‘Tis the season to be thankful and I am so thankful for you all. Happy Thanksgiving! I’ve always found Thanksgiving is a good time to reflect on the past and look to the future. In the remodeling world, we’re seeing some significant changes – changes which promote family, utilize space, and help you enjoy your home for years to come. Here are five changes I’ve been seeing.
Then: Formal Living Rooms
Now: Open Family Rooms
I remember formal living rooms. I still see them in older homes. Beyond greeting guests and Christmas trees, they see very little use. Now, families are looking for more practical spaces. An open family room encompasses the kitchen, family room, and dining area. These rooms typically use furniture to separate spaces, rather than walls, creating a family hub.
Then: Second Staircase
Now: Room for an Elevator
The spiral staircase is the perfect setting for prom pictures and the secondary one off the kitchen works well for everyday wear and tear. But, many homeowners are doing away with these aesthetic luxuries. Our clients often want to age at home, making stairs a serious consideration. Rather than a second staircase, we’ve seen the benefit of leaving enough space for an elevator.
Then: Dad’s Office
Now: “Lifestyle Center”
Now the office can be wherever you are. Smart phones, laptops, and WiFi mean you’re no longer chained to a desk. Don’t you love it? Rather than Dad’s office, a “Lifestyle Center” provides a multifunctional room where parents and kids can work, print, do crafts, and wrap presents.
Then: Soaker Tubs
Now: Bigger Showers (and a bonus Steam Showers)
Jacuzzis and big soaker tubs were the rage. But how often do they really get used? From my experience, not much. Few of us regularly have time for leisurely baths. On the other hand, showers are a daily necessity. Bigger shower stalls allow you and your partner to bathe comfortably together. A little help scrubbing behind the ears never hurt anyone. And women, with a large shower, gone are the days of crouching in a ball to shave.
If you’re looking for an extra shower perk, look no further than the steam shower. Gentlemen, you don’t have to go to the gym anymore. Enjoy your steam at home. You never know where a little time opening your pores will lead.
Then: Breakfast Nooks
Now: Outdoor Living Space
With larger family rooms that encompass the kitchen, the need for a breakfast nook is quickly disappearing. Rather, homeowners are looking for ways to extend their home into the outdoors. Large sliding glass doors on the back of the house blur the lines between indoor and outdoor. Suddenly, the patio isn’t just a patio. It’s part of the family room and eating space.
I’m really excited about these changes. They promote family, create spaces which draw members closer together, and allow you to enjoy your home for years to come. There’s so much to be thankful for. What’s on your list?