Reintroducing this timeless, elegant stone.

Amid an explosion of colorful stones like Rojo Alicante and Empress Green, a new movement is emerging—a return to the classic contrast of black-and-white marble. This striking combination has long been a favorite in architecture and design, offering timeless beauty that never goes out of style.

The Bold Appeal of Black-and-White Marble

For centuries, this kind of marble has captured the imagination, from the mosaic floors of ancient Pompeii to modern interiors. Today, homeowners and designers are rediscovering its bold appeal, using it to create dramatic spaces that command attention.

Striking Contrast in Modern Spaces

Black-and-white marble offers unmatched contrast. The interplay between pure white and deep black creates a visual dynamic that is both striking and elegant. “These stones bring a timeless sophistication to any design,” says the team at ABC Stone. From checkerboard floors to geometric patterns, this high-contrast combination adds boldness to even the simplest designs.

Black-and-White Marble: A Timeless Design Choice

As the popularity of vibrant stones continues, black-and-white marble stands as a timeless option. It has even inspired modern materials like Cambria’s dramatic quartz slabs, which mimic the beauty of natural stone. The deep, undulating black veins against a crisp white background are reminiscent of traditional designs but offer a fresh, updated look. "These colors never go out of style," says the team at Cambria.

Enduring Elegance and Versatility

This classic marble treatment is more than a trend—it’s a versatile choice that fits any design, from formal to modern. Architect Morris Adjmi has used it in various ways, creating stunning contrasts with black-tiled walls and white marble vanities. This material allows for endless creativity while maintaining its classic roots, ensuring that it never feels outdated.

Whether used for a contemporary look or a classic aesthetic, black-and-white marble offers a level of sophistication and balance that transcends fleeting design trends.

If any of these stylish marble treatments have you looking around at your own floors, backsplash, bathrooms, kitchen, etc., and you feel that an update might be due, let's talk! I can come by and review your situation and discuss possibilities. And there are countless options available so we can really create youir perfect marble treatment! (your best solution might not even be marble) Upgrades of this kind always make my clients happy, and can change the entire feel and look of a space, so let's talk about it.

Choose a contact method below this blog post, or click this “contact” link. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com

And you can always call me anytime at (407) 743-2399.

Palm Leaf harnesses the retro charm of earthy avocado green tones from a bygone era. Nestled in the middle of a throwback collection of fun colors, this free-spirited shade channels a fresh take on classic ‘70s style. Why I love it: Vintage. Earthy. Relaxed.

Palm Leaf's Avocado Hue is Fit for Retro!

Palm Leaf effortlessly bridges the gap between old and new, infusing a modern feel into a vintage look. This shade shines as the center of attention or easily makes an impact in a backup role. With Oat Milk’s light, neutral hue providing a clean backdrop for retro styling, our Color of the Month adds depth, definition, and contrast.

Get the look: Geometric Shapes, Eclectic Lighting, Natural Wood Tones

Beautifully Blended

No matter the look, keeping a careful eye on balance is everything. While the 70’s Boho palette exudes the nostalgia and cozy allure that epitomize this style, it’s the perfect complementary blend of shades that makes it simple to maintain harmony in any space. The deeper shades of Palm Leaf and Antiquarian Brown lend a punch of bold, rich color while Jogging Path as a backdrop keeps it all tied together and even.

Get the look: Retro Furniture, Jute Rug, Greenery

Palm Leaf Helps Create Unique Color Expressions for Your Spaces

Seamlessly blending with Palm Leaf‘s subtle yellow-brown undertone, Pale Moss sets a cheerful tone with its earthy but bright, mood-boosting hue. Don’t be afraid to get creative and heighten the retro vibe with a simple, hand-drawn mural. There’s always room for self-expression when bringing your vision to life!

Get the look: Natural Wood Tones, Textured Rug, Brass Hardware

The 70’s Boho Palette

Do You Like the Retro Charm of Palm Leaf?

I can help you explore how to bring the relaxed, earthy tone of the Palm Leaf hue into your home or office, let's talk. I can guide you on so many ways that this delightful retro color might enhance your spaces.

