10 Inspiring Interior Design Trends for 2019 

Where has the year gone? 2018 is flying past and it’s already time to look at the colours and trends we will be swooning over in 2019. Here’s what we know so far…

1. Sing a rainbow

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

Pantone has just released two colour palettes we will be craving in 2019. While Ultra Violet is still going strong, they are predicting the colours of 2019 for home and design will be inspired by focus, "because of the infinite choices of our time and the need to hone in on those that capture roving eyes, Pantone View home + interiors 2019 is a color roadmap that is focused on the colors that are leading the way towards a diverse, imaginative future." The very first palette ‘Cravings’ is inspired by food and is all rich reds, flamingo orange and rich purples, held down at the neutrals end by rich warm browns. ‘Classico’, as the name implies, is a collection of fundamental and everlasting colours that includes rich teal, grey flannel, rich gold and apricot. Meanwhile, Night Watch has already been named paint colour of the year by a popular US-based paint company. It’s a deep, jade-like green that has strong references to nature, which feeds into some of the broader trends around calmness, tech-free spaces and nature.

2. Art Deco - The New Mid Century modernism?

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

With Mid Century Modern well and truly entrenched in our interiors loving hearts, the hunt is on for the Next Big Thing. Increasingly, people who know about these things think Art Deco has spent enough time waiting in the wings and will step out to take centre stage in 2019. As one of the most inspiring, opulent and glamorous periods in design history, hints of Art Deco are popping up in detailing on tables, chairs, lighting and the mixed metals trend also gives a nod to the style. And let’s face it, we all love a touch of glamour, don’t we?

3. Matt Black is the New Grey

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

Nothing creates a sense of drama better than black. Expect to see bold, high-contrast designs all over your Instagram feeds in 2019, as matt black moves from fashion and beauty into homewares and interiors. Lighting, seating, home décor objects and sideboards are all key pieces you can introduce to reference the trend. This one is likely to be with us for a long time, as well as a good time.

4. Sustainable and Natural Fabrics

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

Across homes, sustainable and natural fabrics are going to be a key trend that will hit the mainstream in 2019. Look for it in upholstered furniture, throws, cushions and tapestries, which are also getting some attention as a potential micro-trend to keep an eye on. The movement towards natural fabrics speaks to the broader conversations across design right now that is all about embracing a peaceful retreat from crazy, modern life. The good news is the embrace of natural textiles will work across so many styles and looks.

5. Less is more - minimalism and clean lines especially in the kitchen 

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

As minimalism continues to blaze a clutter-free path through the interiors world, it is creating a demand for clean lines and a sense of openness across the whole house. In the kitchen, this is taking shape through a no upper cabinet trend. If the idea of less storage in the kitchen has you panicking quietly (or loudly) inside, a popular option in future-proof kitchen remodels is to include an armoire. Staying in the kitchen, bold colours on both appliances and cabinetry is another trend coming to a kitchen renovation near you.

6. Bar Carts

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

Bar carts have been hot in 2018 and they’re not going anywhere in 2019. What’s to love about a bar cart? Everything! Nothing says Mid-Century (or will it be Art Deco?) glamour like a bar cart. If you like entertaining and mixing the odd cocktail, a bar cart lets you take the elegance - and the party - anywhere in your home for maximum versatility. It’s also the perfect place to store treasured glassware, bottles and create themed vignettes.

7. Hygge will continue

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

In one form or another Reflecting the need for a calm, cosy retreat and an overall focus on wellbeing led to Hygge being a major trend over the past few years. And although there have been predictions for the emergence of new trends based on ideas around moderation, wellness and cosiness such as còsagach (Scotland) and Lagom (Sweden), nothing has been able to halt the gentle onward march on Hygge. At this stage, it looks here to stay, in one form or another in 2019.

8. Gold, Gold and more Gold

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

This metallic finish has had a revamp and it is predicted that it is going to come at us in a major way in 2019. With finishes covering gold patinas, black gold and bright golds being paired with raw natural finishes and high-end appliances, gold has never looked so good.

