Barbara Ann Milner

Homeowners Dan and Kristen Chaddock love their midcentury modern-style house and their neighborhood in Reston, Virginia, so they recently decided to invest money into updating the kitchen in their forever home. Built in 1970, the home was designed by noted local architect Ken Bonner, who built the first single detached home in a town that became nationally known for its innovative planning in the 1960s. Bonner designed 65 homes in the community.

Like many aspects of home design, tile trends for 2021 are tending to reflect the particular challenges of 2020. Tile companies appear to be telegraphing the public’s desire for serenity and well-being, and that’s being reflected in this season’s products in soothing, serene neutral tones. The value of easy-to-clean tile over other surfaces is also predominant in homeowners’ minds, says Suzanne Zurfluh, the director of design and trend for Emser Tile.

Lighting affects our health and wellness and, when used well, can improve mood and mindset and even boost productivity. With more of us working from home, upgrading your lighting may be on your home improvement wish list. If so, you may want to consider some of today’s healthier and smarter lighting strategies. Here are four worth a look. 1. Daylighting Daylighting means using natural sunlight to illuminate a space, and it can make your home a happier place.