And if you feel like other colors from the 70's Boho palette might be a good fit, I'd be glad to consult with you on what makes the most sense for where your ideas take you. Just give me a call anytime at (407) 743-2399.

I’m easy to reach – you can choose a contact method right below this blog post, and we can set up a consultation to explore this relaxed, cozy shade together. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com and you can also message me via my website contact page.

Design trends evolve rapidly, and what was once considered unattractive can suddenly become the height of fashion. The shifts in 2024 interior design trends highlight how old-fashioned ideas are being reimagined to suit contemporary tastes, giving new life to what was once considered outdated.

1. Asymmetric Furniture is Re-emerging as a New 2024 Interior Design Trend

Symmetry used to be the gold standard in interior design, representing order and beauty. Anything asymmetrical was often dismissed as odd or unappealing. However, in 2024, the trend toward relaxed, casual spaces has brought asymmetric furniture into the spotlight. This style encourages a more laid-back atmosphere, breaking away from rigid design rules and making spaces feel uniquely personal.

2. Beige Walls

Beige has experienced its ups and downs in interior design, often viewed as dull or outdated. But in 2024, beige is enjoying a resurgence, albeit in a more sophisticated form. The new beige leans towards shades of taupe and warm browns, bringing a sense of elegance and subtlety to spaces. This nuanced approach to beige adds depth and sophistication, reflecting both natural and artificial light in a way that enhances the overall ambiance of a room.

3. Ceilings without Lights

There was a time when a room felt incomplete without a central pendant light. A ceiling devoid of lighting fixtures was seen as empty and unattractive. However, the shift towards minimalism has changed this perception. In 2024, clean, unadorned ceilings are appreciated for their calm and refined beauty. Instead of overhead lighting, designers now favor wall sconces, table lamps, and floor lamps to create a warm, inviting glow that complements the room’s overall design.

4. Dark Woods are Coming Back into Favor as One of the New 2024 Interior Design Trends

For years, light woods dominated interior design, with darker woods considered outdated or too heavy. But as 2024 progresses, darker woods are making a comeback, appreciated for their rich tones and the character they bring to a space. Incorporating darker wood furniture or accents adds warmth and a sense of history, creating a curated, timeless look that blends modern and classic elements.

5. Tiled Floors in Living Areas

Tiled floors in living rooms were once avoided, considered too cold or uninviting compared to carpets or wood floors. However, the 2024 interior design trends have reintroduced tiles as a sophisticated option, especially when featuring bold, graphic designs. These tiles can transform a floor into a statement piece, adding both texture and visual interest to living spaces.

6. Black Kitchen Worktops

Light-colored kitchen surfaces, popularized by social media, led to the decline of darker countertops. Yet, in 2024, the luxurious appeal of black kitchen worktops is being rediscovered. The contrast between light cabinets and dark countertops creates a dramatic, sophisticated look that adds depth and dimension to the kitchen, making it both functional and visually striking.

7. Dark Ceilings are Coming into Vogue as a 2024 Interior Design Trend

White ceilings have long been the default choice to keep spaces feeling open and airy. However, dark ceilings are now being embraced for their ability to create a cozy, intimate atmosphere, particularly in dining rooms or bedrooms. A darker ceiling can make a room feel more grounded and inviting, encouraging a sense of closeness and warmth.

Embracing the Past in 2024 Interior Design Trends

In 2024, many interior design trends that were once dismissed as unattractive are being revived and reinterpreted with a modern twist. This year has seen a shift toward appreciating timeless styles and incorporating them into contemporary designs. As we move forward, these reimagined trends prove that beauty truly is in the eye of the beholder, and that what was once considered outdated can become a cornerstone of modern elegance.

If any of these re-emerging design trends spark your interest, let's talk! I don't know about you, but to me, some of these emerging trends are looking pretty interesting. I can help you determine what makes the most sense for your specific situation.

If you’d like me to help you consider the right approach for any or all of your spaces, contact me. You can choose a contact method right below this blog post. And feel free to give me a call anytime at (407) 743-2399, and we can explore some wonderful decor and design approaches together. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com and you can also click this link to message me via my website.

Discover why this versatile hue is taking over neutral palettes.

