Door Design Trends Over the Last 60 Years [Infographic]
When you think about door designs over the last six decades, it's fun to know what types of door design trends are part of the past. The last 60 years have given us a lot of trends we love, and some trends to avoid. Whether you are looking for a new exterior door to make your entrance amazing, or you need new interior doors throughout your first floor, it’s best to learn from the design trends of the past and see what styles work best for you.
Door Trends In the 1960s
When RWC Windows, Doors & More first opened, many front doors had a row of small windows, either vertical or horizontal. This allowed a door to bring in light while still being closed. Many of the windows were frosted glass so that you couldn't see into the home easily.
Dark Wood Interiors of the 1970s
Orange shag rugs and bold patterned wallpaper took over homes in the 1970s, and along came the dark wood interior doors in many homes. Hollowed doors became popular, as they were a cheaper alternative to solid wood. This made it easy for people to decorate using wood doors without having to spend a lot of money.
Doors In the 1980s
The 1980s saw more geometrical designs in home decor, in both exterior and interior doors. The dark wood interiors were replaced with doors made of mostly glass, giving the home a lighter, more open look. French doors with windows became increasingly popular and were used to divide spaces, but allowed for a clear view in between rooms.
Front Doors of the 1990s
The art of Zen decorating was popular in the 1990s, and this carried through to the exterior of homes. Clean lines and Japanese-inspired screen doors were seen throughout homes, and the use of blonde wood rose. The minimalist look of the 1990s was a far cry from the chaos created in homes of the 1970s. Gone was the shag rug, replaced by solid wood floors or ceramic tile. This ushered in an era of clean, modern-looking doors and windows.
Doors for the Next Century
Remember shabby chic decor? An old door could be used, battered and worn, and mixed with an elegant piece of furniture to make a statement? Doors from 2000 may have looked like they came from reclaimed wood, and this was always a possibility. No matter what style you liked to decorate, you could use old pieces you found on the side of the road, dress it up, and call it done. With larger and more expensive new homes, entryways also became even more impressive.
Current 2019 Decorating Trends
Front doors are becoming bold again, in bright colors and in sizes larger than normal. Hardware makes a big difference with current door trends, such as using metallic accents mixed with wooden doors. Technology is also a big decorating trend, as smart locks and video doorbells become popular. The ability to control your home from your smartphone is integrated in decor throughout the home.
Door trends have changed over the years, to include:
- dark wood of the 1970s
- clean lines from the 1990s
- bold and bright entryways
- the use of smart technology
To learn more about current interior design trends and tips for 2019 decorating, it's time to contact RWC Windows, Doors & More and see how we can help you. If you live in West Caldwell, NJ and the surrounding area, contact us today at 973-435-4230 and ask about home decor 2019.
4 Design Ideas for a Trendy and Timeless Bathroom Remodel
A revamped bathroom can recoup you as much as 60 percent in home value, which makes the bathroom a logical room to remodel. However, modern bathroom remodeling projects, even for a tiny bathroom, can involve a lot of work. From replacing tile and updating fixtures, remodeling is something that you will want to do once and enjoy for as long as possible. There are ample timeless bathroom remodel ideas to pick from that will remain trendy for the long term. Your overall goal should be a timeless bathroom design that ensures your bathroom remains classy and glamorous for years to come. Here are a few pointers to help you along the way.
Pick Neutral Tile
Tile is a common staple in a classic bathroom design because it is resilient and long-lasting. However, tile can also look dated quickly if you are not careful about what tile you pick. Instead of opting for something colorful, highly patterned, or artistic, stick with timeless bathroom tile ideas and choices that are more neutral in tone and design. Neutral tile will flow well with other traditional ideas, and allow you to change the style of your master bathroom over time.
Going Bold with Paint Is Okay
If you’re looking for bathroom remodel ideas on a budget, painting is the way to go. Therefore, if you love the idea of a stark black bathroom wall or prefer a trendy, bold and vibrant shade, you have the flexibility to change it up. By keeping your tile and fixtures neutral, your bathroom will match any shade you decide on.
