We’ve recently spent some time talking with our design friends about their expectations for 2015 Design Trends and have narrowed down the many ideas to a hand-full that we think will matter to residents of West Vancouver and North Vancouver.

Fads are short-lived events that fade as quickly as they came, whereas trends show the potential for influencing the market in the long-term, and that’s where we want to focus in the blog below.

Remodeling versus Moving

Seems that more people lately are choosing to “love it” rather than “list it.” Perhaps to save on the cost of real estate fees or just because they like their area and their neighbours. Here’s an example of one of our North Vancouver concept projects. Given the owner’s living situation and specific zoning it’s making more sense for them to stay with their existing property. Obviously each situation is unique, but this is a trend that is expected to increase in high cost land areas like the North Shore.

Blending modern and traditional

The move to simplicity with cleaner contemporary designs has been underway for a number of years. What will be different in 2015 is the re-introduction of traditional elements that marry sleek modern elements with warmer traditional touches. Materials are being mixed, like natural wood finishes with stainless steel, and marble with wood. And the addition of warmer accent colors is also replacing the use of stark all-white walls.

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Healthy Home

Our North Shore zoning is changing to promote drier and more energy efficient homes at the same time that public awareness of healthy living spaces is increasing. But it’s not just energy use and air quality that will take the full focus going forward. This concept is expanding to include drinking water safety, fire protection and accident prevention, among others. So whether it’s safer paints, non off gassing floors and cabinets or touchless faucets and toilets, this is a trend that is here to stay.

Reclaimed wood and upcycled materials

Great wood doesn’t just grow on trees, but of course it once did. And the fact remains that much of the wood that was used in the past was superior (think ‘old growth trees’ versus ‘new’). Reclaimed wood products can be used in almost any household room and there are many Vancouver-based companies providing fantastic products for the market.But wood shouldn’t get all the glory. The skys the limit with upcycling old products and materials into new and useful things (that can save you money). Take a look at both Pinterest and Houzz for inspirational upcycling ideas.

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Faux Cedar Shake and Composite Decking

It doesn’t take long to figure out that we get our fair share of rain on Vancouver’s North Shore. And while we love the look, feel and smell of real wood there are cases where a substitute product may be superior. On exterior surfaces it might make sense to use a combination of real wood in areas closer to human activity and then substitute composite materials in remote spots that are more exposed to the elements. Smart selection of external finishes creates an exterior that’s not only attractive but easy to maintain.

So whether you’re renovating in 2015, or building a custom home, make sure to choose a trustworthy builder who understands not only what’s going on in the industry but also how that applies to your specific neighbourhood. In addition to their building skills they should be able to provide valuable knowledge so that you end up with the amazing home that you deserve.