white vanity and a large tub

Consumer Information

Newest Items In Kitchen And Bath Design

Home is about comfort, about reflecting yourself through the design choices you make, and while we don’t recommend changing it up every other month, there are times when you need to hit the refresh button. Revisiting your space periodically can also significantly enhance the home’s atmosphere. Many designers recommend redecorating every four to five years for several reasons, including:

  • Avoid a dated room
  • Shift in function
  • Inventory what you have

Sometimes, specific areas of home decor are influenced by trends that are no longer in style, which can make the space feel dated or even uninviting. Rooms also serve a specific purpose, and those can change over time. If your children are no longer living with you, their bedroom can be transformed into a craft room or even a guest suite. Some new things are making their way onto potential homebuyers’ lists. We have done a little homework for you and discovered some of the top new items being used in home design.

Undercounter Wine Refrigerators

Wine is a classic beverage and is enjoyed by many. More and more homeowners are choosing to have a wine cellar or room where they can enjoy a glass before bed or with friends in the evening. This shift has prompted designers to become more creative in incorporating it into their designs. For some, the option to build a new dedicated space is not possible, which has led to the popularity of under-counter wine refrigerators. A major benefit of choosing this option is that it allows you to store your wine safely and securely, ensuring it maintains the right temperature and optimal light exposure. It also means it is readily available in an area where most of the family gathers, like the kitchen. You can choose to have it placed in a beverage center, which takes up less room but provides an additional storage area for wine glasses, too. Similar in size to a dishwasher, this appliance won’t take up much room, so you can enjoy a glass at any time of day or night.

bathroom vanity with tile walls and floors

Farmhouse Style Vanities

The farmhouse style has remained popular because it is warm, inviting, and welcoming, making you feel like you can come as you are whenever you like. It truly creates a homey atmosphere for everyone, guests and family alike. While it has been used by many designers, including famous TV personalities, as a kitchen style, it has begun to spread into other areas of the home, including the bathroom. Your vanity is the main focal point of the design and tends to set the space’s tone and theme. As the farmhouse style is also practical and functional, it is a perfect fit for the bathroom. Some of the characteristics of the farmhouse look are:

  • Classic wood material
  • Metal accents
  • Large sinks

It is a classic look that harkens back to a bygone era that many would like to recapture. Including this style in your bathroom creates a calm environment for everyone.

Lighting

Sometimes, all you need in your home is some new light, and new light fixtures can provide it. Good lighting is an important part of designing a new space and can be accomplished through several means, such as:

  • Accent lighting
  • Light fixtures
  • Task lighting

By sourcing different lighting options, you can eliminate or at least minimize the shadows in a room. Be sure to keep the function of each area in mind, as it affects lighting decisions. Under cabinet lighting is important in the kitchen; table and floor lamps help in the living room and bedrooms. Some of the newest lighting trends for 2022 include:

  • Large light fixtures
  • Unique shapes
  • Soft lighting options
  • Organic feels like woven shades

Lighting is also important as we age. Forcing our eyes to read or do tasks in a poorly lit home area can cause unnecessary strain. This is not a huge investment compared to a renovation, but it can yield multiple benefits. Light influences our mood as well. A well-lit room can make you feel more relaxed and comfortable. Read a few more things about the newest lighting trends for 2022 in this article from The Spruce.

Backsplash

Backsplash is a great way to add color, texture, and unique patterns to your kitchen. It also plays an essential role in protecting your kitchen wall from stains and making cleanup a breeze. There are a great many choices available, like simple, clean white to fun patterns that add visual interest to the kitchen. Walker Zanger is one of the dealers featured in our Showroom, and they recently launched a curated line of backsplash tiles. Twelve new natural stone mosaics were presented in this line, and they are stunning. This company toured the world to uncover mosaic tiles that not only had style but also gave great value. These tiles are cut with precision and thoughtfully designed to provide clients with a collection that offers multiple design options and patterns to transform their space from drab to fab in a moment. They have bold colors such as Ebony clouds, which is a stunning contrast of black and white. Calypso is a great choice for those who enjoy a more traditional style. Take a peek at this elegant collection from Walker Zanger to see all of the options.

Hardware

This is one of the best options for those interested in doing a small revamping of their space but not ready for a full renovation. Not only is it beautiful, but hardware is one of the most functional components. It protects the cabinets from the natural oils in our hands and the dirt we carry, and it allows us to easily open and close doors and drawers while we are prepping for dinner in the kitchen. It also makes a visual statement when choosing ones that have sharp contrast, such as black matte against white cabinets. From bathroom cabinets to even the desk in your home office, hardware can make a big difference. One new trend surfacing is building it directly into the cabinet door, such as with notched pulls. This is a beautiful option for those who enjoy the more minimalist style.

What’s On Your List?

If you are ready to redecorate your home and need some inspiration, just come visit our showroom located in the charming city of Shelby, NC. We have multiple displays of hardware, vanities, and backsplash tile. There is nothing better than holding your choices in your hands and examining them thoroughly. Make plans to visit us and find the refreshment your home needs.

Discover what to tackle first when you’re moving into a fixer-upper — from structural fixes to kitchens — with a timeline built around your move.

At Walker Woodworking, we specialize in creating custom cabinetry solutions that blend beauty with purpose. If you’re planning a new build or remodel, here are some of the top cabinet features homeowners love right now, and why they make such a difference.

Hidden storage helps you organize your space while keeping it clean and functional. You might think this means losing comfort. But you can keep your lifestyle intact with smart choices. The key is to use the space that already exists more effectively.

When it comes to designing custom cabinetry, every detail matters—from wood species and finishes to hardware and layout. One of the most important style decisions you’ll make early in the process is choosing between inset and overlay cabinets. While this choice may seem subtle at first glance, it significantly impacts the overall look, feel, and cost of your space.