5 Home Renovation Trends That Will Be Huge in 2018

Hear that? That’s the sound of folks across the country chanting “save the walls!” After an HGTV-fueled open concept revolution over the past decade, in 2018 we can expect to see at least a partial return to more traditional layouts. Nantucket-based contractor Edward O’Brien tells us the pendulum is indeed swinging back in favor of dividing walls, with new clients requesting formal dining rooms away from the kitchen prep. 

_{Above, a dreamy formal dining room by Marie Flanigan Interiors affords the opportunity to go bold with wallpaper.}

We’ve been spotting these gorgeous tiles across the projects of our favorite designers for months now—but only just learned what to call them. Zellige (ze-lih-guh) tiles are basically the Moroccan, terra-cotta version of subway tiles. Earthy, organic and perfectly imperfect, they’re super in line with the hygge and Wabi Sabi aesthetics that are all the rage right now.

_{Above, a neutral, globally inspired bathroom outfitted in Cle Zellige tiles.}

Black, of course, never goes out of style. But over the past year, it’s been enjoying an undeniable takeover in hardware, appliances, you name it. The latest evolution: All black kitchens (think black uppers, lowers and backsplashes). Moody? Yes. Edgy and dramatic? You betcha.

_{Above, a sleek, matte black kitchen at the Consort Design-outfitted Revolve Social Club Showroom.}

A natural extension of the modern farmhouse trend, rustic wood elements will take things one step further in the new year—infusing homes with a little extra history and character. Think: Plastering around an original wood timber, leaving chunks of shiplap exposed or bringing oversize posts and beams into a modern setting.

_{Above, a reclaimed wood accent wall adds warm texture to a bedroom in the Jersey Ice Cream Co.-designed Lokal Hotel.}

On the ups for years now, these pond/pool hybrids are filled with plant life and monitored with low-fuss, highly sophisticated filtration systems. Inexpensive and eco-friendly, they perfectly balance the romantic, naturalist garden trend with the ease of modern luxury. Chlorine? So passé, guys.

_{Above, an enchanting natural swimming pool designed by Woodhouse Natural Pools.}