A recent series of discussions on Houzz.com confirms the trends we are seeing here in the Atlanta housing market. The homes we have built for many new clients in Atlanta included all three of these design elements.
Design trend No. 1: classic, yet contemporary
The new houses with strong sales now are those that blend modern and traditional elements to create cleaner and simpler elevations. Interior spaces are clean, bright and simple. Gone are the heavy detailing and generous ornamentation of the recent past.
This project: Gold Award, One-of-a-Kind Home, 4,001–6,500 square feet; Private residence, Chicago
Project Team:
- Architect/Designer: Kenneth Brinkman, Chicago
- Builder/Developer: Environs Development Inc., Chicago
- Interior Designer: Amy May, Environs Development, Chicago
Design trend No. 2: outdoor spaces as an extension of living space
Whether for a single-family house or a multifamily building, homebuyers are looking for private outdoor spaces that blend seamlessly with the indoors. This trend cuts across geographic regions, being as true in the colder sections of the country as in the warmer, milder areas.
This project: Platinum Award, Detached Home up to 2,000 square feet; Siena at Laguna Altura, Irvine, Calif.
Project Team:
- Architect/Designer: Bassenian | Lagoni, Newport Beach, Calif.
- Builder: Irvine Pacific, Irvine, Calif.
- Interior Designer: Austin Johnson Interiors, Irvine, Calif.
- Developer: Irvine Company, Irvine, Calif.
- Land Planner: Irvine Company, Irvine, Calif.
Design trend No. 3: the family triangle
It used to be that open floor plans were limited to certain geographic regions and buyer profiles. Now the open floor plan is desired throughout the country and by every market segment. The old living room has been replaced by a flexible space that can be used as needed while still being close to the family triangle.
The jurors noted that these new open plans rely on light and detail to give a feeling of spaciousness rather than simply being large.
For more information visit www.houzz.com and the National Association of Hombuilders.