What Will The Housing Trends Be For 2017

   Typically, trends, will begin with interior designers, builders and architects. The trends these professionals start are cutting edge and slowly make their way into the mainstream.  Some of these trends, become  "the hot new design element" or are never heard of.  At one time granite was the hottest design trend for counter tops; however, now it has lost the limelight to quartz.

The 2017 design trends are emerging and can help guide a seller in what choices to make, when completing a renovation project or a face lift.  Making a design choice that is following a current trend can help drive a home sale price up due to increased interest and multiple offers; along with selling faster.

Below are three emerging design trends for 2017:

 1. Counter-top Options

At one time granite was the go to option and was everyone's favorite choice.  For 2017 quartz and quartzite are the new favored choice because of their durability, variety of colors, and their ability to resist stains.

Quartz -- quartz counter tops are made from natural silicon and synthetic materials,  It is blended with with a resin and pigment to form a counter top. Since the material is engineered a variety of pigments
can be added  for a wide variety of colors, It will mimic natural stone but because it is engineered the patterns will be more uniform.  Quartz is non-porous, does not have to be sealed and resists stains, less prone to denting and chipping. Quartz prices can range from $60 to $100 a square foot.

Quartzite -- Quartzite is a  natural stone that is made when sandstone is exposed to extreme heat and pressure.  Quartzite comes in a variety of grays, whites, pinks and reds; however, hues of yellow,
blue, green, and orange can be found in quartz when other minerals are present in the sandstone.  Quartz will have a streaking pattern because of the different degrees of pressure while the stone is being formed.  Quartz is porous and must be sealed prior to use, is very hard but is prone to denting and chipping, and staining (if not properly maintained). Quartzite prices are similar to Quartz but if the job is more complex, Quartzite will be more expensive because it must be cut with a diamond saw.

Either counter-top option will increase the value of  a home but the one chosen will depend on a sellers budget and preferences.

2. Cork

Cork is a renewable resource and offers a green option for those sellers and buyers who are
environmentally conscious.  Cork is extremely flexible and can be used  on flooring, walls and furniture.  Cork is very stylish, forgiving, adds warmth and absorbs noise in large open spaces.  Cork can be used to create a focal wall in an office or child's room as a way to display creative art pieces or organize office reminders.  As a flooring it resits scratches, retains heat and is comfy to stand on.  Cork is very budget friendly costing anywhere from $3 to $5 a square foot.  The use of cork in a space can take a dull space into an interesting conversation piece.  For selling, the use of an interesting element, such as cork, will stand out in a buyers mind.  When buyers are looking at several homes (a design element) that helps to create a positive impression will keep the home at the top of their favorites list.

3. Subway Tiles

Many modern designs of bathrooms and kitchens have seen the resurgence of the subway tile. It is a classic, simple, clean look that is very affordable due to the relatively low price point of the tiles.  
 When considering the use of the subway tile it is very versatile; however, the look can be over used if careful consideration is not taken to how the tiles are laid out in a space. Consider laying the tiles vertically or in a herringbone pattern.  This allows the use of the classic tile in a space but adds a visual difference that is not typically used.  Also consider adding a mosaic tile that complements the subway tile running through the pattern either horizontally or vertically.  Use the popular tile for its classic look but have fun and be creative in how it is laid out.


 There is a fine line between trendy and off the wall design; new trends will push the boundaries and some will tip into the hot new design. Others will become obsolete and never take hold. As a seller, one must balance new trends with what is popular in their area.  Knowledge of the market and trends will help a seller make an informed decision on what design choice will bring the highest interest, best price, and a quick sale!!