SPECIAL SECTION HOME IMPROVEMENT
appliances, countertops and fixtures. What were once rooms
tucked away and never mentioned are now becoming gathering
places for entertaining and spa-like sanctuaries sought after
for relief from a long day. The kitchen and bathroom are really
feeling the love this season, with punch and pizazz being added to
personalize the spaces.
Bathroom
Bathrooms continue to gain importance as a space used for
relaxation and meditation. Bathroom sizes are larger than they
once were, bringing in more room for added features such as
soaker tubs and extended shower stalls. No room to expand the
bathroom walls? Opt for an illusion of space with large tile sizes
on the floor and practical storage solutions to make room for your
calming sanctuary.
• Brass is back: Have brass hardware from the ‘90s in your
bathroom? Don’t get rid of it just yet! With rose gold and
copper making their way into the hardware scene last year,
brass is also making a comeback. Chrome and satin are still the
frontrunners, but switch up the classics for a trendier look.
• Natural stone sinks: Granite is so 2016. Countertops are now
boasting durable quartz and hand-carved stone sinks. Porcelain
will always be a classic crowd favorite, but the trend is moving
toward the natural look and feel of stone.
• Patterned tiles: Ceramics are enhancing bathroom floors,
accent walls, and shower stalls with geometric designs and
wood-like patterns. These tiles are adding a decorative touch
to a room that doesn’t often get much decorating love.
Kitchen
Although homes are trending smaller, kitchens are getting
bigger and becoming the preferred gathering point for
families. Formal dining room walls are being blown out to
create an extension to the kitchen. These larger areas allow for
more creative freed