Schimberg Group
Architecture & Interior Design
1421 5th Street, Unit D
Sarasota, FL 34236
Design Trends Exposed in Competition
Recently, a project completed by our firm, The Schimberg Group, was recognized in a local magazine. We watch less for who won “Home of the Year” awards and more for “what emerging trends are winning” and we watch in coastal areas around the world. Much of what we design is built in a rather unforgiving coastal climate with beating sun, tropical rain and the occasional hurricane force winds. The closer the building site is to the coast, the closer it is to the roughest weather and we are always looking for innovations that artfully combine resistance to these elements with clean, modern design. Here are a few things we are seeing:
- More options for outdoor building materials, furniture and fabric. Architects and interior designers have been blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor rooms for decades but it seems the suppliers in residential furniture and fabric have embraced the idea with a noteworthy increase in options.
- Geometric distinction between landscape and streetscape that is visually appealing, directional and environmentally responsible. Walkways, driveways, and beach paths are punctuated with grass or shell, alternating with concrete, stone or tile. Pervious surfaces reduce run-off and recycle rainwater and if you frequent the tropics during rainy season, this is essential.
- Resort-scale “poolscaping.” One example is a sun shelf pool that appears to float on a carpet of grass, free from a traditional raised edge, hedge or boundary of any sort. Additionally, new elements are adding interest and expanding use such as fire pits and fixed lounge areas on solid surfaces surrounded by water. This ‘poolscaping’ is expanding indoor-outdoor entertaining areas and giving private residences a resort vibe.
- More height, concrete and steel. Changes in building codes and flood insurance premiums threaten even the most expansive budgets and architects are wisely designing to mitigate risk.
It is impossible to keep abreast of all the new ideas and materials available to architects and designers but award publications in print and online can be a quick way to spot the top line trends in a particular genre or specific climate.
Silver Award for “Best Renovation/Remodel”
Gold Award for “Best Bathroom”
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