It’s easy to indulge in trends when it’s as simple as grabbing a few reasonably priced items from the center row in Target. Why not take a chance when the price tag reads a mere $15? However, things become much more complicated when the prices start to rise and the items in question become decidedly more permanent, as is the case with kitchen and bath design. Unlike in other spaces, throw pillows and other small fixes are absent, making larger and more encompassing changes the primary means to create an impact. For Angela Poirrier of Acadian House Kitchen & Bath Studio, the key to updating a space in a way that won’t need to be updated again in just 10 years is looking more deeply into trends in order to see what will last both in utility and style for years into the future.

“We have configured a list of top trends for renovations around south Louisiana through experience with clients,” explains Poirrier, who will be leading a design seminar on August 14, which will focus on renovation design. “The trends I am going to focus on in the seminars are based on what clients ask for most, but also what has worked best.”

With years of experience under her belt, Poirrier says the most important thing to remember in approaching any project is functionality. For this reason, honed white quartz countertops are on the top of her list when it comes to lasting trends. The alternative stone choice allows for the achievement of a much-sought-after look without the problems associated with porous stones like marble.

“We’ve seen natural stone counters in honed and textured finishes for years, but more and more quartz manufacturers are implementing alternative textures into their lines now,” she says. “Clients can get the look of a honed white marble but without any of the maintenance of a natural stone.”

#TransformationThursday the Woodstone Project is by Acadian House Kitchen & Bath Studio @ahkbs The Woodstone Project The owners of this 3,600 square-foot home were living in the 80s, but with help from the Acadian House Design team, their dream design was brought to life. The kitchen renovation focused on sleek, modern materials mixed with natural finishes to create the look they were going for. A beautiful shade of honey walnut on the lower cabinetry, mixed with the white quartz counter tops creates a contrast that is sleek and robust. Also by re-configuring the floor plan, the owners can enjoy better functionality and flow with their newly designed kitchen!

A post shared by Capital Region BA (@_crba_) on Jul 26, 2018 at 12:22pm PDT

Taking trends to the walls, Poirrier notes that while subway-tile backsplashes are classic, to add a more dynamic and personalized look, a geometric backsplash is a choice worth taking a chance on.

“Geometric backsplash tiles are an edgy twist on the original subway tile,” says Poirrier, noting the popularity of mod styles in everything from clothing to homewares. “There are varied colors and textures in addition to the beautiful sleek edges that create streamlined geometric patterns. Geometric shapes are the perfect way to have a little visual interest without getting too busy.”

A simple tile in a striking pattern makes for an eye catching design without being too busy. #ihaveathingwithtiles #ahkbs #herringbonetile

A post shared by Acadian House Kitchen + Bath (@ahkbs) on Apr 6, 2017 at 12:32pm PDT

For tickets to the seminar, as well as more information, visit the event page here.