Ponte Vedra

The Recorder

Many new trends were reported by experts in the housing industry at the start of 2012 for the custom home and remodeling markets, but which ones are showing up throughout Florida?

According to Michael Lenahen, president of Aurora Custom Homes and Remodeling in Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla., the hottest trends in 2012 are found in new color schemes, outdoor living spaces, "task zones," and advances in technology. "We attend tradeshows and conferences at the beginning of every year to learn about the latest trends coming our way, but its not until mid-year that you begin to see which trends enter our local market," Lenahen said in a news release. "In 2012, we have seen an increased demand for unique outdoor living spaces, the latest high-tech gadgets and a color palette conducive to the Florida lifestyle."

Colors and textures create the mood

Light, bright and airy rooms are the desired look for Florida residents.

Walls in a soft, pale shade of off-white allow for the vibrant colors of artwork, accent pillows, accessories, and the richness of wood flooring and cabinetry to provide the splash of color.

On occasion, the primary wall of a room is highlighted in a rich texture, such as applied stone, ceramic tile or colored fabric to act as a visual backdrop and enhance the feel of the space. This color strategy allows homeowners to control the focus in each room and provides maximum flexibility for making simple, inexpensive changes to the room as needed.

Flexible spaces for entertaining and outdoor living Homes that provide flexible living spaces for dining and entertaining are growing in popularity.

Kitchens, dining areas and family rooms are now an integrated triangle to allow for more socialization and entertaining.

This concept is being expanded to the outdoor living area where entire walls of stacking or folding glass doors are combining the indoor and outdoor living spaces.

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Ponte Vedra