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 Buildermagazine’s website.