5 Easy and Inexpensive Ways to Update Your Home for 2016

How to add some trendy flair to your space without breaking the bank.

home design trends 2016

Images via Woohome and Pigment.

It seems like every few months there’s a home design trend that breezes in, captivates us, and then trickles down to the masses, slowly making its way to the interiors of a 7th grader’s locker at school. (Chevron, I’m talking to you.) That’s why designer Rex Rogosch, owner of R Squared Design, steers his clients away from trends when doing a big remodel. He always asks, “Do you like this because it’s trendy, or because you truly like it and you’ve always liked it?” Home remodels should be built to last, in Rex’s point of view, which is sound advice from a designer. 

If you do want to incorporate trendy elements in your home, more power to you! We’re onboard as well. But it makes much more sense to do so in a non-permanent, inexpensive way — ya know, just in case you change your mind about that massive chevron accent wall. Here are five ways to update your home for 2016 that won’t break the bank (or any drywall). 

The Trend: Reclaimed wood

The Quick Fix: So the industrial look is in right now, but adding reclaimed wood beams across the ceiling of your living room is a major undertaking. Opt for a smaller nod to the trend with cute wall accents like this gorgeous mirror (locally made!), or try framing a few family photos in rustic wood.

warm metals

Images via My Domaine and Shelterness.

The Trend: Warm metals in the kitchen

The Quick Fix: Before you replace your ceramic sink with a brushed gold one (we want it too, trust), try making little changes, like swapping classic silverware for these cute hammered-copper utensils. Copper pots and pans are also great, because they can double as hanging art if stored in plain sight.

philly shops for guys

Images via Pinterest and The Design Files.

The Trend: Geometric tiles

The Quick Fix: Instead of ripping up and re-flooring your entire bathroom, tap into the trend by displaying cool, mismatched tiles on some empty shelf space. It’ll add some depth and character to the room that you never knew was missing.

The Trend: Scandinavian design elements

The Quick Fix: Don’t replace your kitchen cabinet storage with minimal shelving just because “Scandinavia is so hot right now.” Instead, switch out your traditional barstools with something a little more minimal and crisp.

The Trend: Concrete

The Quick Fix: Don’t go swapping out your kitchen counters or bathroom walls just yet. See how a few cute concrete planters feel around the house — bonus points if you assemble a mini succulent terrarium.

See? Updating your home for 2016 doesn’t have to mean a massive remodel or expensive venture. Simply add a few trendy accents to brighten up your place, and voila! You’ve got the coolest place on the block.