(NC)-You may know the latest fashion trends, but what about home trends? According to a leading consumer trends advisory firm, Iconoculture, the trend is moving toward a greener, smarter and more soothing abode.
Glamorous Greening
When it comes to home decor, consumers are not only going green, but saving green with energy-conserving solutions and practical eco-friendly home products that don't skimp on style. Examples include energy-efficient appliances or water-saving fixtures, such as Moen Canada's new 1.75 gallons per minute model - offering a 30 percent water savings from the industry standard 2.5 gallons per minute showerhead - while maintaining a satisfying shower experience. Other hot green home items include wall coverings, like MIO's PaperForms, made of 100% post- and pre-consumer waste paper.
Tech-savvy Habitat
From the living room to the bathroom, Americans are getting wired. Home technology is available at many different levels - from "smart homes" that offer the convenience to control appliances, sprinklers, security systems, curtains and media components from a single-touch panel to "intelligent homes" that monitor what the consumer is doing and use this information to set preferences from a secure server.
Popular tech choices making their way into the mainstream include virtual photo storage; smart appliances; and furniture and fixtures embedded with technology, like ShowHouse by Moen's new hands-free electronic Destiny powder room faucet, featuring clean, minimalist styling and a sheeting water flow.
Design Therapy
Forget the therapist. Great decor is the new path to healing and restoration. Today's design is all about experience - aspiring to create customized comfort and functionality.
To create this level of personalization, homeowners are gravitating toward unique items like the Puzzle Floor, solid hardwood flooring that is put together like the pieces of a puzzle, and the Loftcube, a customizable pod-like prefabricated unit, complete with kitchen and bath that can be added to any property - from rooftop to open field.
Today's trends are all about improving your home and ensuring a better tomorrow for yourself, your family and your world. When updating your home's look, design carefully - make it smart and sustainable to improve your quality of life for years to come.