5 Ways To Make Your Modern Remodel Feel Warm and Welcoming

You want a modern remodel with clean lines and a sophisticated look, but the minimalism that often accompanies the modern style can set unrealistic standards for an actual lived-in home. Or worse, the rooms don’t feel remotely comfortable. That doesn’t have to be the case.

By mixing warm and cool colors, incorporating organic materials, and creating welcoming spaces for gathering, you can make your modern home renovation inviting.

Mix Warm Colors With Cool-Color Trends

Your color choices for a room have a big impact on how welcoming it feels. Touches of warm colors, like those inspired by the natural landscape of Paradise Valley and intentional lighting can add a comfortable energy to a cooler color palette. 

The key is to keep a cohesive color palette across textures and scale. If you are going to use white, use a variation that has a pink undertone to avoid appearing sterile. Bring warmer colors like reds and yellows into social spaces to create a sense of energy.

Another option is to go monochromatic with different tones that change with the light. Add a pop of color to create interest if the room feels too cold, like a sunset orange ottoman in an otherwise neutral palette. The rule of thumb is to keep the “pops” under 20% so you don’t overwhelm the space.

Light and color are closely intertwined. Think about strategic lighting to brighten up dark colors, and play with a variety to pin point the feel you are looking for. Floor and table lamps make spaces more intimate and opt for warm white bulbs.

Incorporate Organic Materials

Another way to make a modern remodel more inviting is to bring in nature. Natural materials, such as exposed wood beams and leather accents, evoke the calming feel of the outdoors into your home.

Clean lines are a foundational part of the modern look and should guide the structure of the room. When it comes to furnishings and accessories, layer textures that have a tactile element, such as linen. Add finishing touches that look lived in, such as plush leather and soft wool. To help make the room inviting, find furniture with soft edges.

The Mountain Shadows Mission Residence, remodeled in 2021, is an example of this combination. The Paradise Valley property balances the clean lines and neutral palette with exposed wood beams in warm tones that also match the floor. 

When it comes to incorporating the soothing effects of nature, don’t forget about plants. Having plants in your home has been shown to reduce anxiety and can help with air quality. Choose a large statement plant such as an established rubber tree or several smaller planters with a variety of succulents. It’s easy to go overboard with plants, so be careful not to clutter the room.

Create Spaces That Easily Transition From Indoor to Outside

When you combine a modern open floor plan with the Paradise Valley scenery, breathtaking views will welcome your guests as soon as they step into the home. Take advantage of the desert climate with indoor spaces that open to a welcoming outdoor space.

The flexibility of folding or sliding walls can make rooms smaller and more intimate but expand for larger groups. Make those glass walls, you will increase the natural light creating an inviting and warm space.

Even if your group is enjoying your traditional living room, having transitional spaces enables you to appreciate the calming effect of fresh air and beautiful mountain views from inside or outside the home. Depending on the weather, be prepared for a variety of seating preferences by using furniture that works in both areas.

Define Outdoor Gathering Areas

Comfortable evenings in the Southwest are meant to be enjoyed outside. Be sure to have natural outdoor gathering spaces that draw guests together. 

The first step to creating a gathering space is seating. If you want people to gravitate to an area, provide comfortable places to sit. It also helps if there is a focal point, such as an outdoor fireplace or an interesting water feature, to add interest. Tiered planters or outdoor drapes can help create visual and adjustable boundaries, establishing a cozier space.

Appropriate outdoor lighting will also help create a welcoming space. Include dimmable options to make sure there is enough light to see at dusk, but it’s not too harsh after sunset. Hanging pendant lights, sconces, under-furniture LEDs, and string lights can create flexible options depending on the ambiance you want to create. 

The Mountain Shadow Mission Residence boasts modern lighting throughout the exterior and also incorporates traditional mission-style iron and glass to create a welcoming outdoor space. 

Embrace the Pull of the Kitchen

The kitchen is often the heart of the home. Instead of ushering people into other spaces, make your kitchen is a comfortable area to socialize over coffee or while prepping a big meal. 

Sometimes the kitchen isn’t used as a social center because it’s one of the hardest areas to keep tidy. Although you may be using the kitchen for its intended purpose, keep counters clear of appliances, cookbooks, and utensils. This will give your guests plenty of room for their drinks and plates as they enjoy the space with you.

As with other areas of the house, make sure all seating options are comfortable, from bar stools to chairs around the table. Bring in as much natural light as possible and keep window dressings minimal. Use smart glass windows to cut back on direct Southwest sun and add privacy with the touch of a button.

Reflect Your Personality for a Truly Welcoming Remodel

Your guests won’t feel comfortable in your space if you don’t feel comfortable in your space. Include meaningful accessories that embody your personality, including well-read books, favorite artwork, and family heirlooms. Make sure to work with your Paradise Valley architects or custom home builders to incorporate your preferences into the remodel. From color palettes to hobbies to favorite rooms, they can help you make your home modern, inviting, and perfect for you.

If you are ready to start planning your luxury home remodel, we would love to dream with you. Tell us about your project through our contact form.