Whether you’re building a brand new home or renovating your current home, it is really easy to get caught up in trends circling the internet. While these things may be in for now, think back to tacky linoleum flooring and popcorn ceilings. They had their time in the spotlight and now decades later we are still struggling to repair the damages that these “trends” have left behind in many homes. There is absolutely nothing wrong with keeping up with the current design styles, but there are smart ways to do so without causing extra work later on!
Shiplap
Shiplap was originally used in the construction of old barns. Traditionally, it’s known to have a distinct look due to rabbets (or small grooves) that form a tight seal making it a great way to keep the elements out of a barn. Today it has morphed into a widely known design trend thanks to a popular home improvement show! While the trend seems to be holding on tight, if and when it loses steam, many Americans are going to be left with hundreds of nail holes left in their drywall. If you want to add a shiplap wall to your home, we’d recommend using removable vinyl wallpaper to achieve the look without the permanent damage later down the road!
Painted Brick Fireplaces
Basic red brick isn’t for everyone, and that’s okay! Before grabbing the paint brush, consider adding a temporary covering using drywall or wood planks over the brick to preserve the timeless look of the brick while still showcasing your own style!
Replacing Bathtubs with Walk-In Showers
In the past few years, large elaborate walk-in showers have taken over master bathrooms everywhere! Removing bathtubs to replace them with walk-in showers can seem like a fantastic way to save space when you plan on staying in your home for a significant amount of time, but it can also affect your property value as well. Before you rip out any bathtubs, make sure you weigh the pros and cons. We’d recommend keeping at least one tub in the house as it could be a deterrent to families with small children, pets, or someone who just enjoys baths when it comes time to sell!
Replacing Hardwood with Carpet
This one will break any designer’s heart. While we don’t see this too often anymore, the urge to cover hardwood is still hanging on! If hardwood floors aren’t for you, try using large area rugs to cover, or use a reputable carpeting company to make sure that the floors are preserved well underneath!
Dark Accent Wall
When done right, dark dramatic accent walls can really make an amazing statement. Before you choose to run with the deep, dark “midnight forest” accent wall in the living room, think about how difficult it will be to cover or remove that paint color five years from now. Using a brighter more neutral wall color makes touch ups easier and switching it up is a breeze. If you want to deepen a bit, try incorporating a dark window treatment or furniture!
Always remember, your home is your home! Do whatever makes you happy! These are just some of our suggestions to make your life a little easier when trends change or you choose to move, but they’re just suggestions! There is a less damaging way to do a lot of things, so contact our designers today to get started on building a brand new home or redesigning your current home!