Beige has long been a staple in interior design, celebrated for its neutrality and versatility. However, in recent months, another warm, inviting color has stepped into the spotlight. Brown, especially taupe, is emerging as the new beige in interior color trends, offering a cozy and sophisticated alternative to the classic neutral.

The New Beige: Brown Takes Center Stage in Interior Color Trends

Brown, particularly taupe, is becoming the new go-to neutral. This shade, reminiscent of velvety cocoa, provides a striking yet subtle backdrop for any room. When paired with complementary furniture and accents, taupe can range from neat and tailored to soft and welcoming.

Experts suggest introducing contrasts to taupe to enhance its appeal and prevent it from appearing too monotonous. Pairing it with other natural shades can create a well-balanced and inviting space.

Is Beige Out of Style?

Beige isn't completely out of style, but it's evolving. This year, beige is being complemented by earthy brown accents that add warmth and sophistication to interiors. Inspired by global travel and natural elements, current color palettes include rich shades of nutmeg, cinnamon, ginger, and ochre. These earthy tones are perfect for creating a grounded yet elegant interior.

Brown’s versatility makes it an ideal choice for various applications, whether as a dominant color or a complementary accent. It effortlessly flatters well-drawn patterns and existing furnishings, making it a favored choice in interior color trends.

What Can I Use Instead of Beige? Embrace Brown in Interior Color Trends

Drawing inspiration from nature's rich earthy tones is an excellent way to create a warm and inviting space. Brown hues offer a harmonious blend that adds depth and character to any room.

For those looking to refresh their interiors, consider painting entire rooms in taupe, including walls, ceilings, and woodwork, to establish a cozy, neutral backdrop. Adding rustic wooden furniture and soft textiles can further enhance the warmth and comfort of the space.

Balancing brown with other natural colors like greens or burnt oranges evokes a sense of calm and connection to the natural world, making it a popular choice in today’s interior design.

Decorating with Brown: Tips for Creating Stylish Spaces

Brown doesn't have to be dull. When used effectively, it can create dynamic, inviting interiors. Here’s how to make the most of brown in different rooms:

1. Brown in the Kitchen

Brown pairs beautifully with green, creating a classic, comforting look reminiscent of natural landscapes. To add a dynamic twist, introduce unexpected pops of color, such as red, to make the space feel luxurious and sophisticated.

2. Brown in the Living Room

Browns, especially honey-hued shades, are gaining popularity in living rooms for their ability to create cozy, enveloping spaces. Combining different tones of brown with soft textures can result in a timeless yet contemporary look.

3. Brown in the Bedroom

Incorporating rich brown tones in the bedroom can create a strong connection with nature. This color, when balanced with other hues like terracotta or deep greens, fosters a serene and timeless atmosphere.

4. Brown in the Bathroom

Bathrooms are ideal spaces to indulge in deep, dark colors. Brown-veined marble and taupe cabinetry create a luxurious haven, perfect for relaxation. Adding layers of texture and warm lighting further enhances the space's inviting ambiance.

Why Brown is a Top Choice in Interior Color Trends

As trends evolve, brown has emerged as the new beige, bringing warmth, sophistication, and versatility to interior design. Whether you're refreshing a living room, bedroom, or bathroom, brown offers endless possibilities for creating stylish, grounded spaces. Its ability to harmonize with other colors and textures makes it the top choice for those looking to stay on trend while maintaining a timeless aesthetic.

I hope ideas of utilizing all these many brown shades (and yes, even beige) have inspired you regarding any possible upgrades, renovations, or remodeling to your home or business! If you’d like me to help you consider the right shade of brown for any or all of your spaces, contact me. You can choose a contact method right below this blog post. And feel free to give me a call anytime at (407) 743-2399, and we can explore some wonderful decor and design approaches together. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com and you can also click this link to message me via my website.

August’s Modern Brit palette plays host to traditional, British style with a twist. Deep, anchoring earth tones blend with muted, mid-tone neutrals to bring a fun and fresh feel to classic elegance. Our Color of the Month, Smoky Azurite, lifts this collection of subtle but stunning tones to an elevated version of an age-old aesthetic. Why I love it: Welcoming. Relaxed. Fresh.

