Based on responses to a recent survey by the National Association of Homes 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% of respondents said).
- Homes will have more “green” features (68%)
- Homes will have more technology features (29%).
- Homes will have more universal access features (20%).
- Homes will have more outdoor living features, such as kitchens and fireplaces (10%).
- The average home size will be roughly 2150 sf.
- Living rooms will merge with other spaces in the home (52%), vanish to save on square footage (30%), or become a parlor/retreat/library/music room (13%).
- If the living room doesn’t vanish, it will likely decrease in size (76%).
- Also downsizing are the entry foyer (66%) and dining room (63%).
- 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 2-car garage.
- “Unlikely” features include 3 or more bathrooms, mudroom, unheated porch, dining room, skylights, 3-car garage, 4 or more bedrooms, media room, and 2 master bedroom suites.
- Homebuyers are “somewhat likely” to want universal design features such as stepless entries, 3-foot-wide doorways and 4-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.