Early indicators point to 2019 as a year of great opportunities for new construction homes, first time homebuyers and for those who are ready for an upgrade.
Residents want homes with floor plans and interior designs that support their busy lifestyles, encourage positive interaction and promote a sense of well-being in today’s topsy-turvy society.
If you’re looking for new home design ideas or even looking for new house plans with home decor in mind, you’ve come to the right place.
Here are 10 home design trends to watch as the year continues to take shape.
#1: Return of the Townhome
The townhouse has reappeared as one of the top home design trends in growing cities and an affordable, efficient favorite among younger buyers that prefer not to build a home themselves.
- The most sought-after townhomes feature abundant living, dining and kitchen spaces that rival many detached houses.
- Some units include garages, basements and even backyards for much-valued privacy and storage space.
- Many townhomes offer convenient access to downtown excitement plus the advantage of coming home to a quiet neighborhood environment.
#2: Mediterranean Moves Inland
Nothing pulls off casual elegance quite like the Mediterranean home. Long a staple of warm-weather coastal areas, this flexible home design trend is attracting buyers in all climates and makes any home feel like a vacation home. If you’re a fan of this home design, your dream house plans may include:
- Balconies
- Courtyards
- Heavy wood doors
- Tile floors
- Exposed wood beams
- Cream-colored walls
- Wrought iron railings and light fixtures
- Large, cozy fireplaces
Mediterranean influences create a light, airy feel that evokes a sense of summertime optimism — no matter how cold it gets outside!
#3: Tech-Friendly
No longer just a novelty, the “Internet of Things” is making life simpler in more ways than one. Incorporating these custom features into homes can improve safety and efficiency.
- The front door can do much more than boost curb appeal. Smart locks regulate who comes and goes, and energy efficient designs keep the inside comfortable and extreme temperatures outside.
- Mirror, mirror on the wall…who’s got the fairest pictures on Instagram? No longer the stuff of fairy tale fantasy, multi-tasking smart mirrors let residents plug in while getting ready for the day and are appearing in a growing number of homes.
- From the kitchen to the laundry room to the HVAC closet, connected appliances let residents adjust the thermostat, turn off the oven and make a shopping list — from anywhere in the house or anywhere in the world.
#4: Tech-Free
Along with the many benefits that technology brings, people are concerned about too much screen time and need a place to disconnect.
- While the open floor plan remains popular, homeowners now seek out at least a few private spaces where one can spend a little solitary downtime.
- The so-called “zen den” trend is one such quiet place for reading, relaxation and contemplation, away from the constant din of work and gadgets.
- Unplugged living rooms, with layouts that encourage meaningful conversation, offer another oasis from social media saturation.
#5: Work-Life Balance
Flexible spaces are in high demand as more people either work from home or telecommute between home and office.
This means creating a few rooms without a predefined purpose, that could just as easily be used for work, play, sleeping or socializing.
Still other buyers desire space within the home that could be rented to travelers through online travel services.
#6: Health and Wellness
The home is increasingly an escape from the stresses of the outside world and a place to focus on one’s overall well-being.
- Effective use of colors and materials that relax the body, mind and spirit inspire happiness and contentment.
- Health-oriented designs may also provide ample room for gardens, both indoors and out.
- Natural materials and rustic colors bring a taste of the great outdoors inside.
- Fitness-friendly spaces make it easier to get enough exercise in the comfort and privacy of one’s own home, without the hassle of going to a crowded gym.
#7: Green Keeps Going
Many buyers continue to seek out features that save money and make earth-friendly living a little more convenient.
- Energy-efficient appliances, geothermal systems and solar-ready designs are among the best options for reducing utility bills.
- Choosing the specific size, shape and placement of windows, which provide a natural source of light and heat, reduce the need for electric lighting and warm the home during the winter.
- Sustainable materials like “reclaimed” brick, stone or wood can often be used in new projects instead of taking up space in the landfill.
#8: The Dark Side
Buyers are increasingly drawn to bold siding colors that add a dramatic flair to the home’s exterior.
- Trending shades include black, charcoal, deep reds and forest greens.
- Dark hues pair well with white, gray and other lighter colors for a more balanced, classic appearance.
- Well-integrated materials and siding widths creates a textured look that gives the home a unique personality.
#9: Social Kitchens
The kitchen isn’t just for cooking anymore. It’s also a social space that blends effortlessly with living and dining areas.
- Oversized or uniquely-shaped islands with bar seating let more people join the conversation.
- Open shelving creates a more spacious feel.
- Dramatic backsplashes and dark fixtures bring a sophisticated vibe to the humble kitchen.
#10: Spa-Like Bathrooms
No longer a place to rush hurriedly through the morning routine, the bathroom is now a calming place to treat oneself to a little rest and relaxation at the end of a long day. Here are a few spa bathroom must-haves:
- “Destination” bathtubs, especially free-standing models
- Wood vanities
- Bathroom fireplaces
- Open shower areas with curbless entry and bench seating
- Multi-directional shower heads
- “Wet rooms” with a shower and freestanding tub combination
Looking to meet the needs of today’s demanding homebuyers?
Contact Mid-City Lumber today. Our friendly experts will make sure you have all the resources you need to make your next project a successful one.