Home floor plans can take much longer to evolve than design trends. Changes tend to occur over years, as some designers and architects look to push the envelope and take a gamble on what they believe will resonate with buyers. But a few trends are starting to emerge.
BUILDER recently weighed in on some of the hottest fads that could impact more floor plans in 2018, including:
1. Flexibility for multigenerational households. More homes are being built to accommodate multigenerational households, such as with a main-level bedroom suite or even an in-law unit to offer privacy to cohabiting relatives. Flexible layouts that can accommodate a variety of living arrangements are growing in demand, builders say. In 2014, 60.6 million Americans resided in multigenerational households, according to the Pew Research Center. Homeowners may not need the extra space quite yet, but they desire to use it one day. The extra bedroom on the main floor may be outfitted as an office or study until it’s needed.
2. The modern farmhouse. White farmhouses are in high demand. These homes are characterized by large windows, simple roof lines, and bright white siding that may be paired with dark windows. “The modern farmhouse aesthetic seems to have struck a chord with the American home buyer because it relates back to a more bucolic era while also embracing all the needs of modern life,” says Jonathan Hyman, architectural department manager at Donald A. Gardner Architects. “The simplicity and clean lines, along with a little nostalgia, help the modern farmhouse create a relaxing environment in our chaotic contemporary lives.” Some designers are experimenting with adding more color to the farmhouse look, like in soft pastels of light green or soft tan colors.
3. Greater storage options. Storage is getting more emphasis on floor plans. Mudrooms and laundry areas are showing up on more home layouts as separate spaces rather than combined areas. Homes with open layouts are finding more need for storage to tuck away items. Mudrooms are popular as drop zones for backpacks, coats, and shoes. Also, the placement of this storage is getting more consideration in regards to homeowners’ lifestyles. For example, some layouts from the Nelson Design Group in Jonesboro, Ark., feature master bedroom closets that open directly into the laundry room. Pets are also getting more thought. Design Basics, based in Omaha, Neb., includes “pet centers” in some of its floor plans, which feature dog-washing stations and other storage.
Source: “The Top Five Trends in Floor Plans,” BUILDER (March 6, 2018)