Keep Fixtures Traditional
Replacing bathroom fixtures is one of the biggest tasks involved in a traditional bathroom remodel. Not to mention one of the more expensive aspects of updating the bathroom's design. Stick with fixtures that are traditional and timeless. For example, if you pick out a blue toilet, bathtub, and sink, that blue hue is going to wear out pretty quickly. Go with neutral colored fixtures, whether it is a new toilet or shower enclosure, and these are the things that will easily fit in with whatever is trending down the road. Faucets and other fixtures such as knobs and towel racks can easily be swapped out with different metals and finishes if you change your mind.
Consider Natural Stone Implements
Natural stone is almost always a timeless feature in a bathroom. Whether you go with natural stone countertops for your vanity or natural stone tile in your shower, these are investments that will carry you through all kinds of trending design. Natural stone is an easy and cost effective way to up the appeal of a small bathroom as well. Classic designs for small bathrooms often include small natural stone design traits.
Bathroom Remodel Design Takeaways to Remember
- Opt for neutral tile choices as much as possible
- Paint is an easy and budget-friendly way to keep your bathroom trendy and it is easy to change later
- Larger fixtures should be traditional to thwart problems later on
- Natural stone implements in a bathroom never really go out of style
Overall, your bathroom remodeling project is something that should bring value to your home, but your best bet is to stick with ideas that are going to remain timeless for the long term. If you need help to achieve a trendy bathroom remodel that is going to be truly timeless, reach out to RWC Windows, Doors & More for professional guidance with your remodeling project from start to finish. Check out our bathroom design gallery for design ideas to gather inspiration for your bathroom!
Top Kitchen Remodel Ideas for 2019
Top 2019 Kitchen Ideas & Remodel Trends
It can be fun and rewarding to incorporate the newest trends into your home, and the kitchen is the perfect place to start. Often called the heart (and the stomach!) of a home, an updated kitchen makeover will increase your home’s value and comfort. Whether for a new home or remodeling project, a new kitchen design plan can transform your space.
Although design is very subjective, there are certain kitchen trends to avoid when renovating or building a new kitchen. Modern kitchen design ideas are more open, clean and streamlined than they used to be, refined by years of trends. Faux finishes and all-white cabinets have faded into kitchens of the past. Here, we’ve rounded up the top 2019 kitchen design ideas to get you started.
Timeless Design Styles Come Back
When speaking of timeless kitchens (think: your grandmother's outdated, albeit comfy, space), it’s important to focus on the basic elements that make these types of older kitchen trends still relevant. The giant oven and fridge may be energy hogs by today's standards, but the beautiful stone, tile, or wood counter tops are still as impressive as they are gorgeous.
Incorporating natural elements and raw materials like stone and wood into your kitchen is an easy way to modernize it, while potentially giving it that rustic feel from another time. This can even be taken one step further with recycled composite countertops or cork -- sustainable or “green” living is still on the rise. You could combine these design ideas with another popular 2019 kitchen design trend that stands out: brass fixtures. Changing some fixtures to brass is the perfect way to merge your taste with modern trends.
Modern Cosmetic Trends
Many of today's kitchen design remodel ideas are based on classic elements with a twist. Kitchen backsplashes are rising in popularity, especially ones that add a pop of color, display smooth marble or feature funky tile patterns. This is a relatively simple way to upgrade the style of a room, and lets you add a bit of personality. Colored cabinets are on the rise this year, with colors like mint green and fire engine red rising to the top. Another 2019 kitchen color trend is dark hues -- navy blue, forest green and dark brown -- for cabinets and floors. This is opposed to the classic bright, light and open kitchen feel, so it depends what you prefer and what works with your home, but incorporating these different colors can give your space a comfortable, lived-in feeling while making it stand out.
