Our Design Edit

beautiful interior design accomplished with this spa shower with large window

9 Elements Interior Designers Swoon Over

Design, Design Trends

Feb 27, 2024

Our design team has identified 9 elements that interior designers highly appreciate. These elements have consistently appeared in numerous design projects, and we are thrilled to share insights on what to consider for your upcoming interior design renovation.Upgrade your home renovation with design elements that combine aesthetic sophistication, ambience, and functional elegance.

Our interior design studio typically avoids transient trends, yet we recognize the significant influence that certain design movements may have on home design. The below collection offers a thoughtful blend of style and practicality, aiming for a refined yet impactful transformation. For a consultation on incorporating these leading-edge design concepts into your home project, please contact our team. You can use our contact form or click on the picture directly below to schedule a call with the owner of our interior design studio.

1. Sunken Bathtubs

Are you considering to remodel your bathroom and looking for a refreshing and luxurious upgrade? One excellent feature to consider might be a sunken bathtub. After all, a bathroom renovation not only breaths some new life into your home but can also add functional as well as as real estate value. If you have a mid-century modern home, it might even work particularly well with the overall architectural style. This design feature also lends itself extremely well to Asian inspired homes and where there’s a strong influence from the Japandi style.

A bathtub sunken into the floor creates a visually striking focal point and offers a spa-like experience for relaxation. Its unique design adds sophistication, transforming your bathroom into a retreat to unwind and rejuvenate. One of the main benefits of incorporating a sunken tub in your bathroom remodel is the added dimension it brings to the space. By creating a focal point lower than the floor level, a sunken tub adds depth and visual interest to an otherwise flat room. This design element also creates the illusion of more space, making even small bathrooms feel larger and more open.

Interior architecture by andré fu

bathroom design + INTERIOR design by emerick architects

BATHROOM design TORRES Y CAMPOS

In addition to its aesthetic impact, a well chosen bathtub can transform your bathroom design into a residential spa and create a serene retreat right in your home.

A sunken bathtub offers practical advantages such as low height, making it easily accessible for people of all ages and abilities. A sunken bathtub should be well positioned in a corner or alcove in order to be a safe design feature. Steps can provide a great accessible option but don’t forget to include a handrail for safety. It certainly reminds us of an outdoor hot tub or jacuzzi.

The incorporation of modern fixtures and materials during the home remodel ensures that your bathroom becomes a stylish and comfortable haven. Overall, remodeling your bathroom with a sunken bathtub is a thoughtful investment that not only elevates your daily routine but also adds a touch of luxury to your home.

What makes sunken bathtub truly exceptional is its thoughtful integration with the overall bathroom design. Moreover, positioned strategically beneath a skylight or picture window, natural light pours in, emphasizing the aspect of relaxation. It’s the perfect combo if your interior design intention is focused on well-being and a connection to nature. For those of us who take baths at night or in the winter when the dark sets in early during the day, a skylight becomes an integral part of the design, allowing the celestial glow to dance upon the surface of the water, enhancing the immersive and serene experience.


2. Wood Handles

Wood handles can be an integral part of an interior design concept, contributing both functionally and aesthetically to various components within a space. The selection of cabinetry wood, including options like white oak, walnut, maple, cherry, and beech, offer a diverse range of materials, each with its own distinctive characteristics. The type of wood chosen significantly influences the overall aesthetic and style of the interior; the same is true for for the base material itself (the custom cabinet the handle sits in).

In the case of a cabinet wood handle matching the wood of the partnering cabinet, its most notable aspect lies in their ability to retain a natural and warm ambiance to interior spaces. Whether incorporated into rustic, traditional, modern, or contemporary designs, the natural grains and textures of wood add depth and visual interest to cabinets, doors, and furniture. The versatility of wood handles allows them to seamlessly integrate into diverse design themes and color schemes. Below is a prime example of adding a whimsical touch to your otherwise very boxy cabinetry.

The wall embraces the integration of wood cabinets, while a luxurious marble countertop adorns the surface. The shelves are beautifully styled, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal.