Smokey Azurite Adds Kitchen Comfort

Craft an inviting atmosphere of laid-back sophistication in the heart of the home with a buttoned-up blue that knows how to unwind. Smoky Azurite’s captivating shade stands out against Black Fox’s rich, grounded hue to make a refined statement. Arrowroote provides the perfect neutral backdrop, creating a bright, clean canvas for the bolder shades to shine.

Get the look: Walnut Tones, Antique Brass Finishes, Earth Tones

Poised Elegance

Brimming with thoughtful details, this look seamlessly blends easy comfort with a sophisticated flair to create a cozy countryside atmosphere. A backdrop of Smoky Azurite’s relaxed vibrance infuses the room with freshness, lending a subtle contemporary vibe to the otherwise quiet and simple space. Adding rich contrast and a rustic note, dark brown wood tones make a beautiful pairing with the natural shades of this palette.

Get the look: Framed Artwork, Patterned Rugs, Ceramics

Smokey Azurite Welcomes You with Cordial Greetings

The humble hues of the Modern Brit palette instantly impart the warm and familiar charm of home to any space. Smoky Azurite’s welcoming shade casts its soft, soothing energy even in a supporting role, as Earthy Ochre balances the carefree, airiness of the space with its down to earth, rooted hue. A collection of shades as uncomplicated and approachable as these brings timeless, comfortable style easily within reach.

Get the look: Natural Wood Tones, Stone Flooring, Mixed Textures

The Modern Brit Palette

Do You Like the Relaxed Freshness of Smokey Azurite?

I can help you explore how to bring the comfortably refined tone of Smokey Azurite into your home or office, let's talk. I can guide you on so many ways that this welcoming hue might enhance your spaces.

And if you feel like other colors from the Modern Brit palette might be a good fit, I'd be glad to consult with you on what makes the most sense for where your ideas take you. Just give me a call anytime at (407) 743-2399.

I’m easy to reach – you can choose a contact method right below this blog post, and we can set up a consultation to explore this relaxed, cozy shade together. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com and you can also message me via my website contact page.

Create Your Perfect Outdoor Space

No matter the size of your outdoor space, you can turn it into an inviting area that you’ll enjoy year-round. You’ll find that it doesn’t take much to declutter your patio and maximize your outdoor space.

Pick a Theme

Your outdoor space should be a reflection of your taste. Picking a theme helps streamline your design options. Whether you're inspired by a Japanese garden with bamboo fences and evergreens or a cottage garden with wildflowers and cobblestone fire pits, it's all about making your outdoor space feel like a personal escape. Even a tiny balcony can embrace these themes by adjusting the greenery and furniture to fit the scale.

Divide Your Outdoor Space into Sections

Think of your outdoor space as multiple sections rather than a single unit. Dividing the area into sections makes it more functional. Carving out separate seating and dining areas can enhance usability. Benches are versatile for seating, accent tables, or even ottomans and are great for displaying planters and candles.

Incorporate Greenery into Your Outdoor Space

Using weather-friendly materials, fabrics, and furnishings designed to last is important, but a touch of greenery can instantly transform your outdoor space—no matter its size. Banana leaf trees and orchids can add a touch of nature, and high-design planters are a creative way to showcase your style.

Invite More Colors with Accessories

You can introduce color through accessories, even if you don’t have many walls for colorful elements. Patterned throw pillows that match your indoor color scheme can make your outdoor areas appear larger and more cohesive. Adding a water feature like a koi pond or waterfall can create a serene atmosphere with calming sounds.

Use the Seasons as Inspiration

Add pops of color in outdoor chairs, floral arrangements, and decor. For spring, bright colors inspired by nature can add interest to both small and spacious outdoor spaces.

Connect Your Outdoors with Your Indoors

Let your outdoor space be an extension of your indoor space. Pulling colors and textures from your interior into your outdoor furnishings and keeping the view between spaces open helps make both areas feel larger. This connection is especially beneficial for smaller spaces, keeping indoor conveniences close at hand while bringing natural light and views of nature indoors.

