Green Living Tops Newest Trends

This year will prove to be an exciting one in the world of home construction, with new materials, new technologies and changes in how we build homes. There is also a shift in how architects are drafting floor plans to reflect the ways in which we are now choosing to live. So what does the future hold?

Green, green and greener. For me, this is perhaps the most exciting trend in the building industry. Green-built homes not only look elegant, but they are comfortable and more economical than past years.

Our homes are also getting healthier. Now, we know more about building products that can literally make you sick. Synthetic materials and chemical additives found in composite wood products such as MDF, flooring materials, glues, plastics and paint, to mention only a few, give off harmful vapours. I am hoping this will be a banner year for organic and natural-based, healthy construction and finishing materials in home construction. The air inside our homes should be the cleanest and safest we breathe. Unfortunately, often it isn't. This year, I'm reminded of the growing number of exotic finishing materials available, such as foreign marbles, onyx, rare stones and exotic granites, special-effect paints, textured glasses, and handcrafted vessels instead of sinks.
 
There is no shortage of creative ideas when it comes to finishing materials. This year you will undoubtedly be asking the host or hostess at many display homes, "What did the builder use in this room?" or "What type of stone is that on that counter top?" or "Where did you find that fabulous light fixture?"
 
Prefabricated construction has matured and is becoming stylish, even with higher-end homes. Expect more builders to support factory-made homes and construction components.
 
If your new home purchase this year is a loft, or a condo converted from an old factory or abandoned warehouse then you are one of the many new home purchasers buying vintage. This trend in taking old dwellings and rebuilding them is not only an eco-friendly concept, but preserves some of our architectural heritage.
 
Architects are designing to suit our changing needs, and this is more prevalent and insightful than ever. Blueprints will reflect the need for flexible spaces. Look for rooms that can be divided — or not — with pocket doors or attractive sliding panels to create versatile open or closed spaces.
 
Speaking of adaptable floor plans, a growing number of two- and three-storey homes will include elevators, allowing us to age at home. We also look forward to wider hallways to accommodate wheelchairs and walkers — smart planning for the inevitable.
 
We will pay more attention to the exterior of our new homes. A strong focus is placed on curb appeal and individuality. Colour plays a major role and will be rich, dark and textured.
 
Past years often saw outdoor spaces and landscaping plans left untouched by the builder. This year, builders and architects take command of interior and exterior rooms, patios and gardens. Outdoor rooms will be incorporated into the home's design. This may include audio and visual equipment, gas fireplaces, full kitchens and bars.
 
The bathroom stands a strong second this year as the most stylish new homes will feature showers with more jets and heads than a carwash, mood light and adjacent dressing spaces.
 
This also will be the year of the "detail," with emphasis on the selection of exotic finishing materials and details that complete a home.
 
One of the most common homeowner complaints has been lack of storage. Look for show homes and blueprints to display fabulous walk-ins from the ensuite dressing rooms and closets.
 
Fully designed garages will have built-in storage and work spaces while craft and storage areas show up in traditionally under-utilized spaces: stairwells, attics and in bonus rooms.
 
Many homes will also include a wine cellar.


Cheryll Gillespie is a nationally syndicated Design and Décor columnist.