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If 2016 was a little unpredictable for interior design trends, 2017 is looking to be a boundary-pushing year for interiors. From tech savvy additions to jaw-dropping colors, we’ve compiled a list of trends to be on the lookout for in 2017!

 

 

 

 

Nature’s palette and jewel tones

 

Soothing shades of green, purple, and taupe have topped almost every major paint brand’s color forecast for 2017.

 

Following the quickly growing health and wellness industry, these soft, calming tones are backed by themes of sustainability, simple living, and spirituality.

 

Also, prepare to bid farewell to boring neutral tones. The new look for walls will be pure drama. Deep jewel tones, like emerald green or amethyst, and pastel colors found in nature are very in this season.

 

Praised it for its “vitality of nature and new beginnings” green has been named the color of the 2017.

 

The more submerged we become in modern life, the greater our innate craving to immerse ourselves in the physical beauty and inherent unity of the natural world. It’s only natural that green has made a massive comeback.

 

The palette of 2017 draws inspiration straight from the landscapes of nature, from a botanical yellow and green to terracotta, apricot, and warm stone gray the colors of the year are all inspired by the soothing and bold colors in nature.

 

Matte appliances and decor

 

The new look for the home is bold, yet subtle without being in-your-face. An appliance or decorative accent with a matte finish works to strip away all other distractions caused by surface sheen, forcing the form of the decorative piece or object to speak for itself.

 

Matte can also add an unexpected finish for objects that are traditionally lustrous or glossy. This suggestive accent helps to inject a wonderful layer to your design, adding depth and composition to counterpoint other finishes.

 

 

Cerused woods

 

A “cerused” finish refers to the technique that brings out the unique grain of the wood. This trend which has been popular in the luxury market for quite some time.

 

However, this year it’s finally trickling down to the mainstream interior design with a universal appeal. This year you’ll see it on cabinets, but also in bigger pieces like tables, chairs, and storage furniture.

 

Nailhead accents

 

Nailhead accents have been a classic staple for upholstered pieces, but in 2017 it’s being used in whole new ways.

 

We are seeing this trend go far beyond the usual upholstery, with riveted accents being applied to storage chests, credenzas, headboards and even the base plates of lighting fixtures.

 

Some designers even use nail heads to create dazzling patterns on the piece of furniture. This decorative accent lends an old world charm to any space.

 

All aspects of our daily life are increasingly becoming attached to the Internet of Things. As our lives continue to revolve more around our devices, so will our homes.

 

2017 will introduce more creative ways of incorporating charging docks and areas specifically devoted to integrating smart devices into the design of a space.

 

We are also starting to see savvy and sleek Bluetooth-enabled home appliances that allow users to customize every aspect of their morning routine.

 

From the strength of their coffee to the tone of their toast, everything can be controlled through a simple smartphone app. We don’t expect this trend to end anytime shortly, and anticipate continuing to see connectivity integrate into our interiors in 2017 and beyond.

 

 

 

 

As the year unfolds, be sure to check back for more up and coming design trends for 2017. Are you interested in updating your interior design? The Milestone design team is on standby ready to help you create your dream interior!

 

What trend are you looking forward to? We look forward to your comments below!

 

Images courtesy of Pinterest

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Do you have old things lying in storage that you simply can’t bare to part with? Items from travel, old pieces of furniture and sentimental keepsakes, all tucked away until we find a place to showcase them again.

 

Well if you’re looking for a little motivation or a fun side project, here are a few creative ways to repurpose and upcycle some of your favorite treasures.

 

 

 

Upcycle an old dresser into a stunning bench

 

Whether you have an old dresser in storage, need to upgrade your current dresser, or you recently found an excellent piece at the antique store, repurposing an old dresser into a bench is the perfect way to enhance your seating arrangement.

 

Start by removing the top of the dresser and the top drawers. What’s left? A bench! Next, add some plywood for extra seat support, a few stylish and comfortable cushions, and voilà, you’ve created extra seating for your entryway, front porch, or mud room.

 

The remaining drawer on the bottom functions as a bonus storage area.

 

Unique display shelf

 

When you think an object has no purpose, think again. You’d be surprised how many items can be repurposed into one-of-a-kind shelving units which are perfect for showcasing your favorite sculptures and pictures.

 

For example, you can add a bright coat of paint to an old stepladder to create an interesting display shelf that’s an instant eye-pleaser.

 

Adding a weathered finish will pair nicely with crisp white frames on the adjacent wall, lending the room a classic cottage look. Additionally, an old ladder placed on a wall also create an intriguing bookshelf.

 

 

 

 

Salvaged home office

 

A chic home office doesn’t always need to have to brand new items. You can create a functional and rustic desk with just a few items and a little love and attention.

 

Use sawhorses for the legs of the desk, place an old ladder across for sturdy framework, and top it off with a wood pallet to create a spacious workstation that is sure to create a stunning focal point with very little investment.