Take the Same Care with Your Outdoor Lighting

Outdoor lighting is just as crucial as indoor lighting if you want to enjoy your outdoor space after the sun goes down. Aim for a cozy, warm glow with pretty pendants, hanging lanterns, or string globe lights. Additionally, consider laying your outdoor flooring in an interesting pattern, whether it’s cement tile, concrete paver, or decking.

Plan the Outdoors as You Would the Indoors

Plan your outdoor space with the same care as your indoor space. Consider how you want to use the space, the size of the area, and the style you want to achieve. Draw a scaled plan and divide it into practical areas. For small patios or balconies, use plants and furniture to create separate areas for relaxing, dining, or cooking. For larger yards, create different zones for activities like relaxing, playing, or entertaining.

Activate Unused Spaces in Your Outdoor Area

Unused side yards, patios, or backyards can be transformed into functional outdoor spaces with a little creativity. Turn neglected or catchall spaces into useful outdoor living areas.

Remove All Clutter

Start by removing unnecessary items from your outdoor space to create the largest possible area. For example, if you have a large shed used for storage, consider removing it to open up the space for more functional uses.

Consider Your Interior Views

Design your outdoor spaces to support their use while also enhancing your interior views. Staggered plants in various textures can add visual interest and privacy while creating a calming view from indoors. Seasonal plantings and pollinator-friendly plants can offer dynamic, ever-changing views ideal for bird watching from inside.

Incorporate Different Seating Areas in Your Outdoor Space

Always include some variation of a seating area in your outdoor space. Even a small bistro table with two chairs can provide a comfortable outdoor space for entertaining or relaxing. Incorporating lighting and greenery, such as low-maintenance succulents, can further enhance the ambiance.

Add a Rug Area to Your Outdoor Space

Adding a rug can help define and cozy up your outdoor areas. It distinguishes different zones and provides a soft surface underfoot, contributing to the cozy atmosphere you expect inside the home.

Decorate the Walls

Just as you hang wall art indoors, you can decorate the walls of your outdoor space. A fresh coat of paint or stain on a fence and modern wall hangings can add dimension and interest to your patio.

Bring Different Elements Together in Your Outdoor Space

Take advantage of various elements to add interest to your outdoor space. A fire pit, for example, is both aesthetically pleasing and functional. Outdoor fountains come in a wide range of sizes and can enhance any outdoor setting, regardless of its size.

By incorporating these tips, you can make the most of your outdoor space, no matter its size. Ready to transform your outdoor area? Let’s get started!

Ready to Enhance Your Outdoor Spaces?

If your outdoor areas could use a makeover – or if you want to create a backyard oasis from scratch, please let me know and I can consult with you on how to create the outdoor space perfect for your vision and needs. The ideas shown here are a good start, but still just the beginning. Message me here, right below this blog post, or click this “contact” link, or you can email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com You can call me anytime at (407) 743-2399.

Create Joyful Spaces with the Dopamine Decorating Style

Move over, Barbiecore: Dopamine decorating is the latest colorful, playful antidote to boring interiors. This trend is all about brilliantly bold colors and patterns, eclectic prints, inviting textures, and a nostalgia-infused vibe that can't be missed. Named after the feel-good neurotransmitter, dopamine decor is like bringing back the carefree joy of childhood into your home.

What is Dopamine Decor?

Dopamine decor is inspired by the concept of dopamine dressing in fashion, where the focus is on wearing clothes that make you feel good. Similarly, dopamine decor aims to create spaces that evoke happiness and warmth. This style encourages going all out with vibrant colors and playful designs while ensuring everything ties together aesthetically.

Personalized Happiness in Your Home

Dopamine decor is deeply personal and individualistic. Each home can reflect the homeowner’s personality through thoughtful choices in color, texture, and composition. Whether it’s a bespoke piece as your living room focal point or handmade decorations for a cozy nook, the key is to make the space uniquely yours.

Pair Vintage with Bold Patterns

One effective approach to dopamine decor is pairing vintage pieces with bold patterns and bright colors. Think oranges, pinks, yellows, lime greens, and cobalt blues to brighten the space and keep the joyful vibes alive. In the living room, pops of color in furniture like console tables or end tables, and bright upholstery or quirky cushions, can add contrast to a neutral sofa. Pastel walls can balance the look while colorful elements on your coffee table or media console can enhance the vibrancy.

