Warren Wetzel, studio director of the KB Home Design Studio, sat down with Houston Agent to discuss the homebuilder’s new-home design predictions for the upcoming year, based on the styles and trends Houston customers have been favoring.
Maximalism
via KB Home Design Studio
In stark contradiction to the clean, monotone modern farmhouse trend that ruled the past several years, maximalism is on the rise. Wetzel said clients are gravitating towards bold statements, like oversized pendant lighting and tiles in interesting shapes or colors — think terra-cotta colored tile floors or octagonal black backsplashes.
Another facet of this trend is mixing textures. Clients are more likely to use a variety of fabrics in spaces like living rooms and bedrooms that are full of blankets, pillows and furniture.
Soft colors
As soft colors make a comeback, Wetzel says some of the most popular hues are pastels like mauve, pistachio, peach and sky blue. In fact, Sherwin Williams’ color of the year is a steely baby blue called “Upward.”
Soft colors work even better when paired with a contrasting design trend — like maximalism. “It’s about mixing elements and keeping it modern,” Wetzel said.
Stained cabinets
via KB Home Design Studio
Wetzel also highlighted a new storage trend: stained cabinets. “From experience here at the studio and from watching the designers, white cabinets have been monstrous,” Wetzel said. “It’s been really interesting to see everybody pull back — there is still a demand for white cabinets, but the direction we’re headed is stained cabinets.”
Wetzel said the KB Home Design studio first started seeing lighter wood stains — like ash, honey or blonde — paired with clean, white quartz countertops. However, they predict that the spectrum of woods will widen in 2024, with customers opting for black and espresso stains.
Personalization
Another strong trend Wetzel expects to see throughout 2024 is personalization in the form of mixing old and new styles — for example, sourcing furniture or art from flea markets and thrift stores to create a space that’s unlike anybody else’s.
That curated touch can make a space feel cozy and give it an “heirloom feel,” Wetzel said.
Additionally, Wetzel predicts new owners will be most eager to personalize the kitchen. As he puts it, the kitchen really examples one’s design vision and can amplify their sense of style within the home.
Sustainability
KB Home is currently attempting to build more sustainable homes by incorporating LED lighting, which has a much longer lifespan than traditional lighting. Modern versions of LED lights offer enhanced visual comfort, allowing homeowners to control the strength and color of the lighting in their home.
Additionally, KB Home is adding water features that restrain water while producing the same waterpower of faucets of the past.
Visit the KB Home Design Studio in Houston or check out their website at KBHome.com for more information.