It’s that time of year when I turn to one of our favorite architects, Peter Cadoux, to learn what’s trending in homes for the year ahead. I find it fascinating how lifestyles can be distilled into how we build or renovate houses, especially after the sea change in living these past wacky years.
What are the trends? Well, imagine 2021 trends hopped up on Red Bull. Buyers are snapping up properties to renovate, raze, and erect. Remote work and staycations are making our homes a place to live, work, and recreate. We also remain cognizant of our carbon footprint, health, and convenience. So there's a rush for pools, indoor/outdoor spaces and, says Peter, “destination locations on your own property.”
Small is the New Big
Smaller homes facilitate the inevitable downsizing while maintaining a welcoming space for visitors and new family members. “It’s important to be clever about designing [for smaller spaces]. Smaller homes live large and have special features.” For example, multi-functioning built-ins and “pocket door” walls that create multiple rooms.
Bunk Beds Aren’t Just for Kids…
Home has become the center for socialization and the number of “residents” and guests expand and contract. Sophisticated bunk beds allow for a greater number of overnighters.
Themed Rooms
Jazzed up basements and attics. “They don’t have to be the same aesthetically,” Peter explains. “So there’s an opportunity to make them a ‘destination location.’” He recounted a couple who lived by the water who decorated their attic in a nautical theme to display the husband’s fishing gear.
Outside In
Kitchens, especially, are conducive to this trend. According to Peter, “Kitchens are largely on the back of the house and, especially if overlooking a pool, can have a wonderful indoor/outdoor adjacency.”
Also, natural light is a bright spot. Homeowners are “really pushing to find clever ways of bringing light in, with angled glass and large windows.”
Inside Out
BBQs are tricked out with more functionalities, and durable fabrics are creating more choices for outdoor design. You can literally create an “indoor” room on your patio.
Pumped Up Home Gyms and More
Ever popular in our town, these are getting jacked with spas, indoor pools and more. Peter says “I designed one home with a half-court basketball that converts to a pickle ball court, hot and cold plunge pools, fitness area, hydrotherapy, and viewing room.” As he mentioned earlier, a destination location right where you live.
CadouxAIA.com