When it comes to innovative solutions for the home, owners won’t settle for fancy concepts and flashy ideas. Instead, they want an intelligent combination of value, security, functionality, comfort, and aesthetics. The 2020s are exciting years for designers and homeowners because there are plenty of great ideas in the air. These creative approaches range from unique architectural features to sophisticated technology. Individuals are choosing to remake their living space in ways that incorporate sustainability, accessibility, and economic realities. That’s why so many homeowners are adding safe rooms, domestic lifts, smart technology systems, outdoor recreation areas, and wellness-related amenities. Here are details about this year’s hottest ideas in residential living.
Concealed Safe Rooms
A decade ago, only high-security houses had hidden rooms where residents could take refuge during a break-in or terrorist attack. Today, safe rooms are popping up in homes of all sizes, ages, and price ranges. Peace of mind and personal safety are priorities for modern owners. During natural disasters or home invasions, the well-equipped, concealed spaces offer people a private place to wait out the passing emergency. Some individuals take the DIY approach and construct bug-out closets and hidden nooks behind bookshelves, in attics, or behind false walls. Others choose to hire professional contractors to do the work. Either way, it’s hard to put a price on safety and security.
Home Lifts
One of the year’s standout trends for property owners is the installation of home lifts. Once viewed as a rare luxury for the wealthy, today’s homeowners shop for domestic lifts the same way they do for a new roof, solar panels, or an entertainment system. In the 2020s, they’re a sought-after feature for owners who want greater accessibility for themselves or a family member who has mobility challenges. Even young couples add lifts to boost property value and add a touch of elegance to any room in the structure.
Lifts are a godsend for those who want to eliminate the risk of falling on staircases or find it difficult to climb flights of steps multiple times per day. The units enhance potential resale value and come in a wide variety of styles, sizes, and price points. Plus, they can easily be integrated into any home’s existing decor. Finally, the latest lift models are 100% safe and amazingly energy-efficient, which makes them a wise long-term living solution.
Outdoor Living Spaces
Bringing the outdoors in is one of the most popular catchphrases among residential architects. Many homeowners are already transforming their yards into fire pits, kitchens, and entertainment zones. Many of the spaces are suitable for year round use, while others, like barbecue patios, are geared more for warm-weather use. Other elements in the trend include screened-in porches, covered outdoor decks, and rooftop sitting areas.
Wellness-Related Improvements
Wellness-focused spaces are catching on with homeowners all over the world. The design concept’s goal is to include the idea of good health in the form of air-purification systems, meditation rooms, circadian lighting for better sleep, and skylights that let residents enjoy natural sunlight all day long. As the health and wellness trend continues to gain momentum in society, architects and interior designers will face increasing demand for areas that foster relaxation, well-being, and calmness.