Top 5 design trends in single family homes

1. Smaller homes. According to the results of a recent AIA Design Trends Survey, there is a growing interest in smaller home sizes and volumes due to an effort to contain energy costs. The era of the McMansion could be over, and a significantly higher number of architects have reported demand for smaller homes. The key is to create scale and function over size, while creating more financially attainable homes.

2. Private outdoor spaces. Almost all homeowners-whether baby boomers, empty nesters, or Gen Y-want less maintenance and more privatized outdoor space to gather and entertain without the neighbors watching. This design trend can be achieved by positioning architecture around the outdoor space or by allowing the outdoor space to pierce architecture, affording more living spaces in the house to be exposed to the outdoor area.


3. Super-sized kitchens. In addition to food preparation, the kitchen serves as an entertainment area when guests are present, a conversation area among family members, or even a place for homework or a craft project. Islands and their seating capacity must expand in size, and utility spaces and pantries need to be able to store more packaged foods, which are now purchased in larger boxes and in multiple quantities. 

 

4. Technology. New products create a need for a new lifestyle, which revolves around the use of hand-held electronic devices. How can a family room support two laptops and an iPad notebook and multiple smartphones? Are we designing more electric plug capability to accommodate recharging needs? Are master bedrooms able to accommodate a flat-screen TV?

5. Dogs & Cats. While we design homes for human habitation, don't forget man's or woman's best friends. Approximately 37% of all U.S. households have a pet. Capture pet-lovers' hearts by adding practical conveniences such as built-in doggie doors, pet showers, and storage for pet-related items.