2016 Interior Design Trends

Change the Look

Fads come and go, but the classic principles of interior design never really change. The year 2016 has brought with it some interesting ideas for the home that blends together with contemporary technology, definition and schematics. Let us look at some new trends that can quickly implement new trends with promising effects.

Mix the Match

The same look in every room getting you down? – Not to fear! Add some ethnic flavor with accents that show decorative promise.

Optical illusions can never be old school and this year, the cluster of small mirrors intermingled with the larger ones transform a room dramatically to create a spacious look.

If you want to jazz things up with a mix of colors, bright color is in the news and can change the look and the ambiance of any room quick. What you need to look out for is to make sure that the lighting complements the schematics.

The old theme of the same old ceiling color has changed in design and temperament. Add a highlighted space on the ceiling with strategically positioned LED lighting.

Go for minimal and urban design in the kitchen by implementing an open kitchen. Use placement of tables and islands to change the dynamic to instill a sense of privacy, while still maintaining the open look.

The latest design that creates an aura of something different is the change in the bathroom tiles. Forget about the same old tiles, and fuse in some geometric shapes, ceramic tiles, or or stone murals.

Go the Distance

If you want to change the theme of the home, you have to be open to suggestions. However, be as open and descriptive as possible with a designer if you have a certain idea in mind. Blending two – contemporary and classic chic does change the dynamic. Add extra greenery and you have yourself a winner.

If you would like help with your interior design or home renovation, feel free to reach out to TAB Associates for a free consultation!

New Interior Renovation Trends for the New Year

As we welcome the New Year, a home renovation plan could be a great way to start off on a fresh note. The coming year will turn out to be even more exciting when you decide to try out new things, especially with respect to the interior design of your home.

Bathroom Interiors

Let’s begin with the bathroom interiors. It can be difficult and expensive to design bathrooms, especially master bathrooms. It means dealing with plumbing, ventilation and electrical systems and adhering to energy and water-saving codes according to your location.

In the New Year, independent toilet rooms will be the buzzword. These toilet rooms have the benefit of adding a touch of privacy to shared baths. Also, if you’re planning to renovate your bathroom in the coming year, go frameless for your shower enclosures. This is a crisper and cleaner look and allows the shower tiles to shine through!

Kitchen Designs

In 2016, as far as the interior design of kitchens is concerned, you will still have to ensure efficient storage facilities, and you can get back the tiles into your kitchen. In the New Year, kitchen renovations will be high on textured and colored tiles. You don’t necessarily need to install a very bright or strong color; neutrals will work well too. Take inspiration from European designs to renovate your home’s kitchen in 2016!

Darker Color Palettes

For the longest time, we have been observing mostly white home interiors including white floors, white walls, white ceilings, white upholstery and so on. This year, however, interior designers are predicting that there might be a transition towards darker and moodier hues. This means that homeowners planning a renovation can think about incorporating colors such as charcoal, navy, aubergine and hunter green into their home interiors. Use the colors on walls, ceilings or upholstery to add a touch of glamor to your home décor.

Combining Vintage and Contemporary

A key home renovation trend in the New Year will be the mixing of contemporary and vintage design elements while styling your home. When you combine furniture and other interior elements from various eras, it lends a more dynamic look to your space. In order to shop for good quality old furniture, visit antique stores, and add a touch of history to your home décor. It will also make your home look warmer and more welcoming.

It is a good idea to consult a professional before deciding on a particular home renovation idea for the New Year. Feel free to reach out to TAB Associates to help bring in the new year with a home of your dreams!

How Balance Ties Into Architecture

What is great architecture? Several designers in Colorado believe that it is a rich interaction between various critical elements. However, there are so many elements that make up a building that it can often create confusion regarding which elements are the most crucial.

Typically, all architecture is aimed at achieving some kind of balance with respect to the design, whether symmetrical or asymmetrical. While designing, certain theories and laws need to be taken into consideration.

If architecture has to have some balance, designers need to think about synchronizing elements so that each of them relates to the other. Ultimately, the aim is to build some sort of system. Balance is not just about the physical building being structurally and aesthetically sound. Architectural balance is achieved when a designer manages to design for all human senses.

Importance of Symmetry and Asymmetry in Architectural Design

Symmetry is one way to achieve architectural balance. This means having a mirror image around a pivotal or primary axis. This is quite common in architecture, especially classical architecture. The symmetry could be radial as well.

Designers can also aim for approximate symmetry. This does not involve a mirror image. However, the elements built on one of the sides of the central axis get roughly imitated on the other.

Lastly, balance in architecture could be asymmetrical as well. Designers might find this more challenging to achieve. This could present a more intriguing view but if not done correctly, it can make all the individual parts look fine, while the system as a whole could appear awkward. Asymmetrical architectural balance is usually considered as casual while symmetrical balance seems more formal.

