STONEBRIDGE BUILDERS a White Paper on Home Design Trends

Introduction

Modern home design is reflective of societal shifts, technological advancements, and a keen awareness of environmental concerns. This paper aims to provide a holistic view of the most salient home design trends that have been influenced by such factors as the COVID-19 pandemic, advances in technology, environmental sustainability, and a revived appreciation for handcrafted quality.

1. Technology in Home Design

• Smart Homes: As the Internet of Things (IoT) continues to grow, homes are becoming increasingly connected. Smart thermostats, security systems, and even refrigerators are commonplace. This integration not only offers convenience but also enhances energy efficiency.

• Virtual Reality (VR) & Augmented Reality (AR): Both are making waves in interior design. Homeowners can now virtually 'walk through' designs or see how a particular piece of furniture looks in their living space before making a purchase.

2. Informal Spaces - The Heart of Modern Homes

• Open Floor Plans: Walls are coming down, both metaphorically and literally. Open floor plans offer flexibility, promote social interaction, and are more adaptable to a family's changing needs.

• Multi-functional Spaces: With the blending of living, dining, and kitchen spaces, there's a demand for furniture and designs that can serve multiple purposes – think of extendable dining tables or sofas with storage.

3. Home Offices - The New Essential

• COVID-19’s Impact: The pandemic catalyzed a massive shift towards remote work, making home offices more critical than ever. These aren't just temporary setups but ergonomically designed spaces that foster productivity.

• Dual-purpose Designs: Many homeowners don't have the luxury of a dedicated room for an office. As a result, there's a rise in dual-purpose rooms, like guest bedrooms equipped with a workspace.

4. Environmentally Safe Materials & Products

• Low VOC and Off-gassing: Materials that release fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are crucial for indoor air quality. Low-VOC paints, sealants, and adhesives are now in higher demand than ever.

• BPA-free and Chlorofluorocarbon-free Products: From kitchenware to insulation materials, products free from harmful chemicals like BPA and CFCs are gaining popularity, ensuring health and eco-friendliness.

• Sustainable Materials: Bamboo flooring, recycled glass countertops, and reclaimed wood are just some examples of sustainable materials that are both beautiful and environmentally responsible.

5. A Return to Master Craftsmanship

• Artisanal Touch: In contrast to mass-produced goods, there's a growing demand for items that bear the mark of a craftsman. This trend speaks to a desire for quality, durability, and individuality.

• Localized Materials: There's a renewed interest in sourcing local materials, which not only reduces transportation emissions but also supports local economies and imparts a unique, region-specific aesthetic to homes.

• Heirloom Quality: Rather than disposable furniture and decor, homeowners are investing in pieces that can be passed down through generations. This trend is not just about aesthetics but also sustainability, as it reduces waste.

Conclusion

Home design is more than just aesthetics; it's a reflection of our values, needs, and aspirations. The current trends underscore a collective desire for adaptability, environmental consciousness, and a deep appreciation for craftsmanship. As the world continues to evolve, our homes will reflect these shifts, serving as both sanctuaries and statements of our times.

Combining Housing with Co-Working Spaces: A Win-Win for Multifamily Communities.

In a competitive market, multifamily communities are consistently looking for ways to compete for market share. These days, combining housing and employment trends might just be the ticket for apartment communities.

43% of employed Americans work remotely at least part of the time. That figure is up 4% since 2012. The statistics get really interesting when you look deeper into the trends. During the same time period, from 2012-2016, the percent of those that reported working from home one day or less shrank by almost 10%, while those that reported working remotely 4-5 days per week grew by 7%.  With rising numbers of people working from home, there is an increasing need for alternatives to the traditional office setting. 

Many are choosing co-working spaces over a designated home office. People are seeking inspiring, brightly lit spaces filled with other like-minded people over solitude of their dining room table or an over-crowded coffee shop. Popular co-working spaces like Impact HUB in Boulder,  WeWork in Denver and Thrive (pictured) offer amenities that attract and retain members that otherwise might maintain a home office. Super fast Internet, business-class printers, complimentary coffee and tea and private phone booths combine the comforts of working from home with the benefits of the company office.

In the Denver Metro area, people pay an average of $200-300/month for a membership or “spot” in a co-working space.  A designated desk or office in one of these locations can range between $450-895/month. 

Can apartment complexes and multifamily developments capitalize on this new trend? Chris Tolar, President of Stonebridge Builders in Denver, CO thinks so. Tolar says, “Communities are looking at their common areas differently these days.  They’re no longer simply a shared space to have a networking event or birthday party, but they are potential opportunities to generate revenue. At Stonebridge, we are getting more requests to not only update the aesthetics, but also to design and build functional spaces that allow people to get work done.”

Given the ever-increasing numbers of people working remotely, multifamily communities can benefit greatly from the renovation or remodel of an existing common area into a functional co-working space.  Building common areas that allow people to effectively work from home without dedicating any of their living space to a home office can justify increases in monthly lease rates of$150-300 at a minimum.  

To design and renovate common areas for greater functionality and increased revenue, contact Stonebridge Builders for a consultation.