Design Trends in 2016 Highlight FAMILY

Less Technology. More Family.

When I began researching the top design trends for 2016, I found a common theme. The focus was more on the actual LIVING space. I saw more reading and reflection spaces, more removal of TV's from bedrooms, and even removing TV from the living room! Are we finally getting so overwhelmed with electronics and technology that we can start getting back to the basics of what makes a house a home?

Formal Dining Rooms 

The days of eating at the kitchen nook, or even in the living room, are becoming a thing of the past! Sitting down around the table and enjoying a meal is finally trending again in 2016. Not only does this give you the opportunity to bust out the fine china every once in a while, it also has huge health benefits for your family! Having dinner together around the table is shown to promote communication between parents and children. It fosters feelings of love and security and who knows, you might learn something new about each other! In addition to the emotional benefits, eating together can also provide health benefits as well. Home cooked meals around the table are usually prepared healthier and encourage children to expand their pallet, with new foods. Not all families can pull off dinner around the table 7 nights a week but with the trends of a creating a formal dining rooms on the rise...you might as well try out a meal in there as often as possible!

Tech Free Living Room

When was the last time you walked in to a living room and did not see a TV? Doesn't happen very often, but that could change. Removing television from living rooms in happening more and more. Remember meaningful conversations, board games and books? Well these things could make a comeback if predictions are correct. 

Sun-rooms

 

This may be my favorite trend, and one that I may follow in the VERY near future. For those of us who live in climates that do not deliver year round sunshine and warmth, sun rooms provide a wonderful alternative. These bright sitting rooms are wonderful for catching up on reading, crafting, or even a quiet drink after dark. Ceiling to floor windows are not necessary to enjoy this trend. Even a room with large windows and natural light will give you the tranquil feeling a sun room intends. 

The (Not So) Sterile Bathroom

Time to transform your bathroom from a quick stop to a luxurious getaway. Not all of us have the million dollar bathroom with the fireplace and deep jet tub, but that doesn't mean we cant make the most of it. The addition of custom lighting, statement mirrors and updated decor may be all it takes to transform your bathroom into a quiet escape. Time to trade in the fish soap dish and mismatched towels for a few statement pieces to provide a quick transformation.