8 Trends in Residential Architecture That Are Shaping the Way We Live
- Written by Lilly Miller

Our modern lives have a big influence on the selection of our future home’s design. While it’s true that future homeowners want something that is unique and in line with their needs and preferences, they also want their new homes to include certain on-trend features.
Because purchasing a home is one of the biggest investments many of us will make, it pays to look at some of the defining housing trends to help give us some direction and know what to look for when purchasing a new property. In this article, we’ll be taking a look at some of the biggest trends in residential architecture and just how they are shaping the future of real estate and the way we live.
Several bathrooms
Many buyers are looking for homes with several bathrooms, especially if they have a big family. They don’t have to be spacious as long as there’s a well-designed master bathroom. When it comes to the bathroom design, a contemporary bathroom with a lot of glass and stone is very on-trend. Lighting is another important feature of a modern bathroom - motion light sensors are a particularly popular option.
The open floor plan
The open floor concept is one of the most popular features of contemporary residential properties. A living area that connects a kitchen, dining room, and living room makes an impression of openness and airiness. More specifically, buyers are looking for the “great room” that opens the kitchen to the family room. Since the open floor concept creates an atmosphere of spaciousness and comfort, more and more buyers are dismissing the traditional compartmentalised rooms and turning to this more flowing plan.
A modern kitchen
Not only do buyers want kitchens with state-of-the-art appliances, but they are looking for the latest trends, as well. Matte finishes are gaining in popularity since they create a modern look. In addition, such finishes are extremely practical in that they are easy to clean and hide fingerprints and smudges, which is why they’re increasingly being implemented in residential properties. Numerous storage compartments in the kitchen are another trend in residential architecture and a must-have for many homebuyers. A feature that merges stylishness and functionality is a large kitchen island that can be used for cooking, dining, and entertaining guests.
Contemporary house design
While home buying preferences vary, contemporary residential properties that combine modern luxuries with timeless elegance and function are sure to make an impact on any homebuyer. Unlike interior spaces, house design can’t be easily changed, and therefore requires careful consideration and thorough planning. This is why visiting a display home might be a good idea for new homebuyers. It provides a first hands-on experience and it’s very popular in Australia, home to some of the biggest home display villages in the world. For those looking to settle in the coastal metropolis, getting their dream home can be as simple as visiting luxury display homes in Sydney and imagining themselves living in a home with a similar design. If it feels like home from the moment you walk in, you’ll know you’re making the right choice.
Flooring trends
The classic, everlasting trend in residential architecture is hardwood flooring. This is always an attractive option, especially in houses with an open floor plan. Marble floors might seem stylish, but they aren’t a popular solution since they’re cold. On the other hand, cork flooring has become quite popular as it comes in different colours and it’s environmentally friendly. Bamboo is another eco-friendly feature for modern homes that buyers can’t resist. There’s also a notable trend of turning away from wall-to-wall carpeting and embracing smaller carpets that are used sparingly and more as a décor statement.
Storage
Contemporary homes need to be practical, so having enough storage is a must. Pantries, linen closets, and cabinetry in the garage are essential for keeping the home organised and clutter-free. A notable trend in residential architecture are bedrooms with spacious closets and plenty of shelves, hanging spaces, and drawers. Think of a beautiful window seat with a storage compartment – it’s a perfect example of combining functionality with style in contemporary home design.
Outdoor areas
Many contemporary homes have a patio or some other type of outdoor space that can be used for relaxation. The bigger the outdoor area, the better! There is also a demand for homes that merge indoors and outdoors, so many buyers are looking for an “outdoor living room” with indoor furnishing and decoration details.
Big garages
Having a big garage is another important factor that buyers take into consideration. A double car garage will impress anyone, especially if it has some additional space for storage or work. Once again, practicality is one of the key features of the garage design!
Before buying a house, you need to create a checklist of your needs, do thorough research, and hire a reliable agent. With professional help, you can find a perfect home, rather than a satisfactory one.