Colorful Fixtures and Accessories

Don’t overlook fixtures and accessories as opportunities to add color. In bedrooms or studies, bold geometric designs, floral prints, and abstract patterns can create a sense of movement and whimsy through wallpapers, floor cushions, rugs, and throw pillows. In the kitchen, vintage appliance collections and colorful backsplashes can add cheerful touches.

Eco-Friendly Decorating

Consider the environmental impact of your decor choices. Revitalize old pieces by purchasing vintage, recycled, or upcycled designs. This not only reduces your carbon footprint but also adds a personal touch with items that carry historical or emotional significance.

Starting with a Joyful Color Scheme

Begin your dopamine decor journey with a color scheme that sparks joy. Consistency is key—use diverse shades of the same hue or stick to a couple of harmonious color schemes. Bright colors on smaller walls and well-considered lighting can create a harmonious ambiance that enhances the overall feel-good vibe of your home.

Fill Your Space with Priceless Memories

A fundamental element of dopamine decor is making room for familiar faces—in frames, that is. Instead of impersonal art, opt for framed snapshots of friends and family. These personal touches can instantly fill your space with priceless memories and joy.

By incorporating these principles, your home can become a sanctuary of happiness, reflecting your unique style and personality. Ready to bring some dopamine into your decor? Let’s get started!

Has this feel-good happy mix of colors, patterns, nostalgia and style inspired you? If you’d like me to help you figure out how to incorporate some of this dopamine decor styling into your home or business, let me know. It takes a good eye to pull things together so they're not cluttered or overwhelming, and I'm here to help!

You can choose a contact method right below this blog post. And feel free to give me a call anytime at (407) 743-2399, and we can explore some exciting living room decor ideas together. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com and you can also click this link to message me via my website.

Capture the pure joy of carefree summer days as a child with June’s Summer Camp palette. A bright, effervescent collection where color comes to play, these fun-loving hues spark nostalgic wonder and inspire a unique and playful style. With a shade as cheery as Honeydew holding it all together, it’s easy to embrace the creative possibilities. Why I love it: Joyful. Cheery. Soft.

Honeydew is a Fun and Fresh Color

Soft yet energizing, Honeydew’s citrus hue easily fills any space with a fresh and frothy feel. With Fresh Zest as an accent color, you get the perfect combination for infusing a burst of vibrant liveliness without the boldness of more saturated shades. Bring them into a room with lots of natural light to meet the zestier, more expressive side of these hues.

Get the look: Graphic Rug, Eclectic Lighting, Light Wood Tones, Colorful Accents

Perfectly Eclectic

Summer Camp’s lighthearted optimism makes it easy to stray from the familiar in favor of something more fun. From mid-century modern to free-spirited, maximalist-inspired looks, these hues infuse a buoyant energy that can carry any design. The soft denim blue of an Aleutian backdrop keeps it light while bolder punches of saturated color excite the eye. Honeydew’s sweet, happy vibe permeates the room and balances everything out from above.

Get the look: Retro Furniture, Gallery Prints, Brass Fixtures, Large Floor Plants

Room to Be Unique

Whimsical color shines brightest in a unique design style that feels like an endless summer. A room saturated with Honeydew’s citrus hue becomes a blank canvas for personal style to come to life. Infuse a dose of Breathtaking’s breezy, calming influence while Jovial’s happy coral shade, hinted at only through accents, lifts the mood in a perpetual upward motion.

Get the look: Gallery Prints, Graphic Rug, Pastel Palette, Layered Elements

THE SUMMER CAMP PALETTE

Do You Like the Zesty Optimism of Honeydew?

I can help you explore how to bring the fresh, vibrant citrus pastel of Honeydew into your home or office, let's talk. I can guide you on so many ways that this lovely retro hue might enhance your spaces.

And if you feel like other colors from the Summer Camp palette might be a good fit, I'd be glad to consult with you on what makes the most sense for where your ideas take you. Just give me a call anytime at (407) 743-2399.

