In the world of home construction, home design trends are ever-evolving. Whether you’re a developer looking to stay ahead of the curve or simply interested in the latest in home design, understanding these trends can help guide your next project.
Franks Betz Associates has created award-winning house plans builders and homeowners love since 1976. We continue expanding our house plans to ensure they reflect the functional, stylish residence today’s homeowners are looking for. Here, we explore nine top trends in home design that we’ve been seeing.
Nine Trends in Custom House Plans
1. European Cottage-Style Homes
The charm and character of European cottage-style homes are appealing for their ability to bring you back in time while feeling modern. This design trend emphasizes cozy, rustic aesthetics with natural materials like wood and stone. Wembley Place is one of Frank Betz custom house plans that showcases this trend perfectly, incorporating the quaint, timeless appeal of a European cottage with practical and contemporary layouts.
2. A Scullery Off the Kitchen
A scullery, often referred to as a back kitchen, is becoming a must-have in contemporary house designs and plans. In fact, there’s one included in our Wembley Place house plan. Positioned adjacent to the main kitchen, a scullery provides extra space for food preparation, storage, and cleanup, allowing the primary kitchen to remain a clean and inviting area for social gatherings. There are several pros to a scullery, like a place to hide messy dishes, less used countertop appliances (toaster, mixers, etc.), china storage, space for a beverage fridge, and more. The practicality and convenience of a scullery make it a popular addition in today’s home design trends.
3. Dark Colors on Elevations
Dark exterior colors are making a bold statement in modern home designs. Shades like navy, dark gray, black, and deep green are being used to create striking, sophisticated home exteriors. These darker hues not only add a dramatic flair but also offer benefits you may not have considered. Things like increasing a home’s value, accentuating a home’s landscaping, reducing heating costs, and hiding imperfections are pros to a darker elevation. Designs like Becton Park and many of our custom house floor plans demonstrate how dark colors can elevate the curb appeal of a property.
4. U-Shaped Staircases
U-shaped staircases, also called “switchback” or “half-turn” stairs, are gaining popularity for their elegant design and space-efficient layout. Unlike traditional straight or L-shaped staircases, U-shaped stairs offer a compact footprint while providing a grand architectural feature within the home. They are perfect for creating a seamless flow between different levels of a house and add an element of sophistication to the interior design. Our Stansbury Glen and Forsyth Knoll custom house plans are great examples of this trend.
5. Flex Rooms
Flex rooms are all about versatility, allowing homeowners to adapt spaces to their changing needs. Whether used as a home office, a hobby room, gym, playroom, guest bedroom, or an additional living room, these multifunctional rooms provide invaluable flexibility. This trend offers homeowners a more adaptable living environment that can cater to a variety of lifestyles and life stages.
6. Bathtub/Shower Combo vs. Standing Shower Only
Both bathtubs and walk-in showers offer their own positive impact on a home’s design and person’s lifestyle. They’re a major trend in bathroom design that shows no sign of disappearing. Standing showers offer water conservation, accessibility, and are quick and convenient. They create a sleek, modern look and are often easier to maintain. Bathtubs are a great option for families with small children and a relaxing spa day or soak for sore muscles. Overall, the bathtub/shower combo provides versatility within custom house plans, incorporating both options to cater to diverse preferences and needs.
7. Water Closets
A water closet is a dedicated space within a bathroom just for the toilet. This trend is becoming a hallmark of luxury home design. It offers privacy and a cleaner bathroom aesthetic by separating the toilet from the main bathing area. Some prefer not to have it completely closed off and instead opt for using glass or tile walls to separate the toilet, making it feel less claustrophobic and closet-like. High-end homes frequently include water closets as a standard, highlighting their appeal in contemporary house designs and plans.
8. Steam Showers & Saunas
Incorporating steam showers and saunas into home bathrooms is a growing trend that brings the spa experience into everyday living. These features not only offer health benefits, such as improved circulation and relaxation, but also add a luxurious touch to a home. Developers are increasingly including these amenities in custom house floor plans to attract discerning buyers.
9. Heated Flooring in Bathrooms
Heated flooring in bathrooms is a trend that combines comfort with luxury. Especially appealing in colder climates, heated floors provide a warm, soothing surface that enhances the overall bathing experience. Heated flooring offers pros beyond comfort. They require no maintenance and last up to 20+ years, they’re non-allergenic, energy-efficient, and are easy to install. This feature is becoming standard in high-end homes, reflecting a commitment to creating comfortable, inviting spaces.
Contact Frank Betz Today!
From the rustic charm of European cottage-style homes to the luxurious appeal of heated bathroom floors, these trends highlight the dynamic nature of home construction design. If you’re looking to incorporate these trends into your next project, Frank Betz Associates offers a wide range of contemporary house designs and plans to fit your needs. Contact us today by phone or visit our website to view our house plans. Let us help you bring your vision to life with designs that are trendy and timeless.