LOVE IT or HATE IT? Three Changes To Long Standing Trends

2. LOW CEILINGS
Let's be real...life in general is more expensive than ever! Our home's heating and cooling bills are no exception, and having lower ceilings in your home keeps you feeling comfortable longer, without your hvac working overtime. I know, I know....vaulted ceilings are LOVELY and they do make your home feel larger and more grand. They also allow all your warm and cool air to disappear.

3. REPLACING KITCHEN ISLANDS WITH LARGE TABLES
Yes, you read that right. Having remodeled a few homes and enjoyed a large island or two, I can say with certainty that an island is a must have for a kitchen large enough to support it. It seems that people are trading the large island made of cabinetry for a large table instead. One that functions like an island, providing extra prep space, but also having chairs all the way around.
Sarah Prater
Prater Design + Dwell
R+K Real Estate Solutions
Hey everyone! It's remodel season, and I'm here to give a quick rundown of three long standing trends that the design world is saying we will see changing in the coming years.

1. OPEN CONCEPT LIVING
Younger generations are turning away from open concept living and choosing to add in walls/dividers to create more private spaces. The vast open areas are not cozy and inviting. They also create odd placements of furniture and fewer walls to display art. Full and partial walls, built-in bookshelves, artsy dividers, etc are all being used to create more intimate spaces.
Younger generations are turning away from open concept living and choosing to add in walls/dividers to create more private spaces. The vast open areas are not cozy and inviting. They also create odd placements of furniture and fewer walls to display art. Full and partial walls, built-in bookshelves, artsy dividers, etc are all being used to create more intimate spaces.

2. LOW CEILINGS
Let's be real...life in general is more expensive than ever! Our home's heating and cooling bills are no exception, and having lower ceilings in your home keeps you feeling comfortable longer, without your hvac working overtime. I know, I know....vaulted ceilings are LOVELY and they do make your home feel larger and more grand. They also allow all your warm and cool air to disappear.

3. REPLACING KITCHEN ISLANDS WITH LARGE TABLES
Yes, you read that right. Having remodeled a few homes and enjoyed a large island or two, I can say with certainty that an island is a must have for a kitchen large enough to support it. It seems that people are trading the large island made of cabinetry for a large table instead. One that functions like an island, providing extra prep space, but also having chairs all the way around.
A trend is a trend, and though some do make the "Classic List", many just have their day and disappear. So, let me hear your thoughts on these three trends in the comments!

Sarah Prater
Prater Design + Dwell
R+K Real Estate Solutions
Lawrence Market Update March 2025