 

To complete the look, consider using an old garage storage unit with wood pallets as a back support to create industrial-style shelving for additional storage space. Fill the shelves with vintage-inspired objects, and you’ve created the ultimate chic home office.

 

Cabinet door mantle décor

 

After a remodel, we are often left with extra material. Instead of tossing the extra items in the trash consider the possibilities. After a kitchen remodel, take that leftover cabinet door and place it above on the fireplace mantel as decor.

 

Paint the door to match the room’s color scheme and lean it against the mantel lending this item an entirely new purpose. Finish off the look with an antique decorative plate and candles, and you’ve created a stylish and unique decorative mantel.

 

 

 

Bright bold focal point

 

Sometimes the only thing a piece of furniture needs is a fresh coat of paint to breathe new life into a space. Add a fresh coat of paint in a bold color to an old end table or coffee table to create an eye-catching focal point.

 

A bold color creates a fun focal point to liven up any room in your home or office.

 

What to do with that old bathtub

 

Unlike upcycling, repurposing means that the original object is not modified, or very minimal modifications (i.e. re-painted). This provides a great opportunity to turn your whimsical creativity into thrifty pragmatism!

 

For example, you can make an intriguing and functional herb garden out of an old bath tub. Simply clad it with wood to turn the basin into a planter box, fill it with soil and plant your favorite herbs.

 

Not only will this create a unique enhancement for your backyard but you’ll also reap the additional benefits of fresh herbs for next meal!

 

From tired to stylish, anything can be revitalized with a little love. If you have a little time and a some creativity you can turn your old items into treasures.

 

If you don’t have the time but you want to create the look, contact the designers at Milestone and we can do the work for you!

 

Photos courtesy of Pinterest.

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We all want a magnificent home that stands out amongst the rest. However, we also want a villa that blends with its natural environment and neighborhood.

 

Designing the exterior of a home can be a complex process of color choices, materials, and balancing shape and lines. It’s an overwhelming and exciting experience for designers and homeowners alike.

 

So, we’ve put together a few basic exterior design principles that will help make your home a haven with a visually appealing exterior.

 

 

 

 

Balancing Shape with Symmetry

 

As will all types of design, balance and symmetry play an essential role in achieving a well-designed exterior. Every home requires some semblance of balance and symmetry to create an aesthetically pleasing design.

 

It may be the eye-catching allure of a symmetrical contemporary home, where the windows are large or a smaller front door with smaller windows.

 

It could be a home where the balance is achieved through roof lines and outdoor pergola elevations to balance the heights.

 

Regardless of your home style, there are a variety of ways to accomplish an exterior that is proportional to your home – some through obvious symmetry, while others are a bit more subtle.

 

Either way, a properly designed home has an exterior that is proportional and balanced.

 

 

 

 

Form Follows Function

 

Louis Sullivan, Frank Lloyd Wright’s mentor, invented the phrase, “form follows function”. Essentially, this means that the purpose of the building should be the foundation of the design.

 

When designing your exterior consider the following: What is the purpose of your villa? What do you plan to use your home for? Consider your family needs and then decide what is required in your home (or yard) to accommodate those needs.

 

Ultimately, The exterior of your home will mimic the form of the interior designs that you have chosen.

 

Materials and Textures

 

With the surplus of options, it can become overwhelming deciding what materials you should use on your home exterior. Between wood, marble or flamed granite, aluminum, steel, Porcelain, paint , and natural concrete finish – how do we make our final decision?

 

 

 

 

It’s always best to balance durability with aesthetics. Naturally, you want the exterior of your villa to reflect your personal style. For example, if you prefer a rustic look you may want tumbled crazy cut stone stone and wooden bark.

 

If you are a modern minimalist, you may prefer the lines of sleek steel or simple wood panels. At the end of the day, stick with the theme of your home and what blends best with the natural environment.

 

Landscaping is Essential

 

Landscaping your home requires far more than simply planting a tree in your backyard. When designed the right way, your yard will become an extension of your home and personal tastes.

 

From gazebos and pergolas to living walls and custom water features, your yard should be a peaceful retreat for you and your family.

 

 

 

 

Don’t let your yard fade into the darkness when the sun sets. Proper lighting is essential for home safety and nighttime appeal. Choose lights that mimic the style of your home.

 

For example, traditional villas look fantastic with lantern-style chandeliers hanging over a covered entrance, or flanking the garage. Modern homes look amazing with angular steel lights.

 

Not only will these custom lighting fixtures look beautiful, but they will also keep you yard lit and functional into the wee hours of the night! Looking for a few more landscape ideas? Check out our 10 Tips to Enhance your Landscape Design.

 

 

 

 

Create an Outdoor Entertainment Area

 

Spending time outside with our family and friends dining and entertaining is a fun and memorable experience. Yet, dining al fresco is only part of the fun!

