Trends & Influences: Elevate

ELEVATE 

Verb, el-e-vate 

Definition: Intentionally select elements to create a heightened sense of style. 

What does it take to elevate a space? A keen eye, an appreciation of the finer things and a willingness to defy expectations. The Elevate trend is all about maximizing what you prioritize as important in the home, be it glamour, comfort, trusted brand names or a signature style. Decide on your focus and elevate each piece in the home with that goal in mind, for the ultimate in upscale living. 

"In the realm of design, the concept of ‘Elevate’ embodies a philosophy rooted in purposeful living. Every space in a home design becomes a canvas reflecting individual priorities and a steadfast dedication to excellence. ‘Elevate’ is not just a word; it encapsulates an unwavering commitment to transcending the ordinary. We must strive to go beyond mere aesthetics, shaping spaces that encapsulate the true essence of luxury and intentional design. Within our craft, growth and elevation are intertwined with a constant challenge to the status quo. Our aim is clear — each home we conceive is more than a mere structure; it stands as a testament to the art of refined living."  

-Matt Connolly, Co-Founder and Co-Owner, Pike Properties 

The concept of elevation in the home is often thought to require flashy décor, or extremely expensive pieces. These aren’t excluded from the Elevate trend, but neither are they required. Elevating your space can be as subtle or dramatic as you please, and it can be achieved with any budget. The tiniest of details can often make a large statement with their presence, whether it be the gleaming knobs on a chef-worthy range or a glass full of elegant, slow-melting Whisky Ball Ice. Intriguing finishes and designs add those extra touches that bring a sense of abundance and luxury to a home. 

There’s an element of tactile appeal to the Elevate trend that can’t be denied. Use all your senses to truly imagine what a piece would be like in your home: the way light will sparkle from a shimmering chandelier, or the feel of cool marble counters beneath your hands. Luxurious steam showers, breezy ceiling fans and cozy blankets all appeal to different parts of your mind and body. Use a range of textures and finishes to create a feast for the senses that just feels upscale.

It's easy to overdo the elevated effect, but less is usually more. Give each piece room to breathe, so everything can be appreciated individually. Stone walls in the kitchen, for example, bring rustic charm to the room. But it’s hard to appreciate those walls if they’re blocked by décor or tons of furnishings. There’s a caveat, though, and it’s based on personal style. There’s nothing elevated about a space that you don’t love to live in. So, if you enjoy walls full of art, or rooms filled with furniture, you should indulge! The goal is to make purposeful decisions about what pleases you when you interact with the space.

”Quiet luxury” is a great representation of the Elevate trend. It focuses on refined simplicity, longevity and the beauty of function. High-quality, long-lasting pieces are prized for their value and permanence within the home. Of course, you can change things up whenever you like. But the right fixtures and décor won’t require updating after a few months or even years. There’s still space, though, for the presence of technology and modern aesthetics. Enjoy moments of elevated decadence and convenience each time you use a touchless faucet, control the lighting with an app or save energy using a smart thermostat.

Elevated design will always be in fashion, but this year’s iteration is all about quiet, conscious luxury, and intentional choices that transform the home into a personal retreat. The trend isn’t about being overly dramatic, edgy or beholden to current fads. Rather, it’s a tendency towards the items that you personally find to be indulgent.

Want more inspiration? Check out all of the 2024 Trends!