9. Go Green

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

Will indoor plants ever go out of style? Nope. Big things are predicted for the Pilea peperomioides (middle image), the Chinese Money plant, as well as plants with patterned leaves are about to become a big hit. If you don’t have confidence in your green thumbs, a high-quality artificial plant is the answer. These days artificial plants are indistinguishable from the real thing and beyond a casual dusting require absolutely no gardening skills at all.

10. Your Personal Style

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

Trends are inspiring and act as a guide when you are about to decorate or update a space, but the most important design expert you can ever bring on board to a project is… you! Decorate your space with the things that are valuable to you, remind you of good times or are just beautiful to you. Trust yourself and enjoy the space you create!

I would love to hear from you! Please share Your Favorite 2019 trend with us in the comment below or on my social media.

Are you interested in selling or buying your home in the next few months? Work with award winning realtor, Carmen Leal and her team that specialize in Real Estate Vancouver and have qualified Buyers that are looking for a home in your area! 604.218.4846 & www.carmenleal.ca  

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

                                                                This communication is not intended to induce breach of existing listing agreement.

Make-Your-Own Wall Art Projects

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

If you are a novice crafter or want a project you can do with your little ones, try one of the simpler DIY wall art ideas like the fired ink or the abstract paintings. Looking for more grown-up DIY wall décor? This list has tons of wall art designs for every room in your house from a washi tape “headboard” to a stylish mirror made out of paint sticks! If you are an expert at crafting, many of these DIY wall arts, like the cut canvas and woven paper, will be a fun challenge for you.

The list below has DIY wall décor projects for every aesthetic from bright and colorful to rustic to minimalist. A far cry from your grandma’s cross-stitch or kids’ finger drawings, these gorgeous ideas will blow you away!

1. DIY Cut Canvas Tree Art

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

This cut canvas tree is a beautiful addition to any wall. Even better, it goes well with all of your favorite decor styles. Even though it’s an easy project to create, it still maintains a very professional appearance. If you want to add serenity to your home then this is a great project for you!

2. Faux Flower Wall Art Tutorial

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

If you love bouquets but aren’t always able to buy a fresh bunch of flowers for your home then you’ll love this next project. This piece of wall art creates the opportunity to combine all of your favorite flowers into one stunning design. You can choose different colors to add variety or stick with a more uniform appearance.

Project details HERE

3. Washi Tape Geometric Wall Art

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

This piece combines two of the hottest trends in DIY wall decor right now. Washi tape and geometric shapes pair very nicely with one another. This piece is especially appealing because its clean lines give it the appearance of a professionally made print and also create a three-dimensional appearance.

Project details HERE

4. Spray Paint Botanical Art

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

There is no doubt that the urban jungle and plants in general have been trending for some time now. Everyone loves plants and flowers!
Project details HERE

5. Popsicle Stick Hearts DIY Wall Art Design

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

There are so many great Popsicle stick wall decor ideas out there. Popsicle sticks are awesome for DIY wall art projects, because the sticks are indistinguishable until you peer up close. You can style your Popsicle hearts just like this photo or make your own variation by changing up the colors and amount of hearts!

Project details HERE

6. Decoupage Animal Photos on Painted Canvas

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

This is one of the best baby wall decor ideas. If you’re expecting an addition to your family and decorating your baby nursery then this idea is for you! These pieces also make fabulous baby shower gifts and can easily be made with a variety of animals and to have a gender-neutral appearance.

Project details HERE

7. Easy DIY Paper Dahlia Decorations

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

Who doesn’t love paper wall decor ideas? The elegant floral bursts are a delicate decoration for any wall. This idea translates especially well as an accent piece in nurseries as well as in child, teen, or adult bedrooms. These gray tones are cool and calm, but you could choose a different color to create the mood of your choice.

Project details HERE

8. Simple Canvas Mounted Flowers Tutorial

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

This floral piece is one of the most delightful nature wall decor ideas because it brings the outdoors inside year-round! This piece looks especially fabulous on walls when created in multiples. So grab a canvas and your favorite fake or dried flowers to get started on this lovely piece!