In either case, form should follow function so manipulating the function to achieve symmetry is sometimes not true to the architecture. Feel free to reach out to TAB Associates to help build the home of your dreams!

10 Tips to Effectively Communicate with your Architect

Your new home will be an important part of your family’s life, so you chose to hire a reputed Architect to design a beautiful home for you. Yet, if you and your Architect are not able to communicate properly, you may end up with a product that is not built to your liking. The following tips will point out how you can effectively communicate with your Architect.

  • Do a bit of research- Before you begin to design your home, it is best to look around and expose yourself to interior design and existing architectural trends to decide what you want.
  • Preferred mode of communication- Once you hire your Architect, establish the most efficient form of communication between you both. The frequency and speed of response will be based upon whether you choose emails, text messages, voice calls and so on.
  • Make a schedule- Once the preferred mode of communication is established, make a weekly schedule so that you and your Architect can plan the meetings accordingly.
  • Take it one step at a time- It is not conducive to go into the details of what you need from a home right at the beginning. Start with a solid idea and then build up from there.
  • Ask for 3D views- Architects are experts at seeing 3D even when they are looking at 2D images. Ask for a 3D version so that your visions are aligned.
  • Make sure that you understand everything- Although architects will try their best to make themselves understood, they may use some terminology that you’re unfamiliar with. Get clarity on any confusion, no matter how small.
  • Get cost estimates for each design- A design may look great but before you set your heart to it, check how much money it will take to build it. This may require a builder being involved in the early stages to acquire solid budgets.
  • Show your architect a lot of pictures- Most of the time, your ideas cannot be communicated through words as you may not know the terminology. Show your Architect plenty of pictures of designs so that he or she knows exactly what you want.  It is important to also show your Architect pictures of what you do not like.  In this way, they can get in your head and understand your desires.
  • Write everything down- Taking notes at the end of a meeting will ensure that you and your architect are on the same page at all times.
  • Collaborate with your Architect and builder- At every design stage, try to collaborate between the builder and the Architect so that the designs can be feasible and beautiful at the same time.

With a little bit of effort from your side, you should be able to use the talent of your Architect to build your dream home! Feel free to reach out to TAB Associates to help build the home of your dreams!

Architect Ego Vs. Ability

As in many professions, there’s a whole world of architecture that most people don’t know about until they’re on the other side of things. Within this world, there is a common struggle among architects to keep their professional ability and their personal ego separate in their work.  We believe that an architect’s worst enemy is his ego and his best ally is his ability to combine artistic expression, construction technology, and the client’s needs.

The practice of being an architect involves creativity and design among other important skills. Architects are honored and rewarded all the time for their masterpiece creations; for some, this is the greatest goal of their career. It’s never frowned upon to aim to reach your highest potential in your career, but as an architect, it is important to remember why you do what you do.

Architects are the professionals with all of the knowledge, and their customers hold the vision of the final product. In this scenario, it’s very important that the two of these people are on the same page. There are a few key qualities to look out for when choosing the right architect.

  1. Knowledge- If it was easy, we’d all do it. Architecture is an adept skill that pulls the strings of many areas of the brain including capabilities in engineering, social communication, legal matters, business and design. Be sure that your architect understands how to apply all of these skills to make your vision come to life.
  2. Confidence- A certain level of confidence is required to be an architect. Their personal belief in their abilities helps the customer to feel comfortable in their decision. It’s important that your architect can reassure you of their abilities but not get off track.
  3. Balance- This is the most important quality to look for. Balance is achieved when the architect has an even ability to exert both knowledge and confidence in his or her work. At the end of the day, the goal of the architect is to fulfill their client’s needs and create the masterpiece they’ve always wanted. This establishes true success and talent in the architect.

While it may seem obvious to look for knowledge and confidence in an architect, it’s finding a quality of balance that is truly significant. Then, you will know you’re in good hands. We take pride in being well balanced between our confidence and our abilities, so feel free to reach out to TAB Associates for a free consultation to see what we mean! 

Why Choosing A Log Home Is The Way To Go

Picture this: A log cabin nestled in a secluded, wooded area with a fire burning area and a breathtaking view just outside the window. Log homes, in recent years, have become less of a dream and more of a reality. More and more people are taking to the idea of building and purchasing log homes. Other than their visual appeal, there are a lot of really beneficial reasons to invest in a log home.

