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Category: Homebuyer Resources
The architectural and interior design industries are constantly changing to adapt to technological changes, environment, societal needs, and aesthetic preferences. Over recent years, trends have shifted towards more sustainable, intelligent, flexible, and health-focused living environments. These trends influence how homes interact with occupants and the environment. From incorporating smart home technologies to prioritizing inhabitants’ mental and physical well-being, here are some of the most interesting trends we’ve seen.
Homes are increasingly constructed to take full advantage of natural light and ventilation, reduce environmental impacts, and improve energy efficiency. Sustainable building materials like bamboo, cork, and recycled steel are in demand, along with high-efficiency HVAC systems and appliances. Green roofs and walls incorporating vegetation can improve insulation and reduce heat absorption. Buildings excelling in reducing utility costs and carbon emissions and creating healthier environments receive the LEED (Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design) certification. For instance, Northfield, our condominiums in Fort Collins, Colorado, has been awarded the LEED Gold certification. With luxury condominiums, stacked ranches, and townhome-style options available, it’s a great time to explore what we have to offer.
The “smart home” integrates technology into its infrastructure. This includes intelligent thermostats like the Nest, voice-activated systems like Amazon Alexa or Google Home, and full home automation systems that control lighting, heating, and security. The style of such a home is often modern and minimalist, removing unnecessary switches and devices.
The emphasis is on selecting materials and systems that promote good indoor air quality and overall health. This means choosing low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) paints, opting for natural wool carpets, and installing HEPA filtration systems. A style trend that coincides with this is “Wellness Design,” which focuses on environments that enhance the inhabitant’s mental and physical health.
Homes in areas prone to extreme weather or geological events are being built with resilience as a priority. This means elevated structures in flood zones, fire-resistant materials in wildfire-prone areas, and reinforced structures in regions susceptible to earthquakes. An example of this style is the “Fortress Home,” which has a sturdier appearance and uses robust materials.
Embodying the “less is more” principle, minimalist design features simple, unadorned facades, open floor plans, and monochromatic color schemes. It aims to strip down the essentials for a tranquil, uncluttered living space. Notable examples include residences designed by architects like Tadao Ando and John Pawson, who are known for their minimalist design approach.
Luxury should be a given standard, not a costly upgrade. With LuxMark, high-end design features are built into our homes as a standard. See the features highlighted in our model home in The Lakes at Centerra North Shore Flats.
Choosing future-proof and timeless trends and focusing on resources, wellness, and environments ensure your house won’t be outdated when styles change. The same goes for our standard luxury integration. If you want to learn more about it, contact us to walk you through our model home.