Project details HERE

9. Rustic Love Wood and Twine Art

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

This is one of the rustic wall decor ideas that will show everyone in your home some love. The piece is more than just for decoration, too. It can be used as a coatrack or headboard. A versatile piece like this is great because even if you move you’ll still have a spot available for it on your walls.

Project details HERE

10. Glitter and Light Canvas

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

When your home decor needs an upgrade, but expensive, ready-made items aren’t in your budget, DIY projects can be an easy and affordable solution for revitalizing rooms in your home. One simple way to enhance the character of a room is with lighted elements.

Add a glistening, on-trend look with a lighted canvas, which features twinkling lights that dance on shimmering glitter to lend a glam look to any room. The project, designed by crafting experts at Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores, can be adapted to any palette; just change out the color of the glitter to match the hues in your favorite room.
Project details HERE

11. Super Simple DIY Abstract Paintings

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

Marbleized wall decor ideas are incredibly popular right now among interior design trends and you can easily see why! This beautiful piece effortlessly adds a mix of color to your walls. The textures add a nice contrast to flat white walls and the colors liven up a room effortlessly.

Project details HERE

12. DIY Bamboo Skewer Wall Decor

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

If you love the mid-century modern or retro interior design look then this is one of the best wall decor ideas for you. These spheres are so easy to make and will really make your walls pop. If your walls appear boring then liven things up with some three-dimensional sculptural art!
Project details HERE

13. DIY Magazine Collage Bear Art

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

This is one of the most fun wall decor ideas to make. Best of all, you probably already have all the materials right at your fingertips. This piece of wall art is awesome because it uses recycled materials to make something amazing. The colorful magazine paper strips are sure to add interest and excitement to your walls.
Project details HERE

14. DIY “Floating” Flowers and Leaves

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

This project is a lovely accent for walls and windows. The simplicity of these pieces works well in any room, especially well lit spaces. The best part about this project is the colors and textures that the flowers and leaves contribute to your walls. This is one of the best spring and summertime wall decors ideas because you can collect a variety of materials from nature.

Project details HERE

15. Simple Framed Twig Homemade Wall Art

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

If you’re a nature lover than this piece of wall art is perfect for your home. It brings the outdoors inside! Collet your favorite fallen branches on your next walk and pick up some lumber to make this gorgeous framed twig project. It accents bedroom and living room walls especially well since it is a major focal point.

Project details HERE

16. DIY Framed Clothesline Photo Display

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

This project is one of the best wall decor ideas for tough to frame photographs like Polaroid photos. You can use any old frame by adding paint and securing wire or string in rows. You can even spice up your close pins with decorative tape or paint. This piece is a nice way to bring life to your walls.

Project details HERE

17.Love Looped Yarn Art Tutorial

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

The materials for this rustic piece are inexpensive and easy to come by. All you need are a few wooden boards, some nails, and yarn. This piece adds charm to any room and is great for family rooms, nurseries, and bedrooms. Projects like these are some of the best wall decor ideas because of the successful combination of textile and wood.

Project details HERE

18. Easy Popsicle Stick Shadow Box

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

At first glance, no one will even notice that this piece is built out of Popsicle sticks. It takes a mundane material and converts into something magical! You can paint and layer Popsicle sticks into any shapes to create this nifty accent shelf. This project makes a great summer project, giving you a reason to stock your fridge with icy treats!

Project details HERE

I would love to hear from you! Please share Your Own Wall Art Projects with us in the comment below or on my social media.

Are you interested in selling or buying your home in the next few months? Work with award winning realtor, Carmen Leal and her team that specialize in Real Estate Vancouver and have qualified Buyers that are looking for a home in your area! 604.218.4846 & www.carmenleal.ca  

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

                                                                 This communication is not intended to induce breach of existing listing agreement.

