Being in the business of woodworking does not exempt you from being up on trends. Your clients still want your input on what's being built – for either their home or their business.

So in thinking, “how can I bring insights on the latest design trends to this market in a way that's interesting, fun and relevant to what you do,” I grabbed my camera and took a walk through the stores of Chicago.

I know that the color blue is a big trend these days. If you look at the latest kitchens and mudrooms, you'll see a lot of blue cabinetry incorporated. Sometimes it's just an accent piece, sometimes it's in the tile or paint and sometimes the whole freakin' kitchen is blue (to each his own).

I like the idea of taking almost “primitive” wood (in that it's unfinished and rather raw looking) and using that as both structure and style.

The Bloomingdale's Home Store spurred the idea with this bedroom display area that uses pallet pieces as structure. You'll also see that they have splashed in some blue paint for “art effect” and added blue accessories to make the design “of the moment”.

So when your clients ask about “hot colors” and the possibility of having a blue kitchen, now you can suggest some alternatives that incorporate “of the moment style” and “timelessness” in one terrific design solution.

Take a look at the pics for some inspiration. And, while you're at it, visit me at http://butchkoandcompany.com/b2b/houzzsignup/ to get some additional insights involving both design and marketing – for free!