(BPT) – Looking for ways to switch up your style this year? From the right patterns and colors to impressive accents, the latest home design trends will keep your space looking fresh and fabulous in 2014.
“Now more than ever, homeowners are willing to experiment with design,” says Taniya Nayak, interior designer and DIY television personality. “The start of the new year is the perfect time to add character and personality with unique details, patterns and pops of color.”
Here are the top five home decor trends Nayak predicts will make a big impact in 2014:
* Painted detail on furniture pieces
A hot trend in 2014 is to bring flea-market furniture back to life with painted patterns and details. “Refurbishing old furniture pieces is a popular – and easy – look to achieve,” says Nayak. “All you need is a little bit of paint and a lot of creativity.”
New pre-cut, patterned painter’s tape makes this simple project much easier. FrogTape Shape Tape is available in three of the most on-trend patterns: chevron, wave and scallop. Before painting, simply apply the tape in the desired pattern on a hand-me-down or thrift store find to create a custom piece for your home. Plus, since Shape Tape is treated with patented PaintBlock Technology, you’ll create super-sharp lines and help prevent paint bleed.
* White hot
White is a mainstay in home design. It’s timeless, classic and extremely versatile. In 2014, try pairing white with different textures, like natural wood. You’ll create a unique focal point while highlighting other warm features in the room, as well. “Another method is to create contrast with white. Use a single, bold accent color, like yellow, fuchsia or navy, to move your eye across the space,” Nayak recommends. By simply rethinking how to use white, your home will be a warm and inviting haven all year long.
* What’s old is new again: vintage details
You can create a home filled with vintage details, regardless of the age of your house. In 2014, try using muted color palettes, like gray, taupe or certain shades of green or rose, and industrial accents to transform its appearance. “Incorporating pieces of distressed wood will also add to the overall vintage effect,” adds Nayak. “You can create this look – even with pristine lumber – by adding nicks and scrapes to the surface with a heavy metal chain and a hammer. Once you’ve added the desired amount of distress, cover the wood with a dark stain. Quickly wipe away, allowing the color to settle into the imperfections.” Whether it’s displayed prominently as a focal point, or used sparingly on accents pieces, distressed wood elements will help tie the vintage trend together.
* Masculine meets feminine
“Merging styles to make the entire family happy is not always easy,” says Nayak. Instead of looking too rugged or too girly, a key trend in 2014 is to blend both masculine and feminine components into your home design. “Combining two styles doesn’t mean the end result will be safe or boring. There are a number of creative solutions that will satisfy everyone’s tastes while making an impressive design statement.” Try painting a design on a wood floor. This technique allows the raw, masculine features of the wood to show through, while introducing a feminine overlay of patterns or colors. Popular patterns include quatrefoil, herringbone and modern floral designs.
* Metallic finishes and accents
Using metallic accents creates the perfect finishing touch in any room of the house. “The right accessories, like eye-catching metallic, make any space look and feel complete,” says Nayak. In 2014, the hottest finishes include brass and antiqued mirrors: both add depth, light and just enough sheen to make accents feel extra special. Best of all, there are a number of quick and easy DIY projects you can complete to bring this trend into your home. One is to spray paint branches silver or gold and then pop them in a vase – it will add instant glamour and help your home design shine well into in the new year.
“Don’t be afraid to mix and match the latest trends to reflect your personal style,” adds Nayak. “With the right on-trend elements and a dose of character, you’ll transform your house into a home fit for the new year.