I’m easy to reach – you can choose a contact method right below this blog post, and we can set up a consultation to explore this friendly, happy shade together. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com and you can also message me via my website contact page.

Is it true? Could granite’s 30-year reign as the preferred countertop be coming to an end? 

I can’t say for sure. In fact, I think granite remains a solid choice. After all, it’s both durable and attractive — and it’s become increasingly affordable too. 

But there’s just no denying granite’s seeming decline. As homeowners opt for more modern kitchen designs, they’re also opting for more understated countertop alternatives.

Here’s a quick look at some of the countertop’s hottest contenders:

Engineered Quartz:

Perhaps granite’s top competitor, engineered quartz offers the beauty of stone without the maintenance. It’s tougher than granite, and it’s highly resistant to scratching, cracking, staining, and heat.

Unlike granite, which offers the unique qualities of natural stone, engineered quartz is largely uniform; because it’s engineered, there’s no choice of a one-of-a-kind slab.

There are, however, a number of colors and designs available — from stark modern whites to options closely resembling marble.

And, because engineered quartz is non-porous, it never has to be sealed like natural stone.

Wood:

Increasingly, homeowners seek and appreciate natural wood countertops — particularly easy butcher blocks and those custom-created by quality craftsmen.

While wood countertops can add warmth, balance, and beauty to any modern home, they also require a fair amount of maintenance. Because wood is susceptible to damage from heat and moisture, it must be sealed about once a month.

The best part about wood, though, is that it can be refinished in the event that damage does occur.

Soapstone:

Soapstone is an attractive, natural quarried stone that ranges from light gray to green-black in color. While the material is soft and pliable, it’s also nonporous (i.e., it doesn’t require regular sealing like granite). Soapstone is also resistant to stains and acidic materials.

The downside to soapstone is that it is susceptible to scratches and deep indentations. Light gray soapstone will also weather and darken over time, occasionally developing a patina finish.

The material comes in smaller slabs, so seams will be visible in soapstone countertops longer than seven feet.

Concrete:

Concrete countertops came onto the scene in the 1980s — and they’ve evolved a lot since. These days, precast concrete countertops are available in a number of different colors.

Generally, they’re flat and smooth, and they can run from 1.5 inches to 10 feet long.

While concrete countertops have historically cracked and chipped easily, recent innovations have made them less prone to damage.

Concrete is naturally strong and heat-resistant, and slabs can be sealed to prevent staining.

Stainless Steel:

There’s a reason restaurants use stainless steel countertops in their kitchens. It’s heat-, rust- and stain-resistant; it’s easy to clean; and it won’t absorb or harbor even the toughest bacteria.

The downside to stainless steel countertops is that they scratch easily — and they show it too. For this reason, it’s best to use a cutting board any time you’re prepping food on a stainless steel countertop.

Also, it’s a good idea to choose a brushed stainless finish that will help conceal any marks. At first blush, you may think that stainless feels ultramodern or cold, but a balance of stainless steel and wood can create a warm, timeless, and uber-functional kitchen.

Not Sure Which Countertop to Choose?

When you’re remodeling your kitchen, the most important question to ask yourself is this: Are you remodeling for yourself or a potential buyer?

If you’re remodeling for yourself, go with what you like best. (And if you love granite, by all means, go with granite!)

But if you’re remodeling with an eye toward selling, I advise going with a more neutral option. You’ll get the upscale look you’re going for without alienating granite-tired buyers.

If any of these kitchen countertop styles and materials have you looking around at your own kitchen, and you feel that an update might be due, let's talk! I can come by and review your kitchen design and discuss possibilities. Kitchen upgrades always make my clients happy, and countertop upgrades can change the entire feel and look of a kitchen space, so let's talk about it.

Choose a contact method below this blog post, or click this “contact” link. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com

And you can always call me anytime at (407) 743-2399.

For quite a while, open-plan concepts have been all the rage, but a certain little feature called "privacy" is making a comeback.

I'm going to share with you why closed-concept layouts are gaining popularity in interior design. There are pros and cons between open- and closed-concept layouts, but the current trend does seem to be moving in favor of spaces with more walls, more privacy.

