What’s Trending? Design, Eating, and Entertainment—Tampa 2018
- Christina Graham, Senior Project Designer
- Mar 7, 2018
- 4 min read
With IWCE just around the corner, we’ve compiled a list of the current design trends and the best of Tampa to give you a dose of just what to expect…
Bold Color and Patterns
2018 is definitely a year of BOLD statements. Many vendors are expanding their lines to include black hardware and trim instead of the traditional silver and satin nickel of years past. Pair the accents of black with “Caliente,” Benjamin Moore’s 2018 color of the year, to make that powerful statement you have been looking for.
Photo courtesy of Benjamin Moore
Large, bold patterns have also made a comeback. Designers, who are straying away from solids, make their statement by incorporating accents of large patterns to liven up the room. Plaids, graphic patterns, and tweeds mixed with leathers and vinyls add just the right amount of pop.
Photo courtesy of Knoll, Inc.
Nature and Biophilic Design
Biophilic design incorporates natural materials, natural light, vegetation, nature views, and other experiences of the natural world into the modern, built environment. These elements are being integrated into spaces more so than ever! From raw slabs of wood and stone, to photography and live plants. In health-care environments, evidence-based design has shown that nature has a positive influence on the healing process. Even new construction looking for certifications, in the health and well-being of their occupants, receives additional points by incorporating biophilic design. The Tampa Marriot Waterside Hotel in Downtown Tampa is a great example, with its rooftop garden (not open to the public), pictured below (right).
Photo courtesy of Darran, Inc. Photo courtesy of Marriot Waterside Tampa
Open Environments – From the Home to the Office
Tampa designers are also bringing the walls down by integrating open environments in both the home and the office. Open floor plans are becoming more popular in the residential market due to the appearance of more square footage. The most common in new builds and renovations is the “Great Room,” which combines the kitchen, dining, and living room. This concept encourages sociable living, where users are able to interact with each other and indoor–outdoor living by allowing more light to shine through. This same concept is also being integrated into the office. Executive walls are now being replaced with glass to allow more light to pass through the space and the traditional cubicle walls are no longer. Benching desk systems are becoming more popular amongst corporations to allow for creative and collaborative working environments. The collaborative work environments also benefit millennials entering the workforce.
Photo courtesy of Beaux-Arts Group Tampa
Best Places to Eat While at IWCE
Oxford Exchange – (420 West Kennedy Boulevard, Tampa, FL 33602) Hours: Mon–Fri 7:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.;
Sat–Sun 9 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
Oxford features an elegant, classical, and relaxing ambience with indoor and outdoor seating. The perfect breakfast, lunch, and late-lunch spot. Dishes include exceptional sandwiches, burgers, soups, and salads that are fresh and hormone-free. And don’t forget to order a side of sweet potato or truffle fries!
American Social Bar and Kitchen – (601 S Harbour Island Blvd, Tampa, FL 33602) Hours: Mon–Fri 11:30 a.m.–12 a.m.;
Sat 11 a.m.–3 a.m.; Sun 11 a.m.–12 a.m.
Built around American tradition and values, the owners wanted an atmosphere where “friends come together and good memories are made.” Enjoy a beautiful view of the water on their outdoor veranda while enjoying all-American comfort foods, handcrafted cocktails, and craft beers.
Le Meridian Tampa-Bizou Brasserie – (601 N Florida Ave, Tampa, FL 33602) Hours: Breakfast – 6 a.m.–11 a.m.; Lunch –11 a.m.–2 p.m.; Dinner – 5 p.m.–10 p.m.
This Historic Court House Hotel and Restaurant may be deceiving on the outside, but enter and you’ll find a trendy and casual environment. Divulge in an eclectic selection of gourmet foods and a variety of vegetarian and gluten-free options as well. Lastly, don’t forget to stop by for happy hour Monday through Friday, 4 p.m.–7 p.m., with drink and appetizer specials!
Photo courtesy of Bizou Brasserie
Best Places for Entertainment While at IWCE
Hyde Park Village – (744 S Village Circle, Tampa, FL 33606) Hours: 10 a.m.–8 p.m.
Luxurious open-air shopping district located in South Tampa. It is known for its many shops and upscale dining, and CineBistro, a combined dinner and a movie.
Tampa Riverwalk – (400 North Ashley Dr., Tampa, Fl 33602)
Transforming Tampa into a true waterfront city, the Riverwalk extends from Channelside to Tampa Heights along the east side of the Hillsborough River. This is a must to visit! Enjoy a nice run, walk, or jog with beautiful views of the water, parks, retail stores, and restaurants.
Photo courtesy of Christina Graham
Tampa Art Museum – (120 W Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa, FL 33602)
Since reopening its doors in 2010, the Tampa Museum of Art has been a great display of Greek, Roman, Etruscan, and modern art. The architects’ design was based on an “electronic jewel box sitting on a glass pedestal” and was awarded the American Architecture Award by the Chicago Athenaeum of Architecture and Design. It is also a great event venue with its seven expansive interior galleries and gorgeous views of Tampa from its upstairs terrace.
Credits
Christina Graham
Senior Project Designer
IIDA FL Central Chapter
Past President
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