Amy Alexander is the owner of Ask Amy Interior Design, and she consults with us here at Evans Coghill on upcoming and current trends in the design world. She also assists our new homebuyers in finding the right interior features to match their personal style.

Interior design trend watching is a big part of Amy’s job, whether she’s designing one room or an entire house. We asked her to give us some insight into the current trends she’s seeing.

ECH: Amy, what interior color trends are hot right now?

AMY: Historically, the interior colors most often used by homeowners have been in the white, beige, and gray scheme. But recently, interior color trends have begun moving away from this to brighter, more vibrant colors.

I try to balance the new color trends with the more traditional neutrals when working with clients, suggesting a bold color like sapphire with gold accents, to keep a neutral scheme fresh and updated. The most important thing is for the room to be comfortably balanced between warm and cool tones.

What overall design trends are most popular among buyers?

Along with the move toward bolder colors, I am seeing design shifts into mid-century modern, reclaimed industrial, and urban farmhouse. Homeowners are increasingly incorporating more architectural details like coffered ceilings, built-ins, and special wall panel treatments – which Evans Coghill is so noted for! It’s great that you offer several styles that can reflect anything from Craftsman all the way to Low Country coastal. It gives me plenty of range to help your homeowners design homes that really fit their personal style.

Which areas of the home are buyers adding upgrades or luxury features to?

While not necessarily a “room”, outdoor living spaces are hugely popular right now. Backyards have become the entertainment center of the home, and homeowners want to add porches, patios with outdoor fireplaces, and water features. Adding stone detail to the front exterior of a house is still a very popular upgrade. Paired with gas lanterns, you have classic elegance.

I always tell the homeowners that lighting is a great way to upgrade because you get more” bang for your buck”. Most light fixtures are inexpensive compared to other upgrades and make a dramatic statement if chosen properly.

Here are Amy’s tips for enhancing your design experience at Evans Coghill:

• Come in with an overall concept of what you would like to see for your home. Do some research for your wish list, including photos of items or notes on other homes you have seen in neighborhood or on the ECH website.