AV accessories like speakers and mounts have also become decorative objects. Larsen is keen on Leon’s devices for the home. “Their Mera Sound Sconces offer high-performance audio and dimmable lighting in a modern, understated design,” she says. They can also be paired with smart-home automation systems.
Upgrades to help with upkeep
In the coming years, designers expect artificial intelligence-driven technology to become more prominent—embracing it can make home upkeep easier. “These technologies, like predictive maintenance systems for HVAC and smart inventory tracking in refrigerators, help clients avoid costly repairs and reduce food waste,” explains AD PRO Directory designer Dominique Michelle Vidal.
But with new tech constantly emerging, discerning which gadgets are worth investing in requires sticking by the mantra that technology should solve problems, not create new ones. “People prefer tech that seamlessly integrates into their lives rather than demanding constant updates,” says Los Angeles–based designer and AD PRO Directory member Ryan Saghian.
“Today’s luxury is defined by effortless elegance,” says AD PRO Directory builder and designer Tommy Zung, founder of New York–based Z Builders and Studio Zung. “The future belongs to intelligent systems that fade into the background while delivering exceptional performance.” If the tech doesn’t improve your client’s life, it’s best to opt out. —Nabi Williams
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“Sleep Hygiene” Is Defining the Next Iteration of Bedroom Design
Clients want their bedrooms to put them to sleep—and it requires much more than just a comfortable bed
A few years ago, the phrase “sleep hygiene”—or daily habits that promote better slumber—might have thrown clients for a loop, but with recent research underscoring the link between ample quality sleep and longevity, bedroom design has rightfully taken on a wellness bent. While the classic components of a well-made bedroom—mattresses, headboards, bed frames, and linens—are important, a good night’s sleep goes beyond the bed.
For many designers, crafting a room that encourages sleep veers toward minimalism. “In bedrooms, we often work with soothing tones that naturally invite relaxation,” says Neesha Reddivari, lead designer at AD PRO Directory member House of Hunt. “Think warm neutrals and earthy shades [that] calm the mind and prepare you for rest.” These spaces are not devoid of color and pattern, but rather use them with intention. “I lean into tonal color palettes with only sporadic moments of contrast,” says designer Jennifer Salvemini, whose eponymous studio is based in upstate New York’s Catskills region. “I use pillows and art as a way to introduce visual interest.”