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Uchi Dallas was designed by architect Michael Hsu with lighting by KL Lighting Studios. The two-story space features 74 total zones, each controlled by Ketra products in a combination of wireless and wired communication.
Ketra, the innovative lighting system that focuses on providing homeowners and commercial spaces alike with the highest quality of natural light, spoke to a group of diversely talented designers about some of the most important trends they see occurring in 2019. From technology as a form of security, to the return to neutrals, the investment in furniture that is meant to last, and the value of light in our lives—here are few of the trends these designers expect to see this year.
SMART TECHNOLOGY
Ketra Mobile App.
Erin Ruby, Founder of Erin Ruby Design, LLC: One of the major advantages to tech and connectivity in the home is the ability to manage the property remotely, with doorbells now doubling as security cameras, wireless thermostats that can be preset or adjusted while away, or programmable lighting and window shades to save energy and/or to make it appear that people are in the home. These features provide a welcome sense of control and security.
This sensibility extends into the commercial market in a similar way—allowing employees to manage infrastructure conveniently from their phone, whether they are on or off site. For lighting in particular, I love working with Ketra because they take this concept a step further: offering full spectrum LED lighting that is limitless in its variety of applications. Their wireless system can be programmed as a brand accent, entertaining tool, or to mimic the path of the sun throughout the day.
Charles Pavarini III, Founder + J. Randall Tarasuk, VP, of Pavarini Design: Almost all clients, at whatever financial level, are looking for SMART home technology such as remote audio and lighting control, to enhance the way they live and to reduce energy costs.
Rendell Fernandez, Design Director at Pembrooke & Ives: Technology always has something new that peaks a client’s interest. Voice actuated smart speakers now add another layer of home automation controls that were non-existent just a few months ago. Think of the possibilities when voice recognition becomes as reliable as flicking a switch.
Benjamin Moore’s Color of the Year 2019, Metropolitan AF-690, reinforces the notion that neutrals are back.
THE RETURN TO NEUTRALS
Pavarini and Tarasuk: We’ll be seeing an abundance of neutrals grays and pale pastels that contrast with early 80’s varieties of pale plums, pomegranates, and violets contrasting with dark charcoals.
Fernandez: While most colors are driven by client preferences that illustrate the diversity of the full color spectrum, the designers at Pembrooke & Ives stay true to neutral tones and natural finishes.
LET THERE BE LIGHT
Founded in 2009, Ketra has engineered lighting technology that mimics the natural spectrum of light.
Pavarini and Tarasuk: Natural light is a key element to think about when designing a space.It reinforces our connection to nature and makes us feel good. Full spectrum LED lighting like that which is now being offered by Ketra, certainly avails us to another level of consideration. The ability to amplify the natural spectrum of light coming through your windows is something we have never had the ability to do before. It’s a breakthrough that is sure to find a growing market.
Ruby: As the quality of lighting technology improves and evolves, this will continue to be an increasingly vital aspect of the built environment. Any space is only as good as it’s lighting. Lighting dictates how spaces are perceived (warm and inviting, or cold and stark) as well as how color is rendered. When you use Ketra’s designs, the dynamic light shifts throughout the day, providing crisp white light during the day, and soft, warm light in the evening, making a space feel bathed in sunlight.
FURNITURE THAT IS MEANT TO LAST
Ruby: In response to the culture of fast furniture and disposable pieces purchased solely for convenience, more and more manufacturers are offering quality products in reasonable lead times. Even IKEA is making fine crafted products now! Businesses are seeing the value of investing in meaningful pieces, be it furniture, artwork, or lighting, etc., to elevate the experience within their space, and offer a more thoughtful representation of their culture and brand.