Biophilic design, still on the rise in architecture, acknowledges the many ways nature interacts with and contributes to physical and emotional wellbeing. Mindful integration of elements from the natural environment within built environments helps people feel connected and grounded. It’s no surprise that many of 2020’s interior design trends are influenced by this architectural trend.

But fear not, lovers of luxury, today’s nod to nature doesn’t mean we’re revisiting hippie havens of decades past. Our San Luis Obispo custom home builders explain how forward-thinking interior designers see 2020 shaping your spaces.

Modern, Yet Approachable Combos

Bold patterns and geometrics will be paired with organic elements such as live-edge tables and countertops, to give spaces warmth combined with a modern flair. Soft rugs and natural fabrics will add balance in spirited spaces where eye-catching designer tile or daring wall coverings make stylish statements.

Neutrals Au Natural

We’ll see warm neutral colors such as gray and beige set the stage in the same way desert landscapes help showcase an unexpected oasis or sunset. Think riverbeds, beach walks and rocky cliffs accented by stimulating, awe-inspiring tones found in plants and wildlife.

Surfaces Touched By Nature

Textures inspired by stone, timber and plant materials will add pleasure and interest to walls, fireplaces, and furniture. People will want to run their eyes or fingers across everything from floors to accessories to enjoy the comforting surfaces they’re familiar with.

Evolving Living Spaces

The adaptability found in nature will be demonstrated in design. Long popular, great rooms will be reimagined to signal a return of intimacy. Expect furniture that invites swift room reconfiguration based on occupants and activities. Look for rooms that change size and shape through use of convertible partitions, artwork, or planters. Flexible lighting options will help set the mood, helping a space go from a bright, inspiring morning-starter to a slower-paced dusky relaxation zone.

Our builders love helping our clients evaluate how today’s trends and material options can enhance their lives and support their lifestyles. When it’s time to create your next beautiful, comfortable home on the Central Coast, count on our full-service team for great ideas and on-trend or up-to-date information you can trust.

As the new decade draws near, custom luxury homes will impress visitors with nods to nature and innovative design that combines materials of the past with the technology of the future. Let’s take a look at some design trends and features we expect outside 2020’s new homes.

Solar Innovation Heats Up

Renewable energy has a bright, sunny future in California. The state’s solar mandate requires PV solar on almost all new single-family and multi-family homes up to 3 stories tall. For building permits filed on or after January 1, 2020, most new dwellings in California will require photovoltaic solar systems. While the reliance on solar is by mandate, the product and design trends will be driven by the industry, builders, and site specifications. We expect California to lead the way with creative methods to incorporate solar without making it a focal point of design. We’re looking forward to advances in thin-film technology and stealthy installation and design techniques that allow solar to make a difference without always making a statement.

Nature Sets the Tone

Opulent is out. Design, materials, and colors will take their cues from nature. Expect more (and darker) earth tones, use of natural stone instead of highly polished, and water features that mimic natural pools to eclipse fancy fountains and splashy spas. The use of exterior metalwork will remain popular, with a focus on structural materials with earthy-looking oxidized finishes rather than shiny, ornate fabrications.

Siding Shakes It Up

Shake siding and its close cousin shingle siding experienced bursts of popularity at the turn of the 20^th century and again in the 1970s. Today, they’re back on the design scene. Whether used exclusively or bundled with vertical siding, stone, or brick, shake and shingle sidings are adding dimension and interest while softening appearances. Expect to see both traditional cedar and durable, low maintenance alternatives such as cement fiber.

The Indoors Come Out To Play

For a while, it was all about bringing the outdoors in. Now, we’re bringing the indoors out. Here on the Central Coast, our temperate climate makes outdoor living not only possible but often preferable. Outdoor kitchens are being joined by wet bars and natural gas fire pits with comfortable seating for cozy communal meals with friends.. Simplified by portable smart home technology, it’s even easier to manage outdoor entertainment, nature-inspired water features, and variable lighting to match any mood. Add landscaping that provides protection from excessive sun or wind, and you’ll be California dreaming through most seasons.

The year 2020 will make its mark with graceful, welcoming dwellings. Home exteriors will be built to impress not through outspoken ostentatious calls for attention, but with understated, yet lusciously livable form and function. We expect architectural design to continue to draw inspiration from across decades and around the globe while refining the integration of nature, durable materials and evolving technology. Are you ready to meet the team of luxury home builders who will turn your 2020 vision into a lasting reality? Contact us today.