Building a custom home is a voyage you’ll likely take only once in your lifetime. A freeing experience, full of possibility and potential. Maybe 2017 is the year you’ll embark on the journey of custom home building.
If so, what should you consider and what do you need to know?
Those are loaded questions in the realm of home building. It is very much about your personal taste, needs and lifestyle, and you shouldn’t be led by trends, but inevitably they do play a role in the design and appointment of most homes. So, it’s not a bad idea to look at what’s been popular and what’s predicted for 2017.
When you think trends, you probably think of things like lighting, paint colors, exterior finishes. Yes, these are important, often trendy, categories for custom homes. However, if you’re guided by what’s trending, we encourage you to concentrate on elements that are long-term. Those that dictate comfort, accessibility and easy living.
Why? What we’re forecasting in 2017 is home design more focused than ever around lifestyle. It’s becoming much less about show than it is what is comfortable for you and your family—now and down the road. Is that a new concept? No. A surprising trend? Not to us. At Highland Builders, we believe your custom home is a direct reflection of you—it’s not one-size-fits-all, it’s a home that is designed for the way you live.
Highland Builders encourages you to ponder how long-term trends may impact you and your family. Some factors to consider include…
Universal Design
When designing your custom home, you should certainly incorporate what you need now, but reflect on how to make it just as accommodating for the future. Universal design is for all ages, sizes and types of families who want accessible living environments and adaptable spaces. This includes open floor plan configurations that offer unimpeded transitions from one room to the next.
These layouts aren’t going anywhere anytime soon—in fact, it’s one of the top home design trends according to BHG. Not only does breaking down barriers like walls, hallways and doorways improve flow, it’s one of the most important features of a universally designed home.
Related: Designing flexible spaces for changing needs
Usability
Efficiency, efficiency, efficiency. This means making better use out of the spaces that really count, like central living areas. Homeowners are more focused than ever on making 100% of their spaces completely useable—this is especially true for living, dining and kitchen. The advantage of working with a custom home builder is that they can help you get creative in making something out of smaller spaces in your home as well. A cozy nook underneath the stairway, or built-ins running the length of the hallway, every square foot of your custom home can (and should) be made functional.
Smart, Green Movement
Emphasis on home health and wellness is increasingly popular—it includes the idea of building a home with the least impact on the environment. This goes beyond sustainable materials used in construction. Homeowners are curious about air filtration systems, water quality and eco-friendly surfaces.
Per the NAHB, by 2020, over half of all home builders are expected to build at least 60% of their homes green. Smart home products are also popular in that they are proven to improve efficiency, comfort and safety. Think energy efficient appliances, automated lighting and programmable climate control solutions.
Custom Homes Built for Your Future
If long-term trends like these are on your wish list, you’ll want to find a custom home builder who identifies with your needs and takes a hands-on approach to building. When you work with Highland Builders we’re far more than just your builder. We’re your advisor, partner and resource. We recognize the importance of the preliminary steps—it’s not a race to break ground. Our team wants to thoroughly understand your needs for now, and the future, so we can uphold your desires when we deliver the final product.
Already own the land for your custom home? Just want to talk about possibilities? We’re here for you. One of the benefits of working with Highland Builders is we’re with you every step of the way. So, whether you’re ready to start drawing up plans or need input on financing options, it’s all part of our unique, personalized process.
Is 2017 the year you’ll build the custom home you’ve always wanted? Highland Builders wants to be the partner to help you see it through. To learn more about custom building a home with us, contact Highland Builders today at 804-449-6006.
