2008 Design Trends from Lowe's

Take a cue from high-end homes. Luxury homes showcase the latest in
floor plans, appliances and décor. Checkout your local tour of homes or visit
some open houses in new construction neighborhoods. Living spaces like
mudrooms and home offices are all the rage; formal living rooms are not.
Stick with your style. Many experts agree that your remodeling projects should reflect the style of your home. For example, if you live in an ultra-contemporary condo, a quaint country kitchen might seem out of place and turn off potential buyers when you’re ready to sell.
Kitchen updates. The kitchen is the heart of the home for many families and in
addition to food preparation it’s also a place to pay bills and do homework. Today’s kitchens tend to be open and often include cabinets for TVs, computers and small appliances.
Go outside. Outdoor living spaces are the latest trend in adding a room without
adding four walls. At the high end of the market, outdoor living rooms, kitchens and fireplaces are becoming standard.
Technically speaking . . . As our lives become more dependent on technology,
homes will become “smarter”, allowing homeowners to remotely arm a home
security system, turn appliances on and off, and control thermostats.