A new year is just around the corner, and with it comes our choice picks for home plans and designs. But we’d rather not call this list our “Best of 2017” because in truth, home plans are so varied and so unique to each design and each homeowner that to mention all the great ones, we’d need a bit more space on the page.
“And that’s a good thing,” said Rick McAlexander, CEO of Associated Designs Inc. in Eugene, Ore. “We’ve got so many great home designs that it’s no surprise homeowners spend hours searching for that perfect home with all the right features and all the trendy amenities.”
Of course, there are home designs that are memorable, epitomizing a unique layout, modern features and style trends that get us excited. From small floor plans packed with design features to vaulted living spaces, social kitchens and three-car garages, 2017 house plan trends have taken home buying to a whole new level. So, as we make way for the New Year, we look back at a few homes we love and the design trends that make them special.
Small But Mighty
At first glance, this 1,963-square-foot Craftsman cottage may seem not to have it all – but remember to never judge a book (or home) by its cover. A mix of natural materials across the front of the Brookstone (31-066) creates a charming and welcoming outdoor atmosphere, but it’s the inside that will surprise you. It’s a classic example of a common trend in 2017 to think small but carry a lot of space.
“Now here is a home trend that really packs a lot without getting too crowded,” said McAlexander. “With three bedrooms and three full baths, the Brookstone is deceptive in its greatness.”
Immediately to the left of the entry is a hallway that leads to a generous guest suite with full private bathroom and walk-in closet. Nearby is another bedroom and another full bath. At the end of the entry, the hall opens up into the great room, large C-shaped kitchen and dining room – a near perfect setup for socializing, entertaining or just relaxing with friends. The owners’ suite is separate from the other bedrooms and features a walk-in closet and roomy bathroom.
And lest you think that this home doesn’t retain its cozy, cottage style, a gas fireplace brings a touch of warming comfort. There’s also easy access to attic storage, a large two-car garage and a utility room.
Utility and Flexibility
A common trend in home plans and design in 2017 was the desire for flex space and functional utility rooms. Combined with vaulted living spaces and an open great room, the Barrington (31-058) is a classic example of this trend.
“Flex space can come in many forms,” said McAlexander. “Whether it’s a bonus room above the garage, a den near the entryway, or a simple storage room off the garage or in the basement, flexibility is a major factor for many homebuyers.”
Boasting clean lines and lots of natural light, the Barrington is a handsome, country-style home with 2,150 square feet of pleasing lines, luxurious features and vaulted style. In fact, several rooms in the house boast vaulted ceilings including a bedroom and the great room. The great room living space makes this home design perfect for growing families or homeowners who love to entertain, but it also includes a den and bonus room above the garage. Both spaces can be adapted to fit the changing needs of families, whether it’s office space, a playroom or a guest room. Just off the garage is a generous utility room with mudroom space, too, so there’s really no end to what this home can do for you. It adapts with you.
Classic Meets Modern
For many homeowners, a classic country-style home needs a little upgrade on the inside, and that’s what this trend is really all about. The charming exterior with wrap-around front porch belies the modern features and aesthetics of the interior in the Hayden (30-981). This 1,786-square-foot home is a great home for a young family or those looking to downsize because it blends the country with the modern in a seamless and timeless way.
A vaulted great room, for example, features a woodstove rather than a fireplace. A utility room off the kitchen also has a walk-in pantry, but both are separated from the kitchen and dining room by a pocket door. The social kitchen with its peninsular eating bar is indicative of modern homes, flowing from the dining room and into the great room with ease. In other words, it won’t be hard to entertain in this home! And to top it all off, the three bedrooms in the home fill the right side with an ample hallway between them. A vaulted owners’ suite adds a touch of modern luxury with private bathroom and walk-in closet. A study nook in the hallway is just another way the modