Embracing Materials That Make Your House a Home

Bringing Out The Personality of Your Home 

by Lynn Sully

Many of the materials in our homes serve a structural purpose. However, they are increasingly being chosen for their aesthetic contributions as well. Concrete, stone, wood, metal, and porcelain can all play a role in parts of your home, and each has a personality of its own.

In the past, concrete or steel weight-bearing beams and columns would have been dry-walled over or concealed. Today, these architectural elements are often left exposed to highlight the structure’s authenticity and emphasize the inherent beauty and strength of the material itself. These characteristics can also emulate the climate, environment, and more no matter if you live in Aspen l Vail, Las Vegas, or Scottsdale.

The trend toward biophilic design and increasing emphasis on sustainability is reflected in the growing popularity of natural materials such as stone floors and walls, sisal rugs, wool carpets, wood, bamboo, and cork.

Wood species, whether used for flooring, walls, furniture, or accent features, are a popular way to create connections to your region whether it be overlooking the mountains in Jackson Hole, the coastline in Naples, or the forests of Sun Valley and alike. With its variety of colors, grains, and surface finishes, wood is a versatile, durable, sustainable, and affordable material. Think beyond your wood floors to wall paneling and ceilings.

Stone is another timeless material. Whether you choose granite, limestone, marble or other natural stones, these unique materials can add color, solidity and a sense of permanence to floors, countertops and walls. Many engineered stones offer the appearance of natural stone without the need for maintenance.