 

Outdoor kitchens and living areas are an amazing way to add value to your home and quality to your life. An outdoor kitchen or living area allows you to cook, eat and entertain comfortably in your backyard.

 

Between pergolas, gazebos, waterfalls, and fire pits, there are many amazing options to incorporate into your outdoor living space that will make it an essential part of your daily life.

 

While the design of your home exterior can be a complicated process that is full of decisions and choices, a well-designed home can be achieved with patience and a little help!

 

During the design process, we suggest that you follow the above mentioned tips and when in doubt consult a professional. The Milestone Design Team is always ready to help you achieve the home of your dreams!

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We’ve talked about ways to improve your exterior and backyard with amazing design ideas, sizzling outdoor kitchens, gorgeous pools, and lush gardens, so we thought it would be fun to show you a few awe-inspiring designs that surely turned a few heads!

 

There are thousands of impressive and unique designs and styles to add to your collection of garden landscaping ideas, but we’ve listed ten here. Have a look!

 

The Garden Studio

 

A beautiful garden design will transform your backyard into a little heaven. Designing a space where you can relax, surrounded by the peace and tranquility of nature will do wonders for your mind, body, and soul.

 

This garden studio is mesmerizing and offers a beautiful place to unwind and relax. What we love: The pergola inspired shed creates a space to sit and dine and the lush green Murraya Jasmine  spreads a lovely fragrance.

 

Who wouldn’t want to sit back and unwind here?

 

 

 

 

Maximizing the Space

 

Your backyard doesn’t have to be huge to turn it into a space that you will absolutely love.

 

This backyard is short on space, but the designer maximized every square foot by incorporating Stone clad retaining walls, patio furniture for outdoor eating, and cantilevered pergola to cover the outdoor kitchen area.

 

What we love: this sleek pergola not only creates a separate space but also offers relief from the sun and heat during those warm summer months whilst you cook.

 

 

 

 

The Asian Pergola

 

What’s not to love about an Asian-inspired backyard? From the tiered roof to the Zen inspired greenery, every detail of this stunning design is a sum of the larger design scheme.

 

What we love: the outdoor seating, sun loungers are  embedded within beautiful greenery and carefully collected outdoor sculptures and a pool set within spacious, clutter free garden gives the area a vibrant feel.

 

 

 

 

Backyard Lagoon

 

This backyard design has a lot to love! The massive pool resembles a sparkling lagoon, with a jacuzzi and water feature. Not only is this area peaceful and relaxing but it also adds value to the home.

 

What we love: the decorative stone wall stretches past the stone pool deck to hide the pool pump room and shower and tropical Balinese feel brought by the Palm trees.

 

 

 

 

The Terraced Garden

 

This stunning home full of windows offers a beautiful view of the garden and pool, while the raised steps adds the culminating touch through the lighting.

 

This thought-provoking design once again proves that you can do a lot with a space with careful choice of levels. What we love: the steps and pool deck, flanked by the outdoor bar and Barbeque area, giving it a simple open modern feel.

 

 

 

 

The Remote Hideaway

 

If you’re looking for seclusion, off the beaten path, this is the yard for you. The resort like feel, meandering grass, different levels, multiple seating spaces create a feeling of being far away from the busy world.

 

What we love: as the sun sets, curl up on the gazebo cushions and sip a drink, chat with friends and enjoy the serenity of the calming space around you.

 

 

 

 

The Estate

 

From what we’ve seen so far, the most impressive backyards have dedicated spaces for each area. The yard below has a fire line incorporated within the bar counter encircled by chairs to entertain and relax with family and friends.

 

Further, back is the outdoor dining area and water feature. What we love: the unique foliage and architectural designs add just the right amount of character to this amazing back yard!

 

 

 

 

The Outdoor reading corner – Inspiration

 

I would love to have a corner like this! Everyone needs is a cave retreat when you want quiet time outside to write your vision, dreams or simply to think.

 

What we love: the beautiful wall tiling pattern, neutral colors beautifully combined, natural bamboo surrounding the little area.

 

Cool Children Play Areas

 

This cool children play tent creates a cozy corner for them to relax and play. It’s a little tent, very cost effective and cute. What we love: A special corner for children in any shaded area.

 

 

Photos from Kidsofmania.com and Pinterest

 

 

Garden Dining Area

 

Modern and spacious, a 3 m long table sits in the center of a waterproof pergola. What we love: Solid wood shade structures, bar and a warm feel to this garden. Totally clutter free!  Stunning!

 

 

 

 

From lush gardens to manicured yards, there is inspiration to be discovered in a variety of backyards. If you’re looking for a little help to turn your backyard into a relaxing getaway, the designers at Milestone are always ready to help.

 

Already have an amazing backyard? We’d love for you to share it!

 

• Editorial Note: some images were picked up from the net as inspirations from Pinterest and Houzz.com