Customization Is Key In Your Interior Design

… enabling interior designers to create different shapes, sizes, and designs to align with the overall design vision. The durability of high-quality wood handles ensures they can withstand daily wear and tear, while proper maintenance, such as cleaning and polishing, helps preserve the wood’s integrity for a longer lifespan.

Custom living room wood cabinets with custom wood handles.

INTERIOR design by Linda Boronk

With a timeless quality, wood handles possess enduring appeal that transcends changing design trends, making them a favorite among interior designers. Their classic nature and ability to add a touch of sophistication ensure they remain a reliable choice for interior design solutions that stand the test of time. By integrating these elements, an interior designer can significantly enrich the overall aesthetic of a space, marrying functionality with timeless beauty.

Dining room design and KITCHEN design

by the best NYC interior designer Studio Giancarlo Valle 

INTERIOR designER kennedy nolan


3. More Lamps and Flush mounts, Less Recessed Lighting

Table lamps are set to illuminate our spaces like never before. As interior designers, we have a simple yet transformative tip: “Spot an unadorned surface in your space? Adorn it with a lamp.” In general, we want to caution against the sole reliance on harsh overhead lighting, which can leave yourself and your guests reaching for sunglasses indoors – just kidding. Instead, our interior design studio champions the warm, inviting glow of lamp in the form of a pendant, chandelier, flush-mounted ceiling light or table lamp. The light they cast creates a cozy ambiance in your home.

On the topic of overhead lighting, our interior design studio is advocating for a shift away from recessed lighting in both renovations and new constructions. You may have also heard other interior designers in our industry criticize recessed lighting for its industrial impact on ceilings and the unflattering shadows it casts. We suggest embracing alternatives that blend aesthetics with functionality. She recommends discreet flushmounts as perfect for kitchens, mudrooms, hallways, and bathrooms, enhancing these spaces without the harshness of recessed lighting. Additionally, we encourage exploring decorative options like chandeliers, floor lamps, sconces, pendants, and, indeed, the versatile table lamp, to bring both style and light into our homes.

INTERIOR design by Collective Studio and photography by Niamh Barry


4. The Renaissance of Daybeds

In 2024, daybeds are making a strong comeback in the world of interior design. Moreover, these versatile pieces redefine comfort and adaptability, making them ideal focal points in multifunctional living spaces. Daybeds seamlessly blend with diverse aesthetics, making them a versatile addition to any decor style. Furthermore, their growing popularity in contemporary interior design can be attributed to several factors, making day beds a sought-after choice.

Daybeds are not just stylish, they’re also a versatile solution for any space in your home. Whether it’s your cozy living room, spacious great room, or even bedrooms, day beds effortlessly blend in, adding elegance and functionality. Use them as a cozy spot to relax during the day or as an extra sleeping arrangement for guests at night. Embrace the flexibility and style that day beds bring to your home decor!

Custom made Day bed , dark walnut finish and wood carving for interesting look and feel. upholstered in a natural linen.

Daybed designed by Kaare Klint

In guest rooms or home offices, day beds play a pivotal role in providing a stylish and comfortable space for both seating and sleeping, making them an ideal choice for accommodating guests. Their seamless integration with other furniture pieces fosters a cohesive and well-balanced interior design. Quality mattresses enhance comfort, offering a pleasant experience for lounging or sleeping. Child-friendly day beds are popular in kids’ rooms, serving as a versatile spot for reading, playing, or napping.

Durability and maintenance are key when choosing a daybed, highlighting the need for materials that are attractive and durable. Daybeds are versatile in interior design, offering space efficiency and design variety for well-designed living spaces.


5. Marble Furniture Pieces

Observe the seamless integration of marble with various design elements…..