5 Home Décor Trends for 2019

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

As we move towards 2019, several important design trends are beginning to emerge. Here’s a preview of five of the top trends design and décor experts are predicting will be big in 2019.

From natural wood to plants to sage green, home décor trends in the year ahead include many ways to transform your home into a natural respite - a place to unwind surrounded by the calming influence of the natural world.

Here, we take a look at 5 home décor trends for 2019 to give you a head start on transforming your own home. One thing is for sure: luxury hardwood never goes out of style. It’s just a matter of which color, style, and placement fits the trend that speaks to you.

1. Statement Ceilings

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

The ceilings of 2019 will make you want to look up. Statement ceilings recall the ornate molded tin overheads of the lavish 1920s. Whether expressively painted, wallpapered, or covered in beautiful natural hardwood, expect the visual impact of foyers, living rooms, and dining areas to be above.

Ceilings dressed in contrasting wallpaper or geometric natural wood wall coverings create a surprise effect for those entering a room. And for those who prefer their walls free and clear of visual encumbrances, the statement ceiling is the perfect solution.

2. Sage Green

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

Move over, millennial pink, there’s a new shade in town. In 2019, blush-toned throw rugs and kitchen appliances will give way to sage green walls and couch cushions. A decidedly more contemplative hue, sage green has a uniquely calming allure.

If you haven’t already, expect to see more and more of sage green in your Instagram and Pinterest feeds. We have a feeling it will win you over in the same way it did us. The color is subdued and almost neutral, and pairs perfectly with retro rattan furniture or classic timber pieces. And nothing brings out the subtle beauty of sage like natural hardwood floors or accent walls.

3. Curves

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

When it comes to furnishings, walls and accent pieces, straight lines and sharp angles are out. Softer, rounder features will be on the minds of designers in 2019. A nod to 60s-era design, curved, soft furniture has been turning heads at design shows lately, where rigid right angles have begun to feel routine.

Beyond comfy sofas and loveseats, curves will also be seen in mirrors and frames as well. Tabletops, rugs, side chairs and benches - there’s no shortage of ways to bring this unique trend into your home in 2019.

4. Plants

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

Plants will continue their takeover of hip living rooms across the country in 2019. Monstera Deliciosas, Pilea Peperomioides, fiddle-leaf figs and more will be intertwined into all manners of design schemes. And nothing brings out the calming allure of plants like rustic, natural hardwood floors with plenty of character.

One of the most versatile décor elements, plants have a way of transforming just about any living space. Different plants can lend a room an elegant, welcoming, relaxing, and even friendly ambiance.

If you don’t have confidence in your green thumb, a high-quality artificial plant is the solution. These days, artificial plants are nearly indistinguishable from the real thing and beyond a casual dusting require no maintenance or gardening skills.

5. Natural Wood

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

Call us biased, but we love the trend toward natural wood throughout the home. Whether in trim and accents or as a unifying look, natural wood is slowly overtaking the crisp white kitchens that have been popular over the past few years.

Natural, light wood surfaces give kitchens a more relaxed feel. And if Scandinavian interiors appeal to your senses, you’re in luck. The use of natural wood fits seamlessly with their clean lines and uncluttered style.

Kitchens aren’t the only place where natural wood will reign supreme. Wood gives warmth to any room in the house, whether as a curated piece of furniture, a continuous natural hardwood floor, or even a wall covering.

I would love to hear from you! Please share your home decor trend with us in the comment below or on my social media.

Are you interested in selling or buying your home in the next few months? Work with award winning realtor, Carmen Leal and her team that specialize in Real Estate Vancouver and have qualified Buyers that are looking for a home in your area! 604.218.4846 & www.carmenleal.ca  

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

                                                                This communication is not intended to induce breach of existing listing agreement.

10 Home Trends Will Dominate 2019

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

New year, new you.

Once January 1 rolls around, we all make these grand resolutions to make ourselves healthier, more positive, more productive, and all-around better people. We buy a fancy gym membership. We forgo our favorite takeout spot in favor of a healthy, home-cooked meal. We even promise ourselves to not hit the snooze button more than once (okay, twice).

