As we say goodbye to 2024 and welcome the fresh opportunities of 2025 just around the corner, we invite you to explore our latest issue of LiveAbode. This year has been all about embracing change and finding new ways to make our homes not only beautiful but also functional and personal. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting your journey in home improvement, we’ve curated a selection of articles to inspire and guide you in creating spaces that truly reflect your style and needs.

In this issue, we dive deep into the world of interior design versatility and explore innovative product applications that are reshaping how we live. From creating cozy corners that add warmth and character to exploring budget-friendly renovations, we cover a wide range of ideas to help you transform your home.
Whether you’re planning a major overhaul or looking for small, impactful upgrades, this issue is packed with inspiration and practical advice to fuel your creative vision for your home. We’ve included something for everyone, from DIY enthusiasts to those looking to hire professionals, ensuring that you’ll find the perfect ideas to refresh your space.

As you explore this issue, we encourage you to think about how these trends and innovations can fit into your home. And as always, we love seeing your creativity in action—don’t forget to share your projects with us on social media and tag us in your posts!
Here’s to a year of boundless possibilities.

2024 Home Design Recap: Versatility, Textures, and Eco-Friendly Solutions

The buzzword for 2024 has been versatility. This year, we’ve seen a significant shift toward unique, personalized spaces that reflect individual tastes. Two major components of this trend stand out:

Mixing Textures and Colorways: The Hottest Trend for 2024

Homeowners are increasingly mixing materials and colors, adding visual interest and depth to both interiors and exteriors. The juxtaposition of modern siding with rustic stone veneer, for instance, can dramatically boost curb appeal. We’re seeing everything from cedar-look shingles to slate-inspired roofing used in creative combinations. Options like DaVinci® Multi-Width Slate can offer versatile options for creating these eye-catching combinations.

See Also: Influencing Mood with Color and Textures with Manufactured Stone Veneer Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Designs Continue to Rise

Homeowners are increasingly focused on sustainable and eco-friendly home designs to reduce environmental impact, save on energy costs and create healthier living spaces. Plus, government incentives and the potential for higher resale values are an extra bonus.

Eco-friendly materials that use fewer raw materials, generate smaller carbon footprints and conserve water play a vital role in sustainable design and are in high demand. Reclaimed wood, recycled metal and low-VOC paints are popular choices for their reduced environmental impact. While innovative products can also help reduce energy consumption—like that of US Tile® Clay Roofing which is naturally reflective, 100% recyclable and, when paired with the Westlake Royal Cool Roof System, can save up to 22% per year on heating and cooling costs compared to a standard composition asphalt shingle roof.¹

Biophilic Design: Connecting Your Home with Nature

There’s been a growing emphasis on connecting indoor spaces with nature that goes beyond adding plants and involves incorporating natural light, ventilation and materials that mimic natural patterns and textures. Large windows, living walls and the incorporation of natural materials like wood and stone have also gained traction.
Cultured Stone®, architectural stone and brick veneer products reinforce our inherent connection to the natural world, infusing spaces with a sophisticated texture that complements a variety of natural materials.

Functional Innovation Leads 2024’s Home Design Trends

This year, the home design industry is seeing a significant shift toward functional innovation, driven by changing consumer needs and industry challenges. Building material manufacturers, particularly those producing siding, roofing, windows and trim, remain at the forefront of this evolution.

Modular and Easy-Install Systems:

Products designed for easier installation, such as panelized stone siding systems, are gaining popularity. Siding manufacturers introduced innovative panelized systems that mimic the look of traditional materials like stone or wood but with simplified installation processes. These not only save time but can also help homeowners tackle projects themselves. An option like Versetta Stone® offers the authentic, handcrafted look of stone in a panelized format that is easy to install, facilitating easy upgrades without breaking the bank.

Smart, Weather-Resistant Materials:

With the increasing frequency of severe weather events, materials that offer superior protection are increasingly essential. As a result, roofing and siding manufacturers have created materials that not only look good but also offer enhanced protection against extreme weather.
Look for options that combine aesthetic appeal and durability with products like impact-resistant roofing, weatherproof siding and stone veneer that can withstand freeze/thaw cycles.

For example, Newpoint™ Concrete Tile Roofing offers superior strength and durability, with a Class A Fire Rating and Class 3 or 4 Hail Rating for select products and TruExterior® Siding & Trim combines the look of wood with toughness to stand up to extreme weather. These options offer homeowners both aesthetic value and peace of mind in the face of changing climate conditions.

As you consider home improvements for the coming year, keep these trends in mind. Whether you’re planning a major renovation or a small update, incorporating elements of versatility, sustainability and innovation can help ensure your home remains stylish, comfortable and valuable for years to come. Curious about this year’s biggest trends? Westlake Royal’s Annual Trends Report: The Best in Home Design is sure to spark your home improvement vision with ideas that combine comfort, beauty and function.

Remember, while trends can provide inspiration, the best design choices are those that resonate with your personal style and meet your specific needs. Consider consulting with design professionals or contractors who can help you navigate these trends and select the best options for your home and budget.

Sources:
1. Steep-slope Assembly Testing of Clay and Concrete Tile with and without Cool Pigmented Colors, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, 2005. Results vary based on profile of tile installed, location, weather and other factors.