At our interior design studio, we love the current trend of incorporating stone or marble furniture and accessories in home decor. Marble has been a symbol of luxury and sophistication for centuries. Its classic, timeless appeal ensures that your home will remain stylish for years to come. Whether you choose a Carrara, Calacatta, or Statuario marble, the beauty and elegance they bring are enduring and ageless

Incorporating marble into our kitchen and bathroom renovations is a favorite, and the growing use of marble brings us much joy! You can begin with modest additions, like marble coasters, accents, or furniture; these surprising materials can genuinely inject personality into your living space. Marble is not just about aesthetics; it’s a durable and long-lasting material. When properly cared for, marble can withstand the test of time, maintaining its beauty for generations. While it may require occasional maintenance, the investment is well worth it for the timeless beauty it adds to your home.

Luxury interior design living room; square marble coffee table. 
drink table, white boucle Soriana sofa  with round velvet accent pillows

Trendy or not, you can’t go wrong with a Cassina Soriana Sofa by Afra & Tobia Scarpa. Both its design and level of comfort are impeccable.

INTERIOR DESIGN TARA KANTOR INTERIORS

One of the most interesting features of marble is its natural veining and patterns. No two pieces are exactly alike, making each installation a unique work of art.

The organic beauty of marble brings a touch of nature indoors, creating a sense of uniqueness and character in your home. Our experience as interior designers, has shown us that there is no substitute for natural imperfections of marble and other stones.

Marble Living Room Side Table, Decorative Table Lamp . 
Wood organic coffee table

INTERIOR DESIGN STUDIO CHILD STUDIO

luxury marble toilet papaer holder -bathroom accessory

PRODUCT BY CHILD STUDIO


6. Small Scale Ceramic Tiles

In recent months, we’ve seen that ceramic square tiles have emerged as a prominent interior design trend, gaining popularity for several compelling reasons. Firstly, the clean lines and geometric simplicity of square tiles contribute to a contemporary visual that aligns with modern design preferences. Moreover, the adaptability of ceramic square tiles allows for diverse applications, making them appropriate for various spaces, from kitchens and bathrooms to living areas.

bathroom interior design Frame Works

interior design team rogan nash architects

Commercial project color square tile to create a design and or pattern

material selection studiomodijefsky

The tactile appeal and visual interest created by the grid-like patterns formed by square tiles have captured the attention of designers and homeowners alike.

This trend offers a timeless yet fresh look, providing a canvas for creativity in mixing and matching colors to suit different styles.

Ceramic square tiles are celebrated for their durability and ease of maintenance, making them a practical choice for high-traffic areas.

With an array of colors, finishes, and sizes available, these tiles offer endless possibilities for customization, allowing individuals to express their unique design preferences.

Utilize a blend of colorful tiles to craft a captivating and vibrant design, adding a l touch to your commercial or residential project.


7. Glass Blocks

Glass blocks serve as a versatile element, allowing natural light to filter through while maintaining privacy. The translucent quality of the blocks creates a play of light and shadow, adding depth and visual interest to any room. This design choice not only enhances the overall ambiance but also imparts a sense of openness and spaciousness.

Beyond their aesthetic allure, glass blocks contribute to energy efficiency by maximizing natural light, reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day. This eco-friendly aspect aligns with the growing emphasis on sustainable design practices, making glass blocks a thoughtful choice for the environmentally-conscious homeowner.

The modular and customizable nature of glass block walls provides a dynamic design element. Whether used as a full partition or in conjunction with other materials, they offer a unique and contemporary look that complements various interior styles.

Glass Block Wall with Steel Frames -  dividing the room to create two spaces

interior design photo by HABIT

Glass Block wall, surrounded by natural design elements such like brick ceiling and plaster walls

interior DESIGN STUDIO contekst


8. Large Grout Lines

Thick grout lines in interior design have become a trendy and visually striking addition to different spaces. Traditionally, grout lines have been minimal and unnoticeable., serving primarily as a practical element in tile installations. However, this trend represents a departure from this convention, bringing a bold and intentional design choice to the forefront.

Emphasis on Geometry and Pattern:

Large grout lines create a bold and impactful geometric statement. When tiles are spaced with wider grout lines, the geometric pattern becomes more pronounced and visually striking. This boldness can be particularly effective in contemporary and modern designs, where clean lines and geometric shapes are celebrated.

