Practicality with style seems to be the trend buyers look for in new construction homes. Builders and architects are listening to buyers’ needs and coming up with ideas that kick decades-old thinking to the curb. As millennials extend their influence into the housing market, we’re seeing more streamlined and modern layouts. Take a look at the major trends that are changing the feel of new homes.

Layout and Design

1. The open floor plan has been around for a while, but it’s opening up even more. Many builders are now excluding a formal living room to create even more everyday living space. It also offers the advantage of making a smaller home feel bigger.

2. Instead of formal living rooms and dining rooms, these once must-have spaces are giving way to more flexible areas that can convert to a home office, an extra bedroom, or whatever purpose the homeowner needs in their life.

3. Multi-generational living is on the rise among families. Some builders are offering plans to accommodate aging parents or other generational shifts in family living.

4. In some markets, the two-story foyer and great room are seen as wasted space, and 9- and 10-ft ceilings are replacing them to keep the spacious and open feel.

5. The first-floor bedroom plan, especially in homes with smaller footprints, are desired for aging homeowners who don’t see a ranch as a must.

Kitchen

6. Large kitchen islands are desired as they serve as more than a food prep area. The island is a central gathering place in the home with seating for eating, doing homework, and just hanging out. And they’re now including open-shelving areas for easy access to often-used items.

7. More open design requires smarter storage. Instead of rows of kitchen cabinets, larger, closeted pantries offer necessary kitchen storage. They also minimize the look of clutter out in open spaces.

8. While stainless steel appliances and granite still drive the finishing details, quartz countertops have gained increased popularity.

Bath

9. Big whirlpool tubs are out and roomier showers are in. Many homeowners who build want to customize the shower to their tastes. While frameless shower doors are still contemporary and clean, some predict that the walk-in (no door) shower will catch on.

10. Buyers still love the tub in their master bath, but the jetted-built in tub has been replaced by the free-standing soaker tub.

11. Floating vanities or free-standing bath furniture help make a small bathroom feel larger and create a modern look.

Interior Details

12. A space to put your purse, keys, and mail is no longer sufficient. Drop zones that include plenty of room for an entire family’s charging devices is required. And buyers want plenty of outlets throughout the house as they use their gadgets in the kitchen, family room, and bedroom, too.

13. Energy efficiency is no longer just a bonus. Buyers want LED lighting, low-E windows, programmable thermostats, and ceiling fans to maximize utilities cost savings.

14. It’s already become standard to move laundry from the basement to first or second floors. But the laundry room’s function is expanding. Now homeowners want it to be more than just a place to wash, dry, and fold. A full utility area for laundry, storage, and even a pet cleaning station is now more frequently requested.

Basement

15. The fully finished basement with room for a big screen TV, wet bar, and recreation is still strong on the must-have list. But the dark “man cave” of prior decades is changing. Instead of being closed off below ground, more open, grander staircases are being used, much the same way they are on the main floor of the house. The basement is an area that needs to be flexible based on the family’s needs. The open feel makes it a more inviting space for multi-purposes.

Outdoors

16. Comfortable outdoor living continues to be a necessity. Buyers want a covered outdoor space near the main living area of the home. Whatever stone finishes or cooking appliances are used outside, they need to be low-maintenance.

17. Water-conserving landscaping is predicted to become more desirable as low-maintenance yard work becomes more important than ever.

Platinum Service Realty