Many first-time home-buyers express an interest in buying modular (or prefabricated) homes. These are not a new concept in the construction industry. But, modern house plans have only recently gained popularity. Technological advancements are a major influence. But the main reason for the rise in interest is due to a few factors. Modern consumers are generally more aware of how their actions impact the environment. So, they want to make a difference by going green. They do so, by adopting more energy-efficient practices.
Further, more architects turn to modular construction when designing modern house plans. Sustainable practices include:
- Reducing material waste and pollution generated by transport
- Energy-efficient building materials
- Solar panel systems
- Creating modern homes that reduce one’s footprint
Read on to discover the hottest trends in the evolving world of contemporary homes.
Expand Your Living Space with a Modular Extension
Modular extensions aka ‘pods’ are a great solution for expanding a home. You may need a garden shed, art studio, DIY workshop or teenage retreat. These help homeowners to increase living space without making structural changes. Built off-site in climate-controlled factory environments, mean these are fast to install. Some only take a few days before they are ready to go.
Include Space-Savvy Solutions
But before you consider extending your home, you should know how to make the most of your existing space. Keeping the space neat and free of clutter is one modern house design trend that will never go away. Consider using a combination of practical storage for decluttering purposes.
Hiding gear from sight also makes rooms look bigger. To save on space, consider built-in shelves and closets. This way, you will take care of your clutter without disrupting the freedom of movement in your home.
Finally, keep spaces refined and polished by camouflaging appliances and homewares. For example, pick a refrigerator colour that matches your kitchen counters and cupboards. Or, use a retractable chopping board built into the counter.
Let the Light In
To enhance the cleanliness and air in a space, bring as much daylight in as possible. Instead of using window treatments that obstruct the view and the sun, leave windows bare. adorned with only some sheer curtains that allow for the light to sneak through. If your space doesn’t get sunlight during the day, get some with overhead ambient LED lighting. Go for a colour that’s as close to natural as possible.
Create an Earthy Atmosphere with a Palette of Neutral Tones
Create a home that feels honest, true and connected. Introduce nature, by using natural and earthy tones in your interior. The colours lack, brown, grey and beige create a balanced look with a homely feel. Neutral tones are also popular because they make spaces appear larger.
Let Rooms Flow into Each Other
There’s no rule that says each room has only one purpose. Try to see potential in all the separate rooms in your home. For instance, a kitchen can also contain a dining area. Remove the need to build a separate dining room. And a home office can double as an entertainment area. Fuse one off a living room. Dual-purpose increase available space and offering convenience.
Look Up to Mid-Century Modern Style
Modern mid-century architecture is gaining popularity. Design is minimalist and marked by clean lines, flat or gabled roofs. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with light. This style is popular when it comes to modern house plan interiors.
For example, consider bringing in accents in retro colours. Think avocado, mustard, and baby pink. Also, use colours on vibrant tiles as a statement in the bathroom. An intricate contemporary pendant will grab attention in the dining room. These tasteful pops of colour can give sleek modern houses personality.
Elements such as peg legs or hardware can add a mid-century modern vibe to your interior. Instead of going for mass-produced (or throwaway) furniture, consider hand-crafted, one-of-a-kind pieces. These give the interior a unique character. Reclaimed wood, bamboo, and eco-smart furniture are great for adding texture. and warmth to a modern interior.
Say Hello to Terrazzo
For all the reasons above Terrazzo is popular. Wall coverings and floors, especially in bathrooms and kitchens are on trend. Terrazzo is a composite material. It’s made up of small pieces of marble, granite, glass, quartz or other material. Then it’s mixed with a polymeric or cementitious binder, or both. It’s great for wet and high-humidity areas as the material is resistant to water damage.
Make a Statement with Large Scale Art
New home designs in 2020 include large scale art covering a statement wall. Or in other words, wall murals, decals, tapestry or large paintings are popular. This works well in interiors with a neutral colour palette and a minimalist design. This big picture art brings a bold but tasteful touch to the space. Make sure that the theme and colours of the art complement the existing style of the space.
