Coldwell Banker Homes & Estates Magazine - May 2017 | Page 42

high-gloss cabinets
large geometric patterns
in The New American Home
Y A
disappearing walls and doors
42 | HOMES & ESTATES
an orientation to the outside in The New American Home
upscale homes, than The New American Home
(TNAH), designed and constructed each year in con-
junction with the International Builders’ Show to show-
case the latest in architecture, building science and
design. Phil Kean, whose Winter Park, Florida, firm
has a track record of award-winning, high-performing
residences that are simply stunning, orchestrated this
year’s TNAH. His inspiration came from a trip to Palm
Springs and the lifestyle personified by Sinatra’s Rat
Pack. Ties to Mid-century Modern are evident through-
out, but the overall architecture is progressive, reflect-
ing what is recognized as international contem-
porary aesthetic.
A large cube form comprised of stone, flanked
by modern arrangements of wood and glass,
anchors the exterior and elevates the entry. Inside, one
arrives at an interior courtyard configured as a putting
green. One goal for the plan was a home that could
be considered a self-contained resort. Disappear-
ing walls and doors open main living areas to this
central open-air space on one side and pool, patio
and lake views on the other, making the lush green
Florida landscape part of the experience. For upscale
homes, from estates to high-rises in all climates, an
indoor-outdoor synergy is an expected feature, and
rather than simply an amenity, an orientation to
the outside is integral to the DNA of new homes.
Designed for ultimate flexibility with pods that
can be shut down when not in use, TNAH is suited
for multiple generations, frequent visitors or even
a group of friends or family who pool resources and
purchase the home together. From the sleek kitchen
with modern gloss and glass cabinets to a master suite
with a private courtyard and massage space to dark
framing that highlights doors and windows as design
elements, forward-looking features are on display.
High-gloss cabinets are an emerging trend,
according to the National Kitchen and Bath Associa-
tion’s (NKBA) annual design survey. Clean lines, built-
ins and simple door styles define kitchens today.
Contemporary outpaces traditional as the second-
most-popular style. Transitional remains most
preferred, but even this look appears more refined
and streamlined every year. Also, gaining interest are
industrial and Mid-century Modern. Boomers find Mid-
century familiar, almost nostalgic, while for younger
consumers it is new and fresh.
Preferences for white and gray show no signs
of slowing down, but a stroll through the show floor
reveals a kaleidoscope of future possibilities — pops
of colors, large geometric patterns, reclaimed
wood and mixed metals. More than a few blue
hues, often with gray undertones, were in evidence,
particularly for cabinets. Black is another color gaining
prominence, often with a soft brushed finish. “Black
is a great classic, whether it’s a matte with graining
or high-gloss lacquer,” says Chicago designer Donna
Mondi, who sees natural wood tones as part of the
transition away from a strictly neutral palette.