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FINISHES
Home & Business Brushed nickel is still strong as a hardware finish. It works as a timeless
Solar Made Easy neutral. Last year, gold was trending, a very warm and beautiful finish,
but I think the best application for gold tones is in the higher end mar-
ket. The lower priced gold finishes just don’t make the cut, as they lack
the look of quality. Oil-rubbed bronze is still relevant, especially for a
warmer feel than nickel, and could also be considered a classic finish.
TILE
Tile is a big investment, and if you get too trendy, it will quickly date
your home. Subway tile continues to be classic, timeless and afford-
able. An update for subway tile is to consider a contrasting grout color.
Cement tile is another trend, beautiful with a soft matte finish. As a
rule, you can almost always choose tile in a matte finish, whether terra-
cotta, cement, stone or porcelain. It will have longevity in your home.
Matte tiles allow for the shape and color to become the main focus,
rather than the finish, adding a layer of sophistication to a space. Shiny,
colorful glazed tiles are trending in some high end homes, but they may
date themselves before you would want to replace them. Faux wood
tile is also becoming extremely popular, which can be great when you
need an indestructible surface.
COUNTERTOPS
Granite has had its run here and everywhere for quite some time,
and marble has been a close second in high end homes, but the MVP
now is quartz. Quartz is man-made, nonporous, and scratch and stain
resistant, making it super tough. Mold, bacteria and mildew cannot
penetrate the surface, which doesn’t require resealing, so the long-
term maintenance is excellent. As with tile trends above, a quartz
countertop, glossy or matte, can become a shimmering surface that
is less dominate than other materials, and thus you may not tire of it
over time.

There are countless details to be considered whether you are building
or remodeling. We have only skimmed the surface, but hopefully, you
can take these guidelines with you as you forge ahead in creating a
beautiful home. Cheers!

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