August is one of my very favorite times of year…I know that fall is right around the corner (my favorite season), the weather starts to cool down, football season kicks off and the annual Salt Lake Parade of Homes showcases the latest and greatest in home architecture and design.

For those of you who may not be familiar, the Parade started in Salt Lake City in the late 40’s and is an event now held all over the United States. It is a showcase of new construction and high-end remodels. It’s fun to walk through the homes, though I never get to them all as they are spread throughout the entire valley.

This year, the folks out at Daybreak provided me with a couple of tickets to attend the 2013 Parade of Homes. I thought I would share some of the trends I noticed in this year’s event and a short video overview of some of the homes we visited.

Trend: Bright White Kitchens

Granite countertops and dark cabinets are already started to look a little dated. Most of the kitchens featured in this year’s Salt Lake Parade of Homes were bright white.

In addition to white cupboards, the bright kitchens featured ever-popular subway tile. It works well in a traditional kitchen, as well as a more modern-style kitchen.

They were anchored by marble and quartz counters.

Trend: Butler’s Pantry

In the last several years, people have turned back to more traditional home entertaining.

I would love to have a butler’s pantry. It’s the perfect spot to have finishings and party items out without having them out in the open.

Trend: Loft Space

This year several of the homes had a small loft spaced on the second floor landing, near the bedrooms.

With a full-fledged teenager and tween around here, I love the idea of giving kids their “own space” to play video games, watch television or do homework…What do you think? Do you like the idea of a loft hangout?

Trend: Modern Fixtures and Design

Modern fixtures, decor and design popped up far more in this year’s Parade than in the past…

I love a blend of modern and traditional.

Trend: Washer and Dryer Unit in Master Closet

Several of the homes we viewed had a washer and dryer installed in the master closet, in addition to a large laundry room.

I am not sure that I need another distraction near my bedroom, but I do love having the laundry room on the same floor as a majority of the bedrooms.

2013 Salt Lake Parade of Homes

I really could go on and on. Instead, I am just going to share this highlight video with you…