5 design trends for new homes

Privacy, personal elements, and practicality are a few of the features that buyers purchasing new homes desire, according to experts interviewed by Builder magazine. Here’s what designs those experts say are popular this year. Private outdoor spaces. Buyers are looking for outdoor areas that have some privacy from nearby houses. Outdoor “rooms.” These covered outdoor spaces adjoin interior rooms but provide access to outside. Personal touches. Those buyers purchasing new or existing homes are looking for ways to introduce their personal touch in a home, typically through custom fixtures, flooring, and kitchen designs. More room in the garage. Cars aren’t the only items homeowners store in garages. Buyers are looking for extra space to expand their storage options. Small and efficient. Some buyers are looking at smaller homes seeking energy efficiency and functional spaces. Read about nine other design trends in “14 New-Home Design Trends for 2014” on Builder magazine’s website.