Exploring Current Home Design Trends In California

In the vibrant Capital Region of California, the pulse of interior design is as dynamic as the seasons. Local designers weigh in on the current trends shaping homes, emphasizing the personal touch that makes each space unique. With design philosophies diversified across clients hailing from as far as New York to Tahoe, one fundamental truth remains: the home is a reflection of individual values.

Interior designer Danica Gadeken, the owner of online resource Nadine Stay, is quick to clarify that trends are not mere fads; they embody popular styles of the moment, some of which may endure through time. “Trends are simply styles that are popular right now. Some trends are timeless, and some trends are fads,” Gadeken explains. She suggests leaning into classic design elements that can be reinterpreted, thus ensuring both modernity and longevity in design choices.

For her, certain features like white kitchens and subway tile may feel exhausted, but they’re bound to resurface eventually as nostalgia revives interest. Aimee Griffin, of Roseville’s own Aimee Griffin Interiors, agrees, conjecturing that classic elements have become too homogenized in today’s social media culture. “White walls, gold accents, black faucets have become so homogenized on social media that it feels cookie-cutter, and I feel it’s on its way out,” Griffin says. She describes this modern farmhouse trend as reminiscent of Tuscany—popular yet potentially unoriginal if overdone.

Designers are aware that when styles resonate with the architecture of a home, their appropriateness remains intact. According to Gadeken, “Any style, when you take it out of its natural environment, will look very trendy and out of place.” This principle drives the personal designs crafted by Miche Victoria of Miche Victoria Interior Design, who insists on integrating the client’s preferences while respecting architectural integrity. Known for her eclectic style, Victoria incorporates trends in moderation, balancing the new with antiques to foster an enduring appeal.

Christin Balzer, the principal designer at Haven Studios, advises caution when borrowing from particular aesthetics like biophilic design, noting that while midcentury modern styles thrive in the Sacramento region—due to the prevalence of built homes in the ’50s and ’60s—it’s vital to consider the functional needs of her clients. “Sometimes, going against them entirely is the best solution for a client’s lifestyle,” Balzer notes.

Kamran Baghestanian, founder of Urban 57 Home Décor & Design, observes a shift toward a cleaner aesthetic while noting consistent demand for elements of the modern farmhouse style, influenced by Sacramento’s agricultural roots. From Baghestanian’s perspective, a transition towards “more clean and modern” designs reflects a broader cultural movement. He points out, “People are prioritizing sustainability and personal expression, comfort, and wellness,” seeking living spaces that exude calmness and a sense of style.

The evolution of design trends is often cyclical, with significant shifts occurring approximately every seven to ten years. Nowadays, designers note that minimalism has been replaced, giving rise to modern maximalism—characterized by bolder colors and warmer wooden tones. “We’re seeing a resurgence in warmer wood tones, like walnut and cherry,” remarks Baghestanian, while Victoria emphasizes the increase in natural materials as people move away from monochrome designs that had characterized the last decade.

Additionally, wellness has influenced design choices, with Balzer noting a rise in demand for “wellness bathrooms” and open-concept spaces that foster social connectivity. A focus on functionality and multi-purpose areas has also heightened, especially as families aim to optimize their home environments.

The Journal of Light Construction (JLC) indicates that in Sacramento, kitchen renovations yield the highest return on investment, closely followed by bathroom upgrades. Steve Casci from Casci DesignWorks emphasizes the significance of quality appliances and cabinetry in kitchen renovations, noting, “The kitchen is the most important room. It’s going to sell your house when you put it on the market.” Casci’s extensive experience informs his designs which prioritize durable brands such as Sub-Zero and Miele to ensure longevity.

Casci also recommends strategic planning for renovations, advocating working in phases to maintain integrity and avoid costly upheaval. Meanwhile, Baghestanian suggests starting a living area refresh with quality rugs over “fast furniture” to cultivate enduring beauty and functionality. Balzer emphasizes diversity to personalize spaces, stating, “I would never recommend furnishing an entire house with products from just one vendor” to avoid the risks of a showroom aesthetic.

It’s crucial for homeowners to consider their foundations—both in terms of architecture and their choices in furnishings. Griffin states, “All of the things that are part of the architectural integrity of the house you have to get right, because you don’t want to change those—ever.” She believes that embracing a timeless personal style is key to enduring appeal, encouraging homeowners to trust their aesthetic instincts.

The misalignment of personal style with fleeting trends can compromise the authenticity of a home. Gadeken aptly concludes, “The mix of styles is what makes a timeless home. Create your own story. It will last longer.” Designers in the Capital Region exemplify this ethos, offering perspectives and insights that empower homeowners to cultivate environments reflective of their true selves and values, harmonizing modernity with tradition.

As the Capital Region continues to evolve, so do the stylistic choices that define its homes. Whether tapping into a trend or seamlessly integrating timeless elements, the goal remains the same: to create spaces that feel integral to the lives they inhabit.

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