The COVID-19 pandemic has affected the economy and, in turn, construction and the housing market. However, something that is beginning to change now, and will continue in the future, is the way homes are designed, with a new focus on healthy home design.
Home office improvements.
Of course, one of the biggest features of value to a home as officials try to slow the spread of coronavirus is a home office space. Right now, trends surrounding home offices include sliding doors or partial doors that allow for both light and privacy while working, and the possibility of home schooling areas for families.
Wide open spaces
According to John Burns Real Estate Consulting, natural lighting and open spaces are a big request from consumers when it comes to building a healthier home. We know that consumers, especially in Colorado, already desire connectedness to outdoor spaces, and with increased time spent at home, features like oversized windows and seamless transitions into outdoor spaces are becoming more popular.
[Related: Built for life]
Touchless technology
Touchless smart home technologies like lights or sinks with motion sensors or voice commands are expected to become more popular along with open air designs. Thrive Home Builders specializes in “eco-luxury,” focusing on energy efficiency, ventilation systems and moisture management within a home’s structure.
Thrive focuses on Colorado-specific health concerns, such as radon exposure or mold that can trigger asthma.
The last few years have seen a surge in in-home AI devices such as Amazon Alexa, which can be connected to other in-home technologies such as a Nest Thermostat or a Roku TV. This interconnectedness already creates ease of use, and being able to control every device in your home with your voice eliminates how many things need to be touched in a home.
[Related: 5 kitchen trends for 2020]
Multigenerational building
As the pandemic highlights the value of keeping family close and healthy, the multigenerational family home is expected to grow in popularity, according to JBRE. This includes features such as separate living areas that may include amenities like kitchenettes, or even areas with separate entrances.
For example, Lennar offers Next Gen suites in some homes, featuring private entrances and kitchenettes with easy access to the main home. As the pandemic keeps everyone inside, homeowners are more likely to stay put for longer, and therefore, more likely to add home additions such as these.
Abbey Blakeman is a strategic communications and marketing student at the University of Denver.
