Top 6 Design Concepts Here to Stay
At Pamela Hope Designs, we are continuously working with clients who are planning high-end interior design projects. One of the questions we get most frequently from our clients is what are the interior design concepts that are here to stay? We wanted to share with you our list of the top six that will stand the test of interior design time. Read all about the concepts we believe here to stay.
1. Minimalism in Kitchens
When we think about minimalism in kitchens it is about a design look and feel. Minimalism can improve the usability of the kitchen by focusing on the elements that our clients desire and removing those that are extraneous. Usually we see minimalism with clean lines and integrated storage spaces ideal for making the most of your space. The design element of minimalism works very well in small spaces where storage is key. As well, we see this working in larger spaces where our clients are desiring a specific smart and clean look. If you’re an avid cook or kitchen gadget lover, having smart storage can make all of the difference from a kitchen that feels filled with clutter to one that is organized and efficient. Minimalism is something that is here to stay however you define it for your home. Nearly everyone seeks more simplicity in their lives. Streamlining your kitchen goes a long way towards that goal. Below you will see a sleek and efficient example of a kitchen we designed for a favorite client. You can read more about minimalism from us here.
2. Curved Forms in Furniture 
Curved forms in furniture have been around for centuries with ancient civilizations such as the Greeks and the Romans incorporating curved elements. We see this trend continue today as it is often known to create a more inviting space. Round kitchen tables bring together the group so everyone can see each other in a way that a rectangular table cannot accomplish for conversation. Elegant sofas and chairs have curvature to create more inviting spaces. As well we see the forms of curves show up in a slight curve that appears in a coffee table or a subtle curve in a dresser in the bedroom. When we work with our clients to determine their dream spaces we often hear the desire for a home to bring together people. Using curved forms can do just that and can be chosen in a way that also meets the other design elements of the client. One caveat is to take care and not include too many curves in a room. Some curved furniture is looking a little extreme right now. We feel like the trend of huge, rounded, fun house designs are not classic while just like in fashion, adding curves in the right places is definitely a good look. One of our best examples of this we love from a local home in Houston where we brought in this design element with chairs.
3. Spaces for Relaxation 
When we think of home, we think of a place of retreat where we can go to rest, connect and rejuvenate. Our clients are continuously looking for ways to incorporate space for relaxation into their homes in a way that meets their unique design aesthetic. When we think about creating relaxing spaces, all elements of interior design can be included to focus on colors, textures and functional layouts to induce the sense of comfort. For example, these clients wanted furniture that provided an in-home movie theater experience. We added personalized style to the room by incorporating sleek chairs and hanging black and white photos of their favorite hotels.
Another place where we have seen relaxing spaces take off recently amongst our clients in Houston is in outdoors spaces. Many are making their outdoor spaces an extension of their indoor space. We have seen beautiful dining room tables, chandeliers, and complete outdoor kitchens that make enjoying the outdoor space a unique and incredible experience. Clients also lean into outdoor spaces by adding an outdoor entertaining room area complete with a sofa, chairs, fireplaces, TVs and rugs to make these spaces truly relaxing.
4. Accented Ceilings 
A beautifully accented ceiling adds a unique touch to our clients homes. This element of interior design dates back centuries where it would appear in homes of royalty. It can be subtle with neutral colors or very bold. Paint, paneling and wallpaper are what we most often design for our clients, including some gorgeous treatments done with wood. Today, we most often design these ceiling treatments in higher-end homes for clients who want that extra touch. An accented ceiling is something that sets your home apart and can tie in other elements of the room. Take a look at this glamorous barrel ceiling that adds an air of grandeur to the eye-catching bathroom.
5. Biophillic Design 
Biophilic design brings elements of the outdoors, in – it’s just a fancy name for it! We have seen this in corporate spaces for years and it is now trending in residential design as well. Most people already embrace biophilia to some degree by adding simple house plants which bring in natural beauty and a sense of serenity. Some may want to go further and create indoor gardens and greenery walls. Other ways to incorporate this trend is to use natural and organic materials and streamlined styles. Bathrooms are a great place to incorporate biophilic design because they are a natural place for rejuvenation. Here’s an example in a primary bathroom we designed with a clean spa-like environment.
6. Draperies 
Great draperies can really transform a space. We work with our clients to integrate perfectly designed draperies in a way that compliments the entire home. Draperies can make a bold statement or simply bring the softness and texture needed to make the house feel more like home. Some clients want to showcase their exquisite windows and the outdoor space which becomes a way to frame the window in a way that highlights that exterior space. Hand-crafted drapery can turn a window into a true focal point. At this client home in Houston, in-town living dictated a need for stylish draperies that let in light while providing privacy throughout the second floor.
We are off to our next design adventure.
Fondly,
Pamela Hope Designs
MEET PAMELA, A LUXURY INTERIOR DESIGNER IN HOUSTON
Pamela O’Brien is the founder of Pamela Hope Designs in Houston, Texas. Pamela is an award-winning luxury interior designer, writer, and speaker. Prior to founding Pamela Hope Designs, Pamela served as a spokesperson in media and public affairs, working with media outlets like Dateline NBC and 48 Hours. This experience allowed her to travel the world and furthered her love for travel, culture, and interior design. After attending an executive course at the Harvard Graduate School of Design, Pamela launched her own interior design firm full-time. Pamela is known for building strong relationships with her clients, who later become friends and collaborators. She is highly influential in the Houston interior design space and shows no signs of slowing down.
