The Combination Is Warm and Welcoming Rather Than Sleek and Impersonal

TREND: Mixed materials DESIGNER INTERPRETATION: "I love the austere palette of high-gloss white floors, stainless-steel appliances and countertops, with modern natural wood cabinetry. The combination is warm and welcoming rather than sleek and impersonal," says Lynda Felton, a Toronto-based stylist and co-founder of the online style magazine Covet Garden. TREND: Tech stations DESIGNER INTERPRETATION: Rather than a jumble of cords all over the house, busy homes increasingly feature one docking station, often in the home's Command Central: the kitchen. Another increasingly popular tech tweak? "An iPad shelf replacing the old cookbook shelf," says Céline. TREND: Wood investment accessories DESIGNER INTERPRETATION: "When it comes to accessories I'm loving wooden items – big or small," says Lynda. In an era of throwaway plastic accessories, the timeless warmth of wood is especially appreciated. It's worth splurging on quality pieces you'll cherish for years or even decades to come. Some of Lynda's top wood choices include "wooden cake stands from Herriott Grace; midcentury Cherner chairs; the Tomiyama Koichi walnut coffee lamp; the hand-hammered Yukihira Pot, and Willough by distribution's wooden coffee mugs." TREND: Eco-friendly countertop appliances DESIGNER INTERPRETATION: "My green-kitchen favourite is the SodaStream Penguin Seltzer Maker. Make your own sparkling water and store it in the reusable glass carafes that come with it. No more plastic or glass bottles to throw away!" Lynda says. Source: styleathome.com