America’s economic recession has had a significant influence on home designs. Before the Great Recession hit, lavish “McMansions” were popular. Instead, many of today’s homebuyers are looking for tiny home plans that can help them minimize heating costs and mortgage payments. Flexibility is another “must have” in family home plans. With a new appreciation for economic unpredictability, many Americans have abandoned the idea of upgrading to larger homes as their families grow. Instead, multi-generational home designs are gaining in popularity, as these flexible family home plans can easily support a new baby, returning graduate, or elderly parent.
Another reason multigenerational housing plans are all the rage right now is that Americans are living longer than ever. Hoping to live comfortably in their own homes for as long as possible (instead of being confined to a nursing home), many homebuyers are looking to the future and looking for family home plans designed for people of all ages and physical abilities.
Here are some of the top home design trends for 2012.
1. Larger garages, but not for cars.
Family home plan designers are favoring larger garages, but not for the reason you might expect. Instead of storing an extra set of wheels, Americans are using these larger garages as “flex space,” for storage or living space as needed. For example, while one family may choose to store clutter in the extra garage space, another may transform an extra garage space into a “man cave” den where Dad and his friends can hang out. . Ultimately, the extra space in the garage is attractive to modern buyers because it can be quickly turned to alternative purposes if needed.
2. Accessibility for all age groups.
A new survey by the American Institute of Architects found that nearly half of American architects rank accessibility as a growing preference among homeowners. Multi-generational home plans designed for age-in-place comfort often feature attributes such as:
–No twist faucet handles, to avoid arthritic pain. These faucets are activated through a lifting action which completely prevents the wrist pain that is so common among older Americans.
–Minimize stairs. Because stairs can be difficult or even impossible for seniors to use, many multigenerational home plans are designed on a single level.
–Bars to provide stability in slippery spaces, such as bathrooms.
Because such features appeal to a wide swath of homeowners, family home plans that feature a universal design often maintain high property values over time.
3. Multiple Master Suites.
Tiny house designs don’t have to feel cramped. Architects are creating multiple family arrangements within the same house to provide a comfortable living arrangement for different generations of residents. For example, instead of having all living spaces connected, a separate bathroom/bedroom/kitchen at the rear of a house can be accessed through a separate entrance. This preserves the privacy of family members.
4. “Command Centers” inside other rooms.
In the 1990s, family home plans often included a separate office area. Today, by contrast, the popularity of tiny house plans inspires these work areas to be located within other rooms. As an example, a designer might feature a kitchen nook with a desk, bookcase, and bill paper storage area. That way, Dad can keep an eye on dinner while he takes care of the family finances.