The Top Luxury Finishes to Expect in 2020

Apartment and home trends are ever-changing in the world of interior design. Both buyers and renters desire spaces that embody function and beauty, no matter how costly they may be. After all, higher prices typically mean better quality.

High-end finishes have captured the attention of many residents looking for beautiful spaces. Beauty, practicality and durability are hard to pass up, especially when choosing your floors, countertops and other essentials.

As the new year comes closer, you can expect to see a rising preference for high-end finishes through 2020 and beyond. You may even find inspiration for your next rental or future home by watching the market. Here are a few things to look for in the luxury rental market for 2020.

1. Glass and Steel

Glass and steel are abundant in high-end apartments and homes around the world. Something about these two materials boasts extravagance — and when put together, they're unstoppable.

Australian architects, for example, have taken cues from American "starchitects" to create homes consisting almost entirely of steel and glass. Imagine the light, airy characteristics of floor-to-ceiling glass windows combined with the solidity of steel exteriors.

This style remains a favorite for a reason — less is more.

2. Wood Flooring

There’s no question that wood flooring has always been a beloved style choice for trend-focused residents. Hardwood flooring is undeniably handsome and lasts decades with proper care. It’s a luxury finish that is becoming even hotter thanks to advancements in sustainable production.

Newer reclaimed and recycled woods have come a long way from the styles of the past. Manufacturers often use reclaimed timber to create finished flooring indiscernible from newly created wood. Bamboo puts an attention-grabbing spin on a familiar concept — it looks and functions like wood but grows much faster.

Flooring manufacturers are increasingly looking to source local or sustainably harvested materials. Now, contractors can create fabulous floors without contributing to air pollution or deforestation. In 2020, expect more sustainable high-end floors to make a splash.

3. Quartz Countertops

Quartz countertops and floors are becoming a popular alternative to granite because of their beauty and increased durability. They provide a versatile finish that never compromises on style, creating a high-end look with practical value for homeowners or real estate investors.

Like granite, this material comes in a range of trending colors to suit modern design needs. Its remarkable resistance to stains is another plus, eliminating the worry of constant upkeep or resealing. As more renters and homebuyers seek longevity from their living spaces, quartz will continue increasing in the ranks for 2020.

4. Gold Fixtures

Make your kitchen or bathroom stand out from the crowd with gold fixtures. These add a pop of color to minimalist designs and fit seamlessly into more colorful apartment themes. The vibrant hue adds warmth to any room, creating a pleasant change of pace from the colder quality of steel.

A few well-placed gold accents can turn an apartment or home into an indisputable hub of opulence and taste. Gold accents come in finishes such as satin and matte to fit any style. Many residents use them as additional decor pieces, but more ambitious investors can build an entire room theme around this luxury look.

Gold fixtures are an easy way to add style to a minimal space. Look out for more rentals on the market with faucets, light fixtures and showerheads consisting of this metal.

5. Concrete

Concrete is becoming prevalent both for its look and its eco-friendly properties. Many consider cast concrete to be sustainable because of its low-energy manufacturing, and it can transform to fit numerous residential styles.

The sturdy material is also excellent for blocking out noise, which is a must-have for renters living among many other tenants. While apartment complexes made entirely from concrete may look industrial on the outside, the interiors show an elegance unique to high-end apartments.

Not convinced of concrete’s style potential? In one example, Swiss architect Gus Wüstermann's concrete creation combines affordability with luxury to create a high-quality place for a lower price.

Quality and Modernity Remain Supreme for Luxury Renters

Whether you're looking for a new place or exploring the market, there's much to see in luxury rentals for 2020. Property managers and real estate experts will be on the leading edge of modern design.

In a sea of options, you can stand apart from the crowd by prioritizing authenticity and uniqueness in your search for luxury properties.

Holly Welles is a real estate blogger covering design, finance and market trends for apartment dwellers. You can find more of her work on her blog, The Estate Update.

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