Paint, Floors, and Lighting Trends

Benjamin Moore & Co.

Paint colors, flooring and lighting can make or break an ocean home, and a slew of exciting new products are expected to trend upwards in the coming year.

Andrea Magno, Color and Design Store manager at leading paint company Benjamin Moore & Co., says there will be a shift in 2015 from humdrum neutrals to a subtle use of color.

“Our 2014 Color of the Year, for instance, is Breath of Fresh Air 806, a soft fresh blue, and at the darker end of the spectrum is Van Deusen Blue HC-156, a rich navy,” she says. “Both colors can be used as the backdrop for a room complementing a range of fabrics, furnishings and accessories.”

The company has also debuted Aura Bath and Spa, intended for wet, humid environments like bathrooms. “One of the great aspects of this product is that it is available only in a matte finish which allows for a low-sheen look ideal for bathrooms,” she adds. “Often a lower sheen is desired to complement stone and tile, and now it’s a possibility with optimal performance and durability, without the shine.” benjaminmoore.com

Floor Coverings International

New flooring options are also trending, according to Samantha Amato, a representative for Floor Coverings International, including low-VOC carpeting (less off-gas emissions), ceramic tiles that resemble natural wood, and hardwood floors arranged in a herringbone or chevron pattern.

“Engineered wood flooring, comprised of wood layers stacked cross-grain and bonded with heat pressure, is the new go-to,” she adds. “It looks exactly like hardwood and is great for people with children or pets. “It’s way more durable, doesn’t buckle, and can resist humidity. It also comes in every color from gray to hickory, cherry and walnut, and is less money than traditional hardwood floors.” floorcoveringsinternational.com

Bevolo Gas & Electric Lights

The owner of New Orleans-based Bevolo Gas & Electric Lights believes portable lanterns, LED and natural gas (or propane) fixtures will trend upwards next year.

“Portable lanterns are stylish enough to be used as centerpieces for outdoor kitchen tables, but can also be moved to become pathway lights, guiding a party at night to the water or beach,” says Drew Bevolo, whose company recently launched the Pool House series, a line of portable copper lanterns.

He also notes that LED (with a 20-year lifespan) and natural gas and propane lighting are the next big things. “Our patented natural gas burner is the world’s most efficient, and these burners have a projected life of 50 years,” he adds.

“With natural gas not only abundant and produced in North America, the actual cost is at an all-time low. Lighting is the jewelry on your home. We want it to be right, because we want it to be there as long as the house is.” bevolo.com