INDOOR AIR QUALITY

Building code mandates for better sealing and insulation sometimes result in a decline in indoor air quality. This is sometimes referred to as “Sick House Syndrome,” and it’s when occupants become susceptible to respiratory issues, headaches, and fatigue. There are many ways to remedy it.

Today’s wallpaper designs are a far cry from your grandmother’s, which helps explain the revival wallpaper is having in the world of interior design. Wallpaper can be cozy, invigorating, whimsical, luxurious and much more.

“Yesterday’s wallpaper patterns were generally uninspiring small repeats and patterns, intended to blend in rather than stand out and make a statement,” notes Lauren Love, co-founder of wallpaper design studio Abnormals Anonymous in Poulsbo. “Current wallpaper patterns are designed to be expressive, creating spaces that feel lived-in and evoke an ambiance or emotion that even the most saturated paint hue cannot deliver.”Add character to your home with wallpaper

The kitchen appliance sector was well represented at EuroCucina/FTK at Fiera Rho Milano. Although the total percentage of appliance manufacturers displaying at EuroCucina that serve the US market is limited, there was much to consider for design professionals with US clientele. The noteworthy trends seen at the show included a wide spectrum of colorful finish options from matte black and matte white to blue, yellow, green and more, integrated (view-saving) downdraft ventilation systems, Wi-Fi connectivity, ‘burnerless’ induction cooking surfaces that track pot movement in real time, integrated infrared/AI sensors that take the guesswork out of cooking and food preservation and sleek, compact outdoor cooking equipment.

Designer Molly McCabe and her husband share a love of grilling, entertaining and watching wildlife from their deck on Washington’s Bainbridge Island. For decades, the cedar deck — built by the couple from trees felled on their pond-side property — served as a grilling spot and an outdoor play area for their children.