If you’re considering a remodel as part of your plans for 2018, there are a number of things to consider. While we love the unique and innovative remodeling trends that are just coming onto the scene, we often recommend that clients look into a mix of trendy and timeless pieces that their going to love for many years to come. So with that said, here are our favorite remodeling trends for 2018 that won’t be going anywhere any time soon!

Trend #1: Accessibility

Not only is this trend absolutely stunning, it’s also incredibly functional. Redesigning common spaces like kitchens, family and dining rooms to reflect a more open layout allows you to utilize all of the space available, and make the most of each room.

This can be quite an extensive project, but it’s really up to you how you’d like to proceed with a design like this. We’re not going to lie, removing entire walls to create an open floor plan isn’t an easy project, but there are ways to mimic the effect without going to the extreme. A great middle-of-the-road compromise that we’ve seen people do is to create pass-throughs or widen entry ways. This still makes the space look larger and more open, without the full cost of taking down an entire wall. That being said, consult with your contractor before making a decision one way or another. Often times the cost for taking a wall down isn’t as exorbitant as people think.

For entertainers, this trend is a godsend. Open living plans allow you to interact with all your guests, so you don’t all end up sectioned off in different rooms. Additionally, these designs are great for foodies and those who spend most of their time in the kitchen. With extensive counter space, you can prepare any dish while keeping an eye on your kids in the family room.

To add some extra storage into these designs, custom cabinetry is the way to go. Specially designed upper and lower kitchen cabinets are great for organization, and TV stands with additional storage space are perfect for concealing toys, gaming consoles, and additional wires and cables, creating a clean and polished look.

Trend #2: Texture, Tone and Tile

The days of all white interiors with subway tile are behind us, and it’s a bright future ahead. Taking a nod from the brightly colored accent walls that we’ve seeing for years, this fun twist on classic pieces can breathe new life back into an otherwise average space.

One of the easiest ways to interject this trend is with tiling. Smaller spaces like your backsplash or shower tiling are great ways to brighten up a space without overwhelming it. Whether it’s an innovative pattern with a neutral color palette, or a classic style that’s been revamped in a new shade, these smaller projects often have a much bigger impact than you would expect.

A word of caution though: Before you decide on a color or pattern, consider what you’re going to think about it in 5 or 10 years. You may love millenial pink now, but it might not be your cup of tea down the road. This doesn’t mean you have to shy away from colors entirely, but more muted shades like navy or olive tend to have better longevity.

Trend #3: Swapping Storage for Style

More and more, we’re seeing clients that want to take their attics and basements and turn them into fully functional entertainment spaces. Whether that’s an extra guest bedroom, office, playroom or game room, it seems like everyone is trying to take advantage of all the extra square footage available.

The good news about this trend, is that it doesn’t need to be a complete swap. You can still opt for an attic or basement remodel, without sacrificing all your storage space. Again, the key here is customizable cabinetry. Built in shelving units look great, but can also hide away the things you don’t want to have out all the time.

With most of these trends, as well as others that are cropping up as we move into the new year, it’s about finding a balance between style and structure. Interjecting these trends into your remodel doesn’t just look fantastic, it helps to ensure that you’ll still be getting the most use out of these spaces for years to come.