As a homeowner in Colorado, you know that the great outdoors is always just a stone’s throw away. But when it comes to creating a home that truly reflects the state’s natural beauty, it’s not just about having a backyard with a nice view. It’s about designing a space that connects you to the natural world, promotes calm and comfort, and boosts resale value. Designers and contractors agree: biophilic design, nature-inspired elements, and a focus on comfort and community are the top trends that will shape the future of home design in Colorado. But what exactly does this mean, and how can you incorporate these trends into your home to make it stand out in the market? Biophilia: The Connection to Nature
At its core, biophilia is the idea of connecting your home to nature. This can be achieved through simple, practical steps like adding more plants and greenery, letting more natural light in, or using neutral, earthy color palettes and materials. But it’s not just about aesthetics; biophilia is also about promoting a sense of calm and well-being. Low-Maintenance Living
One of the key benefits of biophilic design is the emphasis on low-maintenance living. This means incorporating elements that are easy to care for, like ferns, dried flower arrangements, or landscape-inspired artwork. These additions can bring beauty to your space without requiring intensive upkeep.
- Adding more plants and greenery to your home
- Letting more natural light in to create a sense of calm
- Using neutral, earthy color palettes and materials
- Incorporating low-maintenance elements, like ferns or dried flower arrangements
“Biophilia is not just about adding plants and greenery; it’s about creating a sense of connection to the natural world that resonates with the human spirit.” – Jay Kalinski, Broker/Owner of RE/MAX Elevate and RE/MAX of Boulder
Wood-Infused Warmth
Wood is a timeless material that continues to reign as one of the most effective materials for warming a space. Designers note that warmer oak tones are back on trend, reminiscent of the 1990s but with a contemporary edge. Wood finishes can add a sense of balance and serenity to your space, and they work across modern and traditional design styles.
| Material | Effect |
|---|---|
| Wood | Warming and balancing a space |
| Neutral color palettes | Calming and soothing a space |
| Natural light | Creating a sense of calm and well-being |
Calming Outdoor Retreats
Gone are the days when exceptional indoor features were all you needed to sell a home in Colorado. Today’s buyers crave a connection to nature, and that means showcasing an inviting and functional outdoor space. More than half of home improvement professionals identified outdoor features like peaceful gardens, water elements, fire pits, and cozy seating as must-haves. These spaces offer an essential escape from daily stress and an ideal setting for entertaining. And it’s not just about lounging; homeowners prioritize sustainability, with 36% of pros noting that vegetable gardens, composting setups, and native plantings are popular outdoor design projects.
- Peaceful gardens and water elements
- Fire pits and cozy seating
- Vegetable gardens, composting setups, and native plantings
“Sustainability is a top priority for many homeowners, and it’s not just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a space that reflects our values and promotes a sense of community and connection to nature.” – Jay Kalinski, Broker/Owner of RE/MAX Elevate and RE/MAX of Boulder
As the design trends continue to evolve, one thing remains constant: today’s homebuyers want spaces that nurture a connection to nature, community, and family. By incorporating biophilic principles, natural wood finishes, and tranquil outdoor retreats, you can help your home stand out in today’s market while offering comfort and joy for years to come. Stay up to date with area Real Estate and Home & Garden news information with the latest e-edition version of atHome Colorado online. This article is brought to you by atHome Colorado, your weekly insight into real estate, design, and community trends, published weekly by the advertising and marketing department in the Boulder Daily Camera, Loveland Reporter-Herald, Greeley Tribune, and Longmont Times-Call. Jay Kalinski is the broker/owner of RE/MAX Elevate and RE/MAX of Boulder and is also an experienced Realtor, lawyer, and veteran of the U.S. Air Force. He is a zealous advocate for his clients and is also an avid triathlete, runner, reader, and supporter of Veterans’ causes.