All interior design trends swing on a pendulum. For a long time, open-concept layouts have been viewed as the most desirable and practical for how we've been defining "modern-day living".

In these spaces, the kitchen, dining room, and living room blend seamlessly into one, creating a sociable, light-filled area. More recently, however, I’ve noticed a gradual shift away from open-plan, with an increasing number of homeowners adding in walls rather than knocking them down, converting open-plan to closed-concept layouts.

Why Are Closed-Concept Layouts Gaining Popularity?

Open-plan living rooms, kitchens, and dining areas remain popular, particularly among parents of young children and those who love to host. There is still a love of kitchens and dining areas that are open and connected, particularly for families who want to engage with their children while preparing meals.

However, the current trend for closed-concept layouts is a legacy of the pandemic, which sparked a newfound appreciation for closed-off spaces for working, studying, or simply enjoying a moment of peace and quiet. While we are no longer spending quite so much time at home, we still value a layout that offers privacy and seclusion.

The Return of the 'Classic Six'

During the pandemic, the practicality and privacy offered by separate spaces became undeniable. The resurgence of the classic "New York Six" layout is a testament to this shift. This layout, also known as the "Classic Six," refers to the apartment floor plans with six rooms – a formal dining room, living room, kitchen, two bedrooms, and a bathroom. These were common before the 1940s. This trend marks a significant shift from the open floor plans that dominated the previous decade, underscoring a renewed appreciation for distinct, separate spaces.

Maximalist, Playful Trends

The trend for closed-concept layouts isn't solely down to the pandemic. It's also influenced by other interior design trends dominating right now. Instead of closed or open concept, we’re seeing fewer one-size-fits-all homes, and more families are choosing the style that specifically caters to what they need.

Maximalism and dopamine design are really trendy right now. Those styles lend themselves best to separated spaces due to the abundance of color, texture, and personality involved. When you indulge in this design style, you’re likely curating smaller, divided spaces so as to not overwhelm one open space with tons of visual stimuli.

As an aside, dopamine design features brilliantly bold colors and patterns, eclectic prints, inviting textures, and a nostalgia-infused, unmissable vibe. Named for the feel-good neurotransmitter, dopamine decorating—an offshoot of “dopamine dressing” in the fashion world—brings back memories of a carefree childhood when the bedroom walls had your favorite celebrity posters, playful signs, eccentric lights, and objects that elicited a deep sense of joy.

FAQs

How Do I Choose Between an Open and Closed-Concept Layout?

It comes down to what you prefer, but the size of your property is also a key consideration. City apartments often need an open kitchen because, otherwise, they would likely lose any daylight in the kitchen and dramatically reduce the perception of the size of the living area. It also depends on how much storage space you need and your tolerance for mess. Incorporating a kitchen into a communal living area brings its mix of benefits and drawbacks, including the necessity for a perpetually pristine kitchen and the potential sacrifice of valuable wall space that could serve for storage or house a dining area.

What Are the Benefits of Closed-Concept Layouts?

In a closed-concept layout, the kitchen is distinct from other living areas, effectively isolating cooking odors, sound, and visual clutter. This separation keeps the culinary chaos concealed, allowing the rest of the home to retain its aesthetic appeal and functionality without the constant need for cleanliness. The compartmentalization inherent in closed-concept layouts permits more precise control over heating, cooling, and lighting on a per-room basis, avoiding the energy waste associated with conditioning unoccupied areas.

Will Open-Concept Go Out of Style?

I don't think so. The open concept is great for people who like to entertain and for families with small kids. This layout promotes interaction and brings everyone together by allowing everyone to be in the same room.

The Bottom Line is: What's Your Preference?

If you're suddenly looking at your spaces and thinking, 'hmm... I wonder...', I can always come visit and evaluate your current situation and advise you on how to achieve the approach you're envisioning. Just contact me and let me know – I'm here to help. You can choose a contact method right below this blog post. And feel free to give me a call anytime at (407) 743-2399, and we can explore some wonderful decor and design approaches together. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com and you can also click this link to message me via my website.