Top Features and Design Trends in New Homes
Judie Docs, Executive Officer – CSP, MCSP, CGP, CMP, MIRM
North Coast Building Industry Association (NCBIA) ncbia.com
As the home building industry celebrates New Homes Month in April, recent research shows that walk-in master bedroom closets, low-emissivity (low-e) windows, and laundry rooms are the most likely features in new homes this year, based on a survey of single-family home builders.
The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) asked builders about energy-efficient features that will likely be in new homes in the coming year. At the top of the list were energy-efficient lighting, programmable thermostats, and ENERGY STAR appliances. However, energy-efficient or eco-friendly features not likely to be included in new homes are cork flooring in main-level living areas, geothermal heat pumps, and solar water heating and cooling.
According to the builders surveyed, the size and scale of new homes are trending smaller. Home buyers desire smaller homes, not only in overall square footage but also in the number of rooms, such as bedrooms and bathrooms. While home buyer preferences are trending smaller, open design concepts such as great rooms and nine-foot-plus ceilings on the first floor remain desirable.
When it comes to new home configuration trends, designers are including flexible spaces that increase functionality to laundry rooms. Hardwood flooring and wood finishes are included to add warmth and character both inside and outside the home. Another popular design feature trending in new homes is creating outdoor spaces that seamlessly integrate with indoor living.
There are many other benefits of owning a new home that might be less obvious but are often found to be just as valuable. Homeowners gain a strong sense of community by creating lasting friendships with neighbors. Some new home developments even host block parties to help neighbors get to know each other. Owning a new home also means having a clean slate to create a space that is all your own.
For more information on the benefits of a new home, contact the NCBIA. We are your local not-for-profit trade association representing member companies involved in all aspects of home building, remodeling, and other services available to help you in the future. So, you can see that you use an NCBIA member for your protection. If you are unsure that your contractor is a member of the NCBIA or you are looking for a list of NCBIA members, you can visit our website at www.ncbia.com or call 440-934-1090. We also have a job posting board (under the Industry tab).
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