Larger grout lines create spacing between tiles, setting up visual rhythm and defining the pattern’s scale. This is important in larger spaces to balance tile size and avoid overwhelming the room.

Dynamic Visual Effects:

The intentional use of large grout lines allows for the creation of dynamic and eye-catching visual effects. The contrast between the tiles and the bold grout lines creates a sense of depth and dimension.

This approach turns the grout lines into an necessary part of the overall design, contributing to a more cohesive and visually impactful composition.

Using large grout lines in interior design breaks from tradition, making a bold design choice. It adds versatility, emphasizes geometry and pattern, and creates dynamic visual effects, enhancing the overall design aesthetic of a space.

Large Grout Lines in Floor Tile. Grout Lines is a great way to add interest into the space

interior DESIGN studio studio contekst


9. Indoor Plants Everywhere

Indoor plants are a lasting interior design trend, making living spaces vibrant. This green revolution is fueled by aesthetics, environment, and psychology, contributing to the popularity of indoor plant incorporation.

The evolution of indoor plants as an interior design trend is a result of their versatile benefits. Moreover, they enhance aesthetics, promote well-being, and contribute to air quality. As a design staple, indoor plants reflect the evolving preferences of individuals seeking a harmonious and nature-inspired living space.

California Style Interior Design , Custom Living Room Furniture

living room interior design Justin chung

Indoor plants’ popularity in interior design comes from biophilic design, connecting people with nature and fulfilling our need for a natural connection.

This philosophy acknowledges nature’s positive impact on well-being and productivity. Indoor plants, beyond aesthetics, contribute to overall well-being by reducing stress, improving air quality, and enhancing concentration. Growing awareness of wellness benefits drives demand for indoor plants in interior design.

Kitchen with Indoor Plants

kitchen design eric petschek

interior DESIGN Jill Shadek Design


To conclude our journal entry on …..

9 Essential Design Details we think you need in your Next interior Design Project….

The integration of these nine essential design details promises to transform your interior space into a harmonious blend of aesthetics and functionality. Strategically placed plants and modern glass blocks create a cohesive and personalized living environment. Large grout lines, day beds, sunken tubs, square ceramic tiles, and other interior design features ensure a stunning home design that we wouldn’t classify as “trendy” but rather interesting and unique.

This holistic approach, where form and function merge effortlessly invites an engaging atmosphere, leaving a lasting impression of contemporary vision. Our interior design studio always aims to be extremely thoughtful in all of our design choices. Creating a home that is both a reflection of what the clients wants and yet embodies our unique point of view, is the best outcome for both. After all, that’s what home owners hire us for: Haven Studios’ unique interior design expertise, material knowledge, and space planning capacity.

If you’d like to read more about interior design trends, kitchen design, and the process of home remodeling and kitchen remodels, we have a few other suggestions for you that might offer guidance. To connect with us to discuss your kitchen renovation or other interior design project in the Sacramento Area and beyond, you can either schedule a call or complete our contact form if you prefer email as your first step to a more beautiful home.


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living room in modern Mediterranean home - El Dorado Hills - Sacramento - Granite Bay - interior design firm that specializes in home remodel and kitchen design

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Wondering where to find our interior design studio? Below you’ll find our office location in Downtown Sacramento and San Francisco.

We mostly serve local areas around our main office in Sacramento. This includes Granite Bay, El Dorado Hills, Arden-Arcade, Fair Oaks, and Carmichael. You can see from our portfolio that we also serve clients in the San Francisco Bay Area from our satellite office in Pacific Heights, as well as clients in Los Angeles and Truckee. If your home or project site is located somewhere else in the US, please don’t hesitate to connect – we’re always open to collaborate on inspired interiors in other places.

As interior designers, we don’t just focus on functionality and luxurious aesthetics. More often than not, we – and our clients – want to embark on unique design elements. From sunken bathtubs to the resurgence of daybeds and the timeless appeal of marble, these elements shape unique, elegant spaces. Ceramic square tiles and glass blocks accentuate modern designs, while custom wood handles and indoor plants inject a whimsical character to our interiors. Embrace these interior design trends for an inspiring, harmonious home.

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