Parade of Homes

8 Parade of Homes Spring 2014 although the kitchen is central in the open- concept home, all the kitchen business isn't out in the open — microwaves are tucked into their own drawers and fridges are camouflaged to match cabinetry. Fenwick says there's a shift from granite to man- ufactured quartz countertops, which are more heat resistant. They can also guarantee unifor- mity, something granite can't always do. Quartz counter- tops may incorporate inserts of natural stone as a feature, and backsplashes are com- ing under the influence of Moroccan or Turkish design, with lots of colour, creating a wow factor. "and you're seeing the op- posite where it's pared right down. That's the Scandina- vian influence where it's very simple and sleek," Fenwick says. On the colour scale, Pan- tone's colour of the year is ra- diant Orchid — purple to you — and Fenwick says there's a trend toward subtle glamour. "it's almost as if the colours are filtered through smoke and sunlight. Then, with a feature, you can add that hit or a pop of colour like say, an acid yellow," she says. "you're seeing a lot of that kind of deeper, denim-look blue as well. Turquoise is a new hot colour too. and softer tones are in, but if you really want to make a statement, it's black and white and geometrics." Thorsteinson says earth tones and colours from nature are still very popular, as are features made with natural elements. "Stone and wood are front and centre in interiors with feature walls carrying some importance. and at the same time, every- thing feels more simplistic, believe it or not." Master bedrooms are spacious and often incorporate a seating area large enough for a settee or a couple of chairs for reading. and textures are changing in upholstery and draperies. "cowhides! They're coming off the floor and onto furniture," Fenwick says. "i don't know if we're ready for that one but it's definitely a trend. corduroy upholstery is really in right now. The textures are getting heavier on upholstery, but getting lighter on the windows. We're getting away from the heavy drapes and into light, light coverings on the windows — either just roller shades or sheers. acrylic furniture is on its way back, too. "We're using the acrylic ghost chair in the new hSc Lottery house. i think it's a way to blend the traditional with contem- porary. you're going to see it in chairs, cocktail tables and din- ing room tables." For special features, Fenwick says built-in wine cabinets are gaining ground, and sleek linear ribbon fireplaces are a hot, clean look. "i think the words to describe the new trends are relaxed and unpretentious. We want things to be simple to allow our minds to de-clutter when we come home. i think that peoples' lives are complex and when they come home they want simplicity." 'I think the words to describe the new trends are relaxed and unpretentious. We want things to be simple to allow our minds to de-clutter when we come home' SImPly SoPHIStIcated Cont'd from page 7 Kdr homes – 16 Waterstone drive

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