

 

Shiplap inside and out. Horizontal shiplap – or long, overlapping panels of wood – is an increasingly popular choice for exteriors and is also featured in entryways, stairwells and living rooms.

 

Board and batten.  Many BALA winners used this type of wainscoting either as exterior siding or to add a classic touch to today’s contemporary interiors. Some designs featured a unique spin by adjusting the width of the boards to create a more customized feel.

 

Repurposed space. Designers are increasingly utilizing the space under staircases for more than just storage. These areas are great for installing bookshelves, displaying art or creating a nook for pets. One BALA winner even included an entire bar under the living room stairs.

 

Prominent wine storage. Many new kitchens today include floor-to-ceiling wine storage with customized wine racks, glass doors and display lighting.

 

White on white. A long-standing trend remains intact, as many BALA winners featured a clean combo of white on white, most notably in kitchens.

 

Big showers and tubs. Showers keep getting bigger and free-standing tubs have become increasingly luxurious. Walk-in showers with wall-to-wall glass are the most sought after.

 

Metal roofs. A large number of new custom homes in regions across the country are favoring metal roofs. The trend isn’t solely among modern homes, but traditional homes as well.

 

For more information about the latest designs that could be incorporated within your home, or to find a builder in your area that can create the new home of your dreams, visit the Home Builders Association of Greater Chattanooga at www.HBAGC.net.