Distinctly Designed: Today’s Homes Call for Creative Strategies

Focusing on thoughtful interiors, unique outdoor spaces and striking curb appeal allow builders to attract buyers while holding up value

By Josh Kassing

Builders know all too well the impact of rising costs. Consumers face affordability pressures like never before. It’s no surprise then that demand for building distinctive homes has fallen dramatically under these market conditions. 

The generification of architecture is prevalent as the industry adopts a production mindset and mainstream standardization. Nothing is custom anymore and the hunt for efficiencies appears around every corner.

Still, opportunities to create distinctive homes exist by taking the standard parts and pieces of home construction and elevating them. Builders can move away from customized architectural and floorplan design and focus on creatively outfitting home interiors and outdoor spaces as a smart and economical way to elevate a standard home. Distinctive homes are possible with out-of-the-box thinking coupled with a few successful applications from hospitality. 

High-Impact Interiors

Thoughtful and well-executed interior design has the power to transform interiors into unique spaces that enhance the lives of the people who live in them. Distinctive homes in today’s market require highly adaptable and functional spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also radiate wellness and opportunities for elevated living. 

Understanding the psychographics – the values, opinions, attitudes, interests, lifestyles and aspirations of the people who will live in the space – is essential to early decision-making that then informs exceptional design. Balancing needs for privacy and coming together while building spaces that support an array of day-to-day activities such as working from home, fitness, entertaining and relaxing, also play a vital role in designing on-the-mark interiors. 

Outdoor Homescapes

As people increasingly value unique outdoor spaces, builders can think beyond the traditional garden, yard or patio and build areas that imaginatively extend indoor living activities. Dining, cooking, relaxing, sleeping and even bathing can be taken to the next level to create distinctive outdoor living experiences.

In response to “Coronasomnia,” the increase in sleep problems post-pandemic led to the hospitality industry’s successful boom in sleep tourism. Builders can leverage this trend and consider including outdoor spaces that foster serenity and optimize sleep with private spaces featuring acoustic insulation, climate controls and support AI-controlled mattresses or high-end hammocks.

Incorporating glass walls that seamlessly merge the indoors with the outdoors work effectively in bedrooms as well as bathrooms. Climate permitting, outdoor bathtubs and basins create spa-like environments at home while fitness showers support outdoor workouts. Fresh-air kitchens, dining areas, sun loungers, media centers and no-hassle fire pits bring traditional patios to new levels.

Curb Appeal 

A distinctive home makes a palpable impression when curb appeal is maximized. The exterior is no exception when applying the principles of great design. A striking exterior effectively combines varying elements in the same way the ingredients of a beautiful meal come together. Color, texture, pattern and lighting all play a role. While much of exterior design is DIY, builders can set the stage for success with strategic use of materials. 

Siding and porch materials can reflect the neighborhood’s look and feel while the smaller details create unique points of interest. Doorstep materials such as natural stone or tiles add a pleasing aesthetic. Natural stone use in walkways, borders and garden fillers contributes to a cohesive look.

Front-facing window and door trim along with front entrance door material and hardware selection can cost-effectively enhance visual appeal. Unique entrance light fixtures and landscape lighting that spotlights unique hedges, plantings and gardens can heighten the exterior’s appearance. Including sustainable irrigation systems can support landscape investments with attention to environmental concerns. Ponds and fountains can add another natural component to the yard’s allure and overall exterior look.

By taking advantage of well-designed interiors, expanded outdoor experiences and optimized curb appeal, builders can create distinctive homes that attract buyers, hold values and reflect the special and unique people who will call it home.

Josh Kassing is senior vice president of Mary Cook Associates. He may be reached at jkassing@marycook.com.