Trends From the Show That Never Was

Although the virtual platform for the International Builders’ Show (IBSx) went through some hiccups, the week of February 8th still presented an opportunity for editors like me to talk to those scheduled to exhibit, and learn about the latest door and window trends. Some trends still hang strong after several years, such as modern designs, outdoor living, and black being the hot color. But a new design style has emerged with force: the mixing and matching of colors and styles, as homeowners continue to yearn to make their style mark on homes.

Although it’s been the rage for at least ten years, the folks at Royal Building Products say outdoor living has ramped up significantly. This is not a surprise, as we all spend most of our time at home—thank you COVID-19.

“Homeowners want a seamless entrance from the interior to the exterior,” says Kriss Swint, director of marketing communications for Royal Building Products.

“People are really looking at the back of the home and connecting their indoor and outdoor spaces,” says Brad Loveless, marketing and product development manager for Simpson Door Company.

And although modern designs and contemporary looks are also here to stay, consumers are looking to farmhouse designs which continue to gain in popularity, according to Swint. The folks at Fypon also are seeing the modern farmhouse aesthetic being used widely.

An emerging design that is perhaps newer to the scene is the mixing of materials, textures and colors, for example black trim and white windows.

“Homeowners are looking to differentiate their homes and colors [and materials] is a way to do that,” says Swint. “The rule of thumb is to use two to three materials or colors on the exterior whether it’s doors, the trim, etc.,” says Swint. “We are seeing a lot more homeowners mixing materials.”

It’s something the specialists at Therma-Tru are tracking as well. “We are seeing the home becoming more refined, and using a mix of materials such as stone and brick,” says Curt Daniel, senior product manager. And again, the popular black option is used these days in everything from grids between the glass to various types of trim.

“The synergy between the doors and windows really matters,” he says. To that end, the company is using its Virtual Experience as a way to show its customers all the options available in a home through photos and more.

Personally speaking, I can’t wait until the day I can get back to IBS and actually see things in person, but until then I have to say all of us have done an amazing job adapting to what has been thrown at us.

Tara Taffera is the publisher of [DWM] magazine.
ttaffera@glass.com

To view the laid-in version of this article in our digital edition, CLICK HERE.