Start the new year with style. Kathy Sorbe, owner and lead designer at The Elements in Storm Lake, Iowa, talked about trending home décor and design ideas, highlighting some of her favorites.
Single-cushion sofas
You won’t be losing your remote in this sofa as often. The single-cushion – or bench seat – sofa is a sleek, smooth option that Sorbe and her design team are seeing more and more.
“Many of our furniture companies are offering this as an alternative to the two- and three-cushion we’re so used to seeing,” Sorbe said. “Single-cushion sofas are a tidy and an incredibly comfortable option for any homeowner.”
Pendants
Pendants have a practical application – good lighting is essential where we work, cook or read. But just because it needs to be functional doesn’t mean it can’t be stylish.
People are also reading…
“Accessory companies have really stepped up their game,” said Kathy Sorbe, owner and lead designer at The Elements in Storm Lake, Iowa. “We’re seeing pendants that are functional, beautiful and very different from what you’d see in the lighting aisle of a big box store.”
And these lights are leaving the kitchen island. Sorbe and her team install pendants in foyers and even master bedrooms, replacing lamps that can clutter bedside tables.
Mixing textures
The contrast between two textures can actually enhance them. Smooth and rough or shiny and dull – the combination creates interest.
GO Home, a retailer that carries a line of vintage-inspired home furnishings, does this mix almost better than anyone, according to Sorbe. For example, the Sussex coffee table’s rough gray wood, paired with the chrome base make, it the perfect transitional piece for almost any style.
Reclaimed materials
Many designers and at-home DIYers are taking materials that may be tossed away and turning them into statement pieces that are one-of-a-kind.
“This large kitchen island has a very European feel so you might be surprised to know this piece started out as the gym floor at a Mennonite school in South Dakota,” Sorbe said. “Reclaimed and re-purposed pieces add a story and some history to your space.”
Motion pieces
These aren’t your grandpa’s recliners. Sleek and stylish, these pieces are substantial, but require zero clearance from your wall. No longer is motion furniture relegated to the middle of the room.
Comfort and function create the foundation for this fully powered motion sofa from Moroni – perfect to curl up with your favorite book or settle in for a Netflix night.
Writing desks
Just because this desk is smaller doesn’t mean you’ll get any less work done. Originally conceived for a lady’s bedroom or study as a spot to pen letters, today writing desks are demonstrating their function all over the home.
As our world becomes more wireless and paperless, these desks allow you to do more with less. Their size and variety make them an easy addition to any room.
Canvas wrap artwork
There’s really nothing that speaks more about who lives in a home than the art on the walls. Art brings energy, life and sophistication to a space.
“Canvas wraps are some of the most popular pieces of artwork we place in homes,” Sorbe said. Without frames, they are an affordable option for any budget. And with no glass, these relaxed, easy pieces can add visible texture to a room.
Plus, these pieces are light and easy to hang. Just be sure to choose a canvas wrap large enough to fill the space. Sorbe encourages her clients to buy big. If they think it may be too large, it’s probably just the right size.
