3 interior design predictions for 2016

How will new homes be designed and decorated in 2016? It is my belief that many new homebuyers will focus on purchasing homes that include features that will improve the quality of their life by incorporating technology to save them time and money. They will also look to homes that are designed incorporating the extension of their home in outdoor spaces, which will improve their recreation time. And I am excited about a new emerging look for appliances to jazz up kitchens. These are my interior design predictions for what the top 3 trends will be in 2016:

1) More smart home technology

It seems there is an app for almost everything we can think of with more being developed every day. The new home market has and will continue to be a major player in this field. Smart technology in homes has allowed for easy control of safety features, home temperature, lighting and even appliances.

Home automation systems are able to control music, temperature, lighting and security all from one device - Via freshome.com

Keyless entry makes life simpler with features such as Bluetooth access and even timed locks for friends and houseguests- Via popularmechanics.com

Stacked washer and dryer combinations now come with activation abilities and controls while outside the home - Via Pinterest

Innovation in shower technology has allowed for water temperature control, pressure control and soothing music - Via Pinterest

2) Outdoor spaces as an extension of indoor spaces

As we see an increase in the variety of outdoor lounge furniture options, we’re also seeing a preference for outdoor retreats, from the comfort of your own home. This calls for a seamless blending of the indoor living space to the outdoor space.

Via Pinterest

Our award-winning model home design last year featured a rooftop terrace. It was a big hit with those that purchased at the Geranium Homes’ site. Look for more expansive outdoor spaces in future home designs.

Terrace on Model S1 Uptownes At Cardinal Point by Geranium Homes

The condo market will also continue to offer ways to improve the outdoor experience with green spaces, private balconies, exclusive parkettes, rooftop terraces (including barbeque areas) and proximity to parks and nature trails. This is attractive for homebuyers who want to be at the hub of everything and close to transportation.

Imagine Condos – Parkette, Rooftop Terrace and nearby Scarborough Bluffs

3) Black stainless steel appliances

I am really excited for the opportunity to specify black stainless steel appliances in a kitchen in 2016. I believe this is an emerging trend that will catch on. Don’t worry that your stainless appliances will become a thing of the past however, as stainless will continue to be a mainstay. I love that you can integrate black stainless steel into modern, transitional and traditional kitchens.

New KitchenAid black stainless appliances integrated into a modern kitchen - Via Pinterest

New Samsung black stainless steel appliances integrated into a transitional kitchen - Via Pinterest

KitchenAid Range integrated into a traditional kitchen - Via Pinterest

Combining Bertazzoni Black with Stainless Range, custom hood and stainless appliances effectively - Via Pinterest

We’d love to you hear from you! Let us know what you think of these three predictions!

Jo-Ann Capelaci is president and principal interior designer of Colours & Concepts Inc. The award winning company specializes in model homes and colour and upgrade selections for builders. They have been helping new home buyers choose finishes for their homes for over 20 years. Jo-Ann is dedicated to helping new home buyers create a model home feeling in their new home. Look for future articles on other topics to assist in decorating and designing your new home.