Practical Small Kitchen Remodel Ideas & Designs
Sometimes, you don’t have the luxury of space to do everything you desire in a kitchen. If this describes your space, you’re not alone. Practical and efficient kitchen design ideas for small kitchens are abound this year. An easy trick it to incorporate mirrors and use every inch of wall space.
It’s important to find the right appliances for your space. Things like hanging light fixtures, lots of cabinets and windows, and open shelving can also help open up your kitchen. Especially in a small kitchen, it’s important that everything in functional and minimal to avoid a cluttered feel. In keeping with upcoming trends, try using a pattern, accent colors or textured contrast within your floors or walls; this will add to the design scheme without incorporating extra decor or taking up space.
Intertwining Form and Function
Kitchen interior design involves cabinetry, counters, backsplash trends, and flooring, so there are a lot of elements to look at when considering form and function.
Certain timeless designs have proven themselves to be practical, such as simply having enough drawers and cabinet storage, functional counters which don't easily scratch or stain, and appliances which do their jobs effectively. Some more modern remodeling ideas for kitchens, like energy-efficient or smart appliances, can boost your kitchen’s functionality. Freestanding islands are a great way to balance and maximize your space, especially if they have drawers underneath or double as a table.
Takeaway Points
- Some designs are timeless, it's always worth taking note of what aspects of traditional kitchens are proven to work well.
- 2019 kitchen design trends include colorful cabinets, natural stone and mixed metals -- get creative!
- Modern technology allows for new designs which might better suit your needs.
- Consider how you use the kitchen to make sure the design is practical, specific and fits your tastes.
Conclusion
The bottom line is to consider your expectations for the home. If you plan to live there and use the kitchen, personal preferences are more important than following trends. If your plan is to flip the house or perhaps live there for a short term before moving again, trends are going to more important toward selling the house quickly and to maximize the home's value. To discuss design ideas for your kitchen, contact RWC. Check out our photo gallery of kitchen remodel design ideas and one of our representatives will be happy to meet at your convenience to help design your new kitchen.
Window Safety Tips: National Window Safety Week
Every year in April, the arrival of spring is highlighted by the annual recognition of window safety. The window’s role is often overlooked, but it is an essential part of the home, keeping inhabitants comfortable and safe. National Window Safety Week 2019, hosted by the National Safety Council, spreads the message to homeowners that windows are not only an aesthetic feature -- they play important roles providing for your family's health, safety, and security.
Windows do many things, including:
- Allow natural light to support mental and physical health
- Can save lives as an escape route during a fire or other emergency
- Prevent fall-related injuries, especially for children on upper levels
- Provide a view to your natural surroundings and activity on your property
Here we will discuss a number of solutions to increase the safety that your windows provide. Some of these products can be easily installed on the interior of your windows. Others are a more permanent solution for the exterior side, when the environment demands greater protection from vandalism, break-in, or harsh weather.
Glass Block Adds Privacy and Security
Glass block windows are double-paned windows popular for basements, bathrooms, door sidelights, and some ground-level areas of the home. You will benefit from the increased privacy and extra layer of security that glass block offers. Also, expect more energy efficiency from these windows! They reduce heat loss, because the glass construction surrounds a core of insulating airspace.
Choose a glass block that is the thickness of the surrounding walls (between 6" to 12") for a flush installation. You will enjoy selecting a glass block style to suit your home's decor from:
- Transparency for full clarity
- Opaque for increased privacy
- Surface textured - wavy or diamond
Install Window Safety Locks
While most all windows are installed with a locking feature, you can increase your home's security by installing additional security hardware on the interior side of your windows. Often referred to as 'aftermarket window locks', these products are easily installed by the homeowner to add another level of security against intrusion.
A simple window pin lock installed on a double hung window requires only one drilled hole and costs less than $10. Consider installing a window sash lock, which can be keyed for a child-proof solution on sliding windows or double hung-windows. Hinged, interior window safety guards can be bolted onto the frame of a window, but allow for easy exit in case of fire or when cleaning windows.
