Closet America is honored to have a guest post from leading hardware provider to the closet industry, President Elect of the Association of Closet & Storage Professionals (ACSP), and featured blogger on WoodWorkingNetwork.com, Richie DeMarco! Read on for his top closet trends to look for in 2016.

Every year, design companies and organizations release what they believe to be the leading trends for the upcoming year. As the president-elect of The Association of Closet and Storage Professionals (ACSP), I’m often the first to know when a trend emerges in the closet industry.

Here are 5 exciting ones to look out for in 2016:

The Color Wheel

Gone are the days of monochromatic matching.  Instead of creating a streamlined color scheme, consumers are mixing and matching their designs; drawer faces and doors now come in different colors and finishes. And while homeowners used to paint an accent wall, I’m seeing countertops being used for the same effect.

When it comes to color, clients are thinking outside the box. Even simple changes, like using different-colored edge bandings on panels, can create an entirely new look.

Texture Matters

The new panels hitting the market are stellar – the finishes and textures are more consistent than those of real wood. Consumers understand that pairing smooth, glossy drawer faces with textured cabinetry, for example, is a subtle way to add both elegance and a modern touch to their homes. (Bonus points if your design includes contrasting colors!)

Smart Lighting

Soon LED lighting will be in every drawer and cabinet that you open.  The consumer demand is there, and manufacturers have started making wireless remotes and battery-operated, motion-activated lighting to accommodate this growing trend.  LED lighting will take off in 2016.

It’s All about Accessories

Brass accessories, that is. For years, my wife preferred white gold and silver when making her fashion choices, but as of late, she wears mainly gold. And with the trend rising in both the tech and fashion industries, many requests for closet designs now include brass accessories and hardware. 

Double the Fun

Smaller living spaces and multi-generational houses require top-notch organizational systems and flexible rooms. A bedroom needs to double as a living room – possibly even as a dining room, too. This is why murphy beds, made accessible and affordable by the closet industry, are enjoying a resurgence. In small urban housing, combining two rooms into one is the most affordable way to add square footage to your home.

Industry Experts

As a supplier to many of the leading closet companies in the industry, my company, The Mayor of Hardware, is afforded a sneak peek into emerging closet industry trends, and we’re happy to share that information with you. Schedule a free consultation with one of our designers at Closet America, or visit themayorofhardware.com for the latest in closet hardware, industry news, and product reviews. 

To learn more about Closet America’s amazing closet organization systems and see some of our beautiful designs, check out our closet ideas and design guide here. To meet one of our professional closet designers call 800-747-3217 to schedule your FREE design consultation.