It’s February. Almost March, actually. How are you doing with your New Year’s Resolutions?

Many of us have decided to improve our bodies, our relationships, and our finances. But what about the spaces where we spend so much of our time?

Does looking around your home makes you feel relaxed, energized, centered and positive? If not, it’s time for a change.

Sometimes all it takes is hopping on the bandwagon. Finding an interior design trend you like and using it in your home can help rekindle your love for your home.

Not sure what’s trendy this year? That’s where I can help. Here are 5 interior design trends 2014:

Blues

Indigo, navy and turquoise are coming on strong. There is a lot of variety to choose from depending on the look you want.

Brighter blues are fresh, fun and youthful. Darker shades are replacing charcoal and chocolate to add elegance.

blue interior

(Source: Mosaik Design & Remodeling)

blue kitchen

(Source: Colours of Design)

kitchen with dark blue cabinets

(Source: Pinterest)

Not ready to commit to a blue room? Throw pillows, vases, and other accents in your chosen color are a way to test a bold new shade.

Drama and Glamour

The lavish elements of 1920’s decor have seeped into modern design practices. The result is a dazzling modern take on classic glamour.

blue hearth

(Image Source: Mark D. Sikes)

black and gold study

(Image Source: My Luscious Life)

dramatic black and gold sitting room

(Image Source: Vivre Aria Tumblr)

glamorous purple bathroom

(Image Source: Pinterest)

This trend can seem overwhelming. It encompasses a broad range of looks, and room layouts tend to be intricate and maximalist. I’ve found that you can simplify by implementing two of the primary components of this look.

Metallics – A little shimmer of metal goes a long way towards making a room glamorous.

Crystal chandeliers, wall sconces, and cabinet hardware are good places to add a little shimmer. Pearlescent or metallic paint can also provide dazzling results.

Dark Walls – Metallics command attention on their own, but dark walls help them “pop”. This works especially well in dining rooms and powder baths.

Lighter Wood Tones

The popularity of greys and greiges* show no sign of stopping. Colors and textures that pair well with these neutrals are in demand.

When paired with these popular colors, darker rosewood or walnut woods make a room look dreary. Lighter wood tones keep the room looking warm and open while highlighting the cooler greige accents.

As a result, walnut and honey toned woods are sought-after materials. This year, they’ve become a trend in their own right.

* Grey + Beige = Greige. It’s essentially designer speak for taupe.

honey tone wood and black cabinets

(Image Source: Craft1945)

contemporary kitchen

(Image Source: Mosaik Design & Remodeling)

light wood kitchen

(Image Source: The Design Files)

Charging Stations

In the age of mobile, creating space for our devices just makes sense. Every kitchen I design now is mobile friendly.

I either allocate countertop space for devices and provide multiple outlets in a condensed area, or create a drawer for devices with an outlet in the back.

drawer charger

(Image Source: Redbook)

cabinet with plug inside

(Image Source: Dumpaday.com)

Quartz Countertops

mid-century modern kitchen with quartz countertop

(Image Source: Mosaik Design & Remodeling)

white quartz countertop

(Image Source: Decor Pad)

industrial bathroom with quartz countertop

(Image Source: Mosaik Design & Remodeling)

fancy kitchen

(Image Source: Pinterest)

There’s a lot to like about quartz countertops. The material is maintenance free, sustainable, and consistent.

I attribute quartz’s popularity to how well it pairs with popular glass mosaic and natural stone back splashes. While the quartz material is similarly smooth and glassy, it is a solid color for the most part. This keeps kitchens with both from looking too busy.

What trends have you observed are gaining popularity in 2014? Leave a comment.