The Plan Collection recently released predictions that divulge that 2020 home architectural design is trending to accommodate Americans’ busy, technology-driven culture. This includes more space and conveniences in the kitchen, such as “Prep Pantries” and “Command Centers.” The top five current trends are environmentally conscious with a simplistic and modern design of “Zen-Dens,” flex rooms, high ceilings and open floor plans.
Here are some of The Plan Collection’s 2020 predictions for new home design concepts:
Prep Pantries:
These new spaces are not just for pouring drinks or storing glasses. Depending on the size, these new kitchen spaces are designed to accommodate countertop appliances (microwaves, coffee makers, etc.), sinks, warming ovens and meal prep areas.
This allows for the kitchen itself to continue as an attractive hub for entertaining. Reminiscent of the butler’s pantry, the beauty of the Prep Pantry is that the mess can be hidden from guests for clean-up later simply by closing the door.
Command Centers:
Since large computers are a thing of the past, say goodbye to the computer center or kitchen desk. Command Centers include a plethora of charging stations, convenient ways to hide unsightly charging cords, dedicated space for Amazon Dots, Google Minis and package deliveries, and easy access to iPads or tablets for looking up a recipe or the kids’ school schedule. Until we all have keyless home entry and auto ignitions, there will still be a place in the command center for keys.
“The command center should be centrally located in the home like the kitchen’s ‘household bills desk’ from years past,” said The Plan Collection’s Publishing Director Tim Bakke. “These days, the mudroom or the ‘Drop-Zone’ is the ideal location to allow everyone in the family easy access to chargers, iPads and keys. As technology has evolved, home plans have followed to address the changing lifestyle needs of homeowners.”
Environmentally-Conscious Design:
Eco-houses or eco-homes are environmentally low-impact homes designed and built using materials and technology that reduces its carbon footprint and lowers its energy needs. Once the home plans are determined, environmentally conscious homeowners typically look for the following when building a new home:
- Window-to-wall ratio of less than 30%
- Maximum wall, roof and foundation insulation
- Tight building envelopes so all openings are sealed
- Energy-efficient ventilation, heating and cooling capabilities
- Water-efficient faucets, toilets, appliances and other fixtures
Other Trends:
- High Ceilings: creating an optical illusion, high-ceilings deliver openness and freedom throughout the home, adding a sense of space and depth.
- Flex Spaces: these versatile rooms can be transformed into different types of space depending on the wants and needs of homeowners.
- Open Floor Plans: these enforce togetherness within a home and create more free space and fewer obstacles. They typically include a family room, kitchen and dining space that blend into a large open hub.
- “Zen Dens:” a designated area in a home devoted to expanding one’s self-awareness to experience maximum relaxation. They are sometimes used as a meditation room or a space to practice yoga and – in an open floor plan – a nearby place to “get away” from too much activity.
