Home design is fluid and ever changing. Many features we clamor for today may be passé tomorrow. Remember white kitchen cabinets? At one time, this was THE top wished for item and now… It is dated and unwanted. Corian countertops… All the rage in the 1990’s but now, nowhere near the top of choices.
What changes can we expect in the near future?
Based on responses to a recent survey by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), here are some ways in which builders can expect homes to change by as early as 2015:
Single-family homes will get smaller (74 percent of respondents said).
Homes will have more “green” features (68 percent).
Homes will have more technology features (29 percent).
Homes will have more universal access features (20 percent).
Homes will have more outdoor living features, such as kitchens and fireplaces (10 percent).
The average home size will be roughly 2,150 sf.
Living rooms will merge with other spaces in the home (52 percent), vanish to save on square footage (30 percent), or become a parlor/retreat/library or music room (13 percent).
If the living room doesn’t vanish, it will likely decrease in size (76 percent).
Also downsizing are the entry foyer (66 percent) and dining room (63 percent).
Features “very likely” to be included in a new home in 2015 include a kitchen-living room combo (“great room”), walk-in closet in master bedroom, laundry room and two-car garage.
“Unlikely” features include three or more bathrooms, mudroom, unheated porch, dining room, skylights, three-car garage, four or more bedrooms, media room and two master bedroom suites.
Homebuyers are “somewhat likely” to want universal design features such as stepless entries, three-foot-wide doorways and four-foot-wide hallways, stepless showers that have seating, non-slip floor surfaces and grab bars in bathrooms.
People seem likely to lavish more attention on the kitchen, ensuring that room will retain its status as the home’s social center. Survey respondents said they are “very likely” to want double sinks, recessed lighting, table space for eating and breakfast bars. They’re “somewhat likely” to want a central island, walk-in pantry, recycling center and desk/computer area.
christiborden
The Borden Report 
Very interesting article. I do want to add that white (Shaker-style) cabinets are very much in style now. They are especially beautiful with Calacatta white marble on the island, and soapstone perimeter counters. White or aqua subway tiles are popular backsplashes. The farmstyle sink and sparkling polished nickel faucets compliment stainless appliances. Many people are growing tired of the dark cabinets and earth-toned granite that everyone put in during the first decade of the new century and are looking for something lighter and fresh. If only it was cheaper to change out a kitchen!
Trends come and go in fashion and in homes. For anyone who is looking to ‘update’ their existing home, it is good to consult a Real Estate expert so that you don’t make the mistake of putting in a trend item.