As times change so do houses, and the way we use them! Nowadays many of us live in homes built during an older generation. These traditional homes have a more formal layout in which the different functions of a house are compartmentalized into different areas. So there are formal living rooms, dining rooms, etc. all separated and divided per function. As times have changed we have seen trends emerge in the field of interiors and here are just a few areas we can highlight when thinking of remodeling your current home to fit your needs and the needs of your modern family.

The Great Room

The Great Room Concept is one that has really become quite popular in current day remodeling whether the style of the home is traditional or modern. This is a concept that originated in modern architecture with the idea of having a large open multi-functional space. This one large room can often incorporate the kitchen, dining and living room areas. Many times this room can also include raised or cathedral ceilings to accentuate the grand size of the space. By organizing popular functions of the home together you save square footage but gain functionality.

This is a popular trend in design now because of it’s inclusively. No longer is the mother or father relegated off to an enclosed kitchen where the food prep is completed and then everything must be brought out to the formal dining area and after dinner everything must be taking back to the kitchen and cleaned while guests go to a formal sitting room. Most people that I know who still have formal dining areas rarely use the spaces with the exception of holiday times. Now days’, including guests and the host in a large space has just become more practical. Dad can be cooking, while Mom pays bills and the kids are doing their homework, all in the same room with the family pet, it’s a concept that many are trending too.

“Sounds great! How do I create a great room?”

Remodeling an older home can be tricky, but with Foster Remodeling Solutions we can help you every step of the way. Whether it’s as simple as taking down the wall between the kitchen and dining or a full renovation we can work with you to develop the best design possible. Here’s few quick tips: When thinking of designing a great room is always a good idea to incorporate as much light as possible, through windows and/or skylights, this will brighten the space to emphasize how open and airy it is. It is also a good idea to keep overall paint choices brighter, this will keep the room from feeling too heavy. If you do want something darker, choose an accent wall so that you can get in that rich color without overwhelming the space.

Give us a call and let us create a great room for you!

Organization

Organization. Clutter affects our emotional sense of well-being. Decide how you live and work to determine storage needs based on lifestyle, hobbies and needs before considering changes to the room or furniture. Eliminating clutter removes a major obstacle standing in the way of good room design.

 Furniture. Group sofas and chairs into conversation areas using the room’s entire space, not just areas against the walls. Remember, it’s OK if things don’t match. Furniture color and furniture style are key for blending pieces from different collections. 

Painting

Painting.   Painting can be the least expensive, highest impact change in a room. If painting the whole room a bold color seems daunting, paint one wall and make it the focal point. Hang interesting art on that wall and move a nice piece of furniture there to create a unique vignette.

Plants. Plants always add a breath of fresh air to a room. Those born without green thumbs can try silk plants and trees. These days, the quality of these items makes it difficult to distinguish them from the real thing. 

Area Rugs

Area Rugs. An area rug is a wonderful way of defining a conversation area. Lay it at an angle beneath a coffee table or try a runner along a hallway to add color and warmth! This is true even over wall-to-wall carpet. 

Hang pictures or mirrors. Hang pieces reflecting your personality, family, interests or travels. A mirror will both brighten a room and make it seem bigger. Position mirrors to capture nice views or interesting architectural elements. 

Collectibles

Group collectibles. Dust off those knick-knacks. Create a display area and group related objects together, in sets of three or five in varying shape. Rotate pieces from season to season to keep it fresh!

 Decorative pillows. This is a no-hassle way to add color, texture and pattern to a room.

Lighting. Illumination makes the biggest difference in our décor. Insufficient lighting means that nice fabric and furnishings won’t be seen to their best advantage. Lamps and fixtures can “age” quickly, but these can be updated to create a bold new look in your home. 

Window Treatments

Window Treatments. Window treatments can “make” a room. It’s a place to let imagination take flight — the finishing touch that completes a whole look. If done correctly in harmony with the rest of the room, any fabric from silks and trims to a simple, ribbon-tied sheer drape accentuates your room.