Summer Trends for Your Home
Now that Summer 2023 is upon, let's talk Design as I share with you one of my most requested “trends” from homeowners who want to renovate their home. Seamless indoor/outdoor living has gained significant popularity in recent years, and is a perfect way for homeowners to merge their interior spaces harmoniously with the natural beauty, health benefits and relaxation of the outdoors. This design approach emphasizes a uninterrupted transition between indoor and outdoor areas, creating a fluid connection that enhances the overall living experience.
At the heart of this trend lies the careful consideration of various design aspects. One crucial aspect is the layout and flow of the space. Designers strategically position doors, windows, and walls to facilitate easy access and visual connection between the indoors and outdoors. This allows for a smooth transition and encourages a sense of openness.
Material continuity is another key consideration. By using similar materials or a consistent color palette, designers create a visual and tactile cohesion between the indoor and outdoor spaces. This ensures that the design flows seamlessly, blurring the boundaries between the two areas. Choosing a material which can be used in both indoor and outdoor applications is key for seamless unity of these spaces. A material like porcelain tile that is frost rated and is known for extreme durability is a perfect example of a material to use in these areas.
Natural light and views play a pivotal role in indoor/outdoor living. Incorporating large windows, glass doors, skylights, or operable walls maximizes the amount of natural light flooding into the space. This not only creates a bright and airy atmosphere but also offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. By integrating the outdoors into the design, homeowners can enjoy the beauty of nature from the comfort of their interiors. A large multi-panel folding or sliding glass door to open up an indoor and outdoor living space, or an awning window behind a kitchen sink with a seamless countertop bar on the outside to easily pass through those summer cocktails are two of my favorite ways to connect indoor and outdoor living.
In addition to the functional aspects, the aesthetic appeal of indoor/outdoor living is crucial. Designers incorporate privacy elements such as landscaping, trellises, or privacy screens to create a sense of seclusion and tranquility. Greenery and landscaping are also integrated to visually connect the indoor and outdoor spaces, providing a refreshing and natural ambiance.
The most important aspect of this design “trend” is the health and wellness benefits we receive. Biophilia is the innate connection humans make with nature. By incorporating biophilic elements into design, whether through use of plants, natural lighting, or even just the symbology of plants through patterns has been proven to increase productivity, support of cognitive function, physical health and psychological well-being. This phenomenon occurs through the three Biophilic Categories – Nature in Space, Natural Analogues and Nature of the Space.
Overall, the summer design “trend” of indoor/outdoor living creates a harmonious and inviting space that encourages relaxation, connection with nature, and the enjoyment of outdoor living. By carefully considering layout, materials, lighting, and climate control, homeowners can create a seamless transition between their interior and exterior spaces, allowing them to fully embrace the beauty and tranquility of the summer season and improve their health at the same time!
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