Interior Design and Architecture Ideas We Love

The worlds of residential interior design and architecture are embracing some fresh ideas and creative twists right now that have our creative juices flowing. The trends we’re seeing at Morgante Wilson Architects aren’t just about aesthetics – they’re shaping the way our clients want to live. Here are four shifts we see gaining steam:

Maximalism

The idea of “more is more” is a big change from the tailored, tone-on-tone, and carefully color-popped interiors of the recent past. Our clients are increasingly eager to go all-in when it comes to color, pattern, materials, and layering. Busy wallpapers; thoughtfully mixed and matched fabrics; fearless combining of metals; and accessorizing to the hilt with meaningful objects and nuanced textures are all topping our clients’ wish lists. While the look isn’t for everyone, the movement speaks to a rise in confident expressions of individuality, and unique-to-you design.

Scandinavian Farmhouse Style

Not to be confused with the “modern farmhouse style” we’ve all seen on HGTV, Scandinavian farmhouse style is just as relaxed, comfortable, and inviting. But it’s also airier, brighter, and more transitional. True, it features plenty of white and an equal amount of wood. But that white is married to soft grays and creams, and the wood skews toward lighter tones. Scandinavian farmhouse style blends the clean, minimalist lines of Scandinavian design with the rustic charm of a traditional American farmhouse. The resulting look is both modern and cozy, and a little less dark and industrial than the HGTV version.

Distinct separations of space

We’re not saying the days of the open concept floor plan are over. Far from it. But what we are noticing is that while our clients like the idea of being able to view their family room from the kitchen sink, they don’t want to see – or listen to – every single thing happening there. They’ve learned over the years that huge, open spaces require a certain amount of patience. You can’t have a Zen cooking experience in the kitchen if the television is blaring in the great room. Separation of spaces, when done well – think two-way fireplaces or built-in cabinetry as room dividers – maintains connections without overwhelming your senses.

Deep Dives

This may surprise you as much as it does us: swimming pools are making a big comeback. 25 years ago, we were ripping them out of backyards. Today we’re installing them inside the homes we design – sometimes in the basement, sometimes adjacent to the primary suite, and sometimes, yes, in the backyard. We think it’s due to a post-pandemic appreciation for staying home. We learned during COVID that we don’t have to leave the house to find fun and recreation, which is why media rooms, fitness spaces, sport courts, wine cellars, and even swimming pools are growing more popular every day. Fred’s own personal indulgence: a train room!

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