Consider Tempered or Laminated Glass Windows
If window safety in a rec room, children's room, stairwell, or a bathroom is a concern, consider a home window installation that features tempered glass. Tempered glass is hardened during the manufacturing process, making it extra strong. When tempered glass breaks, it shatters into small, and mostly harmless, pieces. You will not have the risk of serious injury that regular shards of glass will present.
Another option is to replace residential windows with impact-resistant laminated glass. This glass is manufactured with layers of two or more plies of glass sandwiched between a vinyl-layered material. When laminated glass breaks, the glass will remain together instead of spraying into the air. You can also expect better sound reduction and UV-light blockage with laminated glass windows.
Exterior Window Safety Bars
When homeowners decide they need an optimum level of safety and security from their windows, exterior window security bars (or burglar bars) can be an excellent theft deterrent while increasing the safety of the home's occupants. Safety bars also allow you to have your windows open without the risk of children or the elderly falling or climbing out of the open window.
Make sure your home is fully equipped with fire safety measures, because older style safety bars will cut off this means of exiting the home during a fire. Choose to install modern window bars that incorporate a quick release mechanism to quickly open the bars from the inside of the home.
Take-Aways
- Glass block windows are trending as an accent feature on modern homes.
- Windows near a shower or bathtub should have tempered or laminated glass.
- You can increase your window security with window locks and bar options
Visit RWC in New Jersey to discover the many ways you can treat your home and your family to new windows that have safety features built-in, and continue reading to discover many more tips that will increase the security of your family during the National Window Safety Week.
*Note: This is an updated version of a blog published April 5, 2018. Read the original post below!*
When you are concerned about the security of your home, it's time to consider how window safety guards and safety glass windows can help you. If you are concerned about keeping out intruders or providing safety for your children with safety windows, there are steps you can take to protect your home and family. From accidents to unwanted guests, you can make changes to your property to make it safer.
Keep your family safe with the following window safety tips:
- Keep the areas right in front of your window free from furniture or other objects children can climb on. This gives small children the ability to climb up to an open window and push on the screen.
- Window screens keep out bugs, but aren't made to hold any weight. Don't lean on screens in your home and don't allow children to push against a window screen.
- When you like to have your windows open, invest in window safety guards. The guards don't allow the window to be opened wide enough for a child to fall out or for an intruder to climb in. Learn how to disengage the window safety guards quickly in the event of an emergency. Roughly 8 children under 5 a year die from falling out a window according to the National Safety Council.
- Soft landscaping below windows can help reduce an impact if an individual falls out the window. In addition, high shrubbery make it more difficult to climb in your window if you are trying to break in.
- Make sure that the locking hardware works correctly on all of your windows. Pay attention to easy access windows on your first floor. If you close your windows, take the time to lock them.
- Consider windows made from reinforced glass if you live in an area prone to hurricanes or earthquakes. Windows made from reinforced glass are much harder to break and can help improve the security of your home. Safety glass can be up to five times harder to break than regular windows.
- For ventilation on double hung windows open the top part of the window to let in air instead of the bottom portion. Even on the second floor, pay attention to how wide your windows are open.
If you own a home and you have young children, also pay attention to the blinds and cords that are on your windows. Children can strangle by getting their neck wrapped around the cord. Secure cords out of the reach of small children. Teach your children the importance of not banging on glass windows, and to avoid jumping on the furniture near windows. Lock your windows each night, and make sure that each lock works properly.
Safety Measure for Your Home
You can keep your home safe from intrusion by installing motion lights, investing in safety glass windows and using window safety guards. If security is a big concern, you can also install motion cameras to track activity outside your home. Window safety can have a big impact on the overall safety of your home. Pay attention to locking your windows and know when it's time for a replacement.
When you are ready to replace the windows in your home, work with a professional who can help you. If you are looking for new safety windows for your home in West Caldwell, NJ or the surrounding area, it's time to contact RWC Windows, Doors & More at 973-227-7123 for further information. We have a full line of safety glass windows and window safety guards for you to choose from to help keep your home safe.