Hartford Courant

5 trends likely to last

- By Dan DiClerico HomeAdviso­r

A lot of home design trends are over fast, making homes feel dated — think plastic furniture covers or shag carpet in the bathroom. Others have the power to endure, either because they strike the right balance of style and functional­ity, or they solve a real problem for homeowners.

We turned to the pros at HomeAdviso­r to pinpoint five trends in home design that should deliver satisfacti­on and value over the long haul. trend also appeals to older homeowners, who are looking to stay in their homes as they age. Examples include self-cleaning gutters, which eliminate the need to climb up and down ladders, or lowmainten­ance groundcove­rs in place of labor-intensive lawns. tures that spark the most joy in homeowners, right up there with up-to-date kitchens and bathrooms.

Manufactur­ers have responded with a slew of products and materials aimed at maximizing the outdoor living experience, including weather-resistant countertop­s, backyard fire pits and folding glass doors that create a seamless transition between the indoors and outdoors.

The wellness trend is evident all over the house, starting with the kitchen. Steam ovens, for example, which are a fast and healthy way to prepare meals, are being tapped by more designers, according to data from the National Kitchen & Bath Associatio­n. Small appliance sales are also surging, including blenders for smoothies, dips and other healthful recipes, and multi-cookers that can whip up a batch of quinoa, oatmeal or even yogurt.

Beyond the kitchen, HomeAdviso­r pros are seeing a rise in wellness rooms, whether for yoga, meditation or a spin on the Internet-connected stationary bike. These spaces are a way for homeowners to ensure that their bodies and minds stand the test of time, as much as the home design trends listed here.

 ?? MIKE SIEGEL/THE SEATTLE TIMES ?? Homeowners are increasing­ly seeking long-lasting materials; quartz countertop­s are becoming ever more popular.
MIKE SIEGEL/THE SEATTLE TIMES Homeowners are increasing­ly seeking long-lasting materials; quartz countertop­s are becoming ever more popular.

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from United States