  1. Go Green– There’s no denying that a log home will take the carbon footprint weight right off of your shoulders. Using solid logs to build a home consequently removes the carbon stored inside these trees from the environment and improves air quality. Best of all, wood is a renewable and recyclable resource that can be used time and time again.
  1. Energy Efficient– Wood has a natural component called “thermal mass” as well as the capability to breathe. As a part of the environment, years and years of adaptation have enabled trees to develop these qualities and live as long as possible regardless of the terrain and weather. In the colder months, log homes naturally delay heat transfer through their thermal mass. During the warmer months, the logs are able to breathe and therefore maintain better air quality and circulation.
  1. Durability– Trees have the ability to withstand wind, rain, lightning, freezing temperatures, and dry climates. As they’ve developed sustainable and durable qualities over centuries, log homes will stand longer and stronger over the years. There are even some historical, log homes that are still standing and can be dated back to almost 700 years ago.
  1. Health Conscious– The breathability of log homes create much better air quality within the home, therefore containing less humidity. Less humidity inside the home makes it harder for elements like mold and allergens to grow and multiply. For the people whose allergies tend to get the best of them, a log home can be a great choice as they’ll be less reactive. Plus, less mold growth will decrease the chances of getting sick.

Log homes are growing in both popularity and value as word spreads about their long-lasting benefits. No matter which area of the country you reside, investing in a log home can greatly improve your health, the health of the environment, and the future of both. Contact TAB Associates to help in designing your own log home!

Creating a Natural Wood Finish with Modern Tile

Modern Kitchen Interior Design Architecture Stock Image, Photo oThis year’s tiling design trends are truly exciting. From edgy designs to new materials, the tile industry is laying the groundwork for a strong and beautiful future.

Leading the way are faux-wood tiles. Made of ceramics, they mimic the tones and grains of natural wood without the splinters, and with the added benefit of being watertight.

Further, you can select the wood look that you find most appealing. You can choose teak or weathered wood to create a seaside appearance, or you can go with a deep oak finish or lighter pine to soften the appearance of your rooms. Best of all, none of these options will ever scratch, fade, or need a regular oiling.

In addition to the appearance of the individual tile, you can use them to easily create everything from herringbone patterns to parquet. This makes them a diverse, and solid foundation that can be easily blended with your desired décor. You can even select different sized tiles to create a more natural, earthy appearance that’s sure to be noticed and appreciated.

Do you have questions regarding the latest tile design trends? Contact Tab Associates and we’ll be happy to lay them out for you!

The Zen and Balance of Architectural Design

BridgingAn architect’s job is truly unique in that he or she is expected to design something that is not only functional, but also attractive. In many cases, a design’s beauty actually lies within its ability to suit its purpose.

Architecture should be beautiful, but that beauty should come from the remarkable feelings of balance one experiences when looking at or walking through a space. That is not to say there is not room for personalization. Once balance is achieved with the larger elements, the little details of the architectural design are often used to give it some character. These details can be used to evoke the architect’s personal tastes or the preferences of the client.

Often, the zen-like balance of notable architectural designs comes from their simplicity. There are so many different forms of simplicity. From flowing, natural-looking structures to ones made from rigid geometric forms, each achieves balance in its own way. Often, it’s about experiencing that piece in its context, not as a solo work of art.

To learn more about zen and balance in architecture, contact TAB Associates. We aim to create designs that capture their function and the client’s essence.

Contemporary American Home Design Across the Years

Painted Ladies Victorian Houses In San FranciscoIt’s no secret that American home design has changed and evolved over the years. A recent article on Houzz presented a timeline of American home styles, showcasing these changes.

  • American house styles grew from a blend of British, French, and Spanish styles that were brought over by settlers. Homes started off small, and as the nation grew, home sizes increased. Regional differences also developed, with Northeastern homes being great forts to block out winter weather and Southern homes featuring tall windows to capture cooler breeze.
  • In the 18th century, the Greek Revival style brought pillars to the American home design, and in the later 19th century, the Shingle style introduced banded, horizontal elements and larger openings between rooms. Frank Lloyd Wright brought the Craftsman style to the forefront of American architecture, paving the way for the use of natural materials.
  • Now, modern American homes are becoming more geometric and minimalist in design. However, many homeowners still built on the classic designs of the 18th, 19th, and 20th century to create their own, updated versions of these truly American homes.

If you’re ready to start designing your American home, contact TAB Associates to discuss your project today!

Black Is a Bold Exterior Color That May Surprise You

Modern Vertical Roof WindowsIf you’re looking to make a statement with your exterior design, then believe it or not, black might be the way to go. An all black exterior color can be incredibly effective without being overwhelming.

Obviously, not every home design will work in an all black exterior coating. For it to really work, you’ll want to get rid of exterior design elements that would distract from the boldness of the black color, such as the coordinating trim color. This will help provide the home’s structure with a minimalist and clean look that will have a powerful effect.

If cloaking your entire home in black seems a little excessive to you, you can help add a bit of visual levity by using white trim as a strong contrast that’s just as bold as the choice of black. Add a splash of color by choosing a brightly hued entrance door, such as one in a red color. You can also choose to balance the black exterior using frosted glass windows instead – this is an effect that works just as well.

Consider a black exterior design and be sure to contact us at Tab Associates for more home design information and advice today.