We’ve seen many trends in home design come and go over the years, and nowadays it seems like nothing is out of the question. Today’s homeowners have a broad variety of design styles to choose from, from modern farmhouses to eclectic bungalows and industrial lofts. But in Kelowna and the Okanagan specifically, one overarching rule has always lasted: taking inspiration from the beauty of the surrounding natural landscape as well as the Okanagan lifestyle.
In general, interior design is not only about creating a beautiful and inspiring space; it’s also important that your space is comfortable, functional, and reflects your personality. Sustainability is also changing the home building and design landscape, and it’s more important than ever to ensure that your home’s design will endure for years to come. Here’s our low-down on the top Kelowna home building & design trends to keep an eye out for in 2020 and beyond.
Indoor/Outdoor Living
Outdoor living spaces such as covered patios and decks have always been an important feature of any Kelowna home. But the trend is now moving towards blurring the lines between interiors and the outdoors. This trend of bringing the outdoors in embraces biophilia: the idea that all humans have an innate desire to connect with nature. It’s been suggested that incorporating natural elements into our environments has a connection to stress reduction, increased cognitive function and creativity, and general wellness.
Look for features such as large windows that take full advantage of views and let in plenty of natural light; seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor living spaces, such as flooring and colours to create a continuous flow; and folding doors which open wide to extend your living space outdoors. Also, Okanagan homes are prioritizing outdoor living spaces that cater to spending more time outdoors, with inviting lounge areas and even full outdoor kitchens.
Natural Materials
Along similar lines, you will see that many new homes in Kelowna focus on using mainly natural building materials to further reflect the outdoors and maintain it in your home. Organic materials are being used more often as design elements, such as natural wood flooring and cabinetry, and stone tile and masonry. Experimenting with different natural textures in furniture and accents such as throws, pillows, and artwork can further enhance the natural aspect of your home. And, don’t forget about the plants. Some thoughtfully-placed greenery is a must for any room, but it’s even becoming more common nowadays to see greenery incorporated as a focal point in ways such as living walls and indoor herb gardens.
Sustainability
The BC Building Code’s energy-efficiency goal requires that all new buildings be net-zero energy ready by 2031. We’ve already seem new homes and developments fully embracing this goal, working features into the homes through avenues such as installing solar panels and high-tech advances to reduce heat loss from windows and doors. Not only is this trend paving a way for a better future, but it’s an attractive selling feature for any new home or development.
Calming & Relaxing Tones
When it comes to colours, Kelowna homes again take much of their inspiration from the surrounding natural landscape. Subtle shades of blues and greys are set against a backdrop of calming white, warmed up with wood-tone accents to mimic the lakeshore. In the Okanagan relaxation is a big part of our way of life, and that peaceful atmosphere is most welcome at home.
Large Kitchen Islands
Having a kitchen island is one trend that’s grown more and more over the last decade, and it seems it’s here to stay. These days, kitchen islands are large, prominent features of open-concept living areas, designed with stand-out materials such as marble, granite, and quartz in beautiful patterns. Not only are they a stunning and eye-catching central focus of a kitchen, but they provide great functionality in adding another surface to dine and cook, especially when entertaining.
Wine Storage as a Feature
One thing you will often see in homes in Kelowna is a wine storage area, whether it be a simple wine cooler in the kitchen or a dedicated cellar room. Viticulture is a deeply engrained part of Kelowna’s history and culture, and you’ll see that reflected in homes throughout the region. In recent years, a trend has developed to include wine storage as a feature or wow-factor in the home – think wine walls and out-of-the-box displays that create a central focus and talking point in the main areas of the home.
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