We commit to bettering ourselves - and rightfully so - but what about our homes? Simply put, our homes are a reflection of ourselves. It's where we eat, sleep, relax, bathe, and even work. So shouldn't we give our place the tender, loving care it deserves come the new year?

Of course, one of the most stylish ways to spruce up your space is by embracing some of the design world's hottest trends. To kickstart some inspiration, nine design experts share which trends they think will make it big come 2019.

1. Treat Yo'Self to Terrazzo

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

The biggest interior design trend of 2019 is terrazzo. With all this Memphis Milano '80s craze happening,  people buy terrazzo coffee tables, side tables, and tile floors. The terrazzo tile motif used on wallpaper and carpets. It's a trend from the past that is coming back with a modern twist.

2. Classic Kitchen

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

More traditional kitchen design is going to dominate 2019 (closed cabinetry, fine millwork details, wire mesh door panels, authentic period hardware, and honed surfaces will reign

In 2019, modern kitchen design will be about going to back to basics. Kitchens are being pared down to allow raw materials to shine on their own. Think wood, stone, shiplap, and jute.

3. Round It Out

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

Embrace a curvy design aesthetic. 1970s-inspired rounded furniture will continue to take over. Rounded back chairs are a chic way to bring the curvy trend into your home.

4. The Gilded Age

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

Mixing of metals will continue to take precedence, but it will come along with the mixing of textured materials. A variety of textures help add depth and contrast, creating a multi-dimensional room. Rich upholstery materials like velvet juxtaposed with cozier wools and cashmeres are a great addition to a mix of highlights from brass, iron, and gold-plated metals.

5. Green With Envy

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

The design trend I'm most excited to see develop in 2019 is the enthusiasm for green - as a color and as an ethos. Green is a calming, sophisticated and thought-provoking color. It imbues rooms with a sense of refinement and works well in botanical interiors. As we seek to protect and nurture our environment, to avoid plastics in our daily life and in our homes, the use of green on furniture and walls is a fabulous backdrop to the natural materials we're embracing. We haven't seen green embraced so widely since the Art Deco movement of the 1920s, so it's also a nod to those glory days of design and elegance. What's not to love?!

6. Au Naturale

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

Organic shapes will be a big hit this upcoming year. Look out for a revival of curved furniture in 2019. The hard, geometric lines that we've seen for the past few years are giving way to softer shapes in both prints and furniture shape.

7. Chic Contrast

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

High-contrast neutrals will be in style for 2019. While layering neutral textures is all the rage, we're also starting to see dark and light neutrals paired together for more drama and edge within a space.

8. In Living Color

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

Designers predict that will be seeing more and more people moving away from the beige minimalism that's really defined the past couple of years. I think design is headed in a much more daring direction as maximalist interiors full of bold colors, copious patterns, and rich textures going mainstream. Along those same lines, will also be seeing more eclectic spaces that play with different design styles and eras. Think contemporary pieces mixed with plenty of vintage, or modern design choices layered with Hollywood regency influences.

9. Affinity for Artisanal

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

The time has finally come that we will start veering away from these pastel toned geometric shapes. A lot more designers & makers reverting back to craft and finding ways to slow down. From experimenting with new materials to making limited quantities. 

10. Pattern Play

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

Pattern! Pattern mix of any and all kind… in fabrics, tile, rugs… layer them, pair them… matched or mismatched, pattern on pattern is a fresh spin on a more old world style. Think English country house meets Parisian pied-à-terre!

We would love to hear from you! Please share your home trends with us in the comment below or on my social media.

Are you interested in selling or buying your home in the next few months? Work with award winning realtor, Carmen Leal and her team that specialize in Real Estate Vancouver and have qualified Buyers that are looking for a home in your area! 604.218.4846 & www.carmenleal.ca  

Vancouver Realtor-Carmen Leal

                                                                              This communication is not intended to induce breach of existing listing agreement.