normandy, Author at Normandy Remodeling

Today, homeowners enjoy having multiple layers of lighting in order to have more flexibility within their space. Whether it is in the kitchen or in a casual setting, different moods and tasks call for different light fixtures. “Pendant lights are a functional targeted task light that can further enhance the style of the space,” says Normandy Designer Leslie Lee. “These decorative elements can create visual features within the room and focal points for the space as well.” The color that is incorporated, if any at all, depends entirely on the homeowner and the style of the space. Because there is such a variation in shape and size as well, many homeowners take this opportunity to add these features in order to boost the interest in the room and add complementary elements.

“Pendant lighting is most commonly found over a kitchen peninsula, kitchen islands, or home bar,” added Leslie. “It is important to keep the number and size of the lights proportionate to the surface too, in order to maintain the balance of the room.” These lights are ideal for adding a design feature and slight pop of color to the space. For example, in this contemporary basement, Leslie incorporated these blue pendant lights in order to counterpart the colorful fish behind the home bar. The colors of these glass fixtures are illuminated by the light within and add soft lighting to the room in addition to the visual component.

The New Year has arrived, and with it comes the question of predicting the top kitchen trends for 2015. With a host of classic favorites and new concepts for kitchen remodeling this year, our design team weighed in on what they expect to be popular for 2015. Here are elements they feel will be among the top kitchen trends, in no particular order:

New Traditional: There is a growing preference for the clean lines of a modern kitchen, but the addition of carefully selected details and appointments softens the hard lines to add interest and texture to the room.

Mimic nature: Whether it’s porcelain floor tile or engineered countertops, more manufactured items are taking on the look and beauty of natural elements, primarily natural stone. The advances in recreating the movement, irregularity, and beauty that are found in natural materials have been married with the ease of maintenance in the manmade products, and have grown in popularity with no end in sight.

Pale gold tones & mixed metals: While the shiny brass fixtures of the early ’90s may not be back, antiqued and brushed finishes in warm golden tones are taking hold. Mixing warm and cool metals together has become common as people pair differing metals, such as oil-rubbed bronze and nickel, in the same space.

Color: Color is being incorporated into cabinetry, backsplash tile, and countertops in a big way. People are renovating their homes to suit their style, and the years of bland beige kitchens have been left behind.

Antique Mirrors: Glitz is hot right now with glass tile, glossy cabinets, and reflective surfaces remaining popular. Incorporating old-fashioned elements like antique mirrors helps to create a sense of history in these newer pieces, while still being true to today’s style trends.

Open layouts: Still exceedingly popular, open layouts are in high demand for their flexibility, which works for entertaining as well as daily family life.

Butler Pantries: This staging area near the kitchen, which was a staple of kitchens at the turn of the last century, has regained popularity as people find it to be ideal for entertaining and meal prep during a party.

White: While white cabinetry is a classic element, it has retained its appeal and many homeowners continue to opt for this timeless look. Dressing up the typical white kitchen with a contrasting island or hutch piece is a way to give white cabinets some personality.

Quality products: People are demanding quality materials for their new kitchen, avoiding anything that may need repairs or replacing in a few years. Indeed, quality has become the new definition of luxury.

Open shelving: You can’t beat the accessibility of having everyday items right at your fingertips, and open shelving has the added bonus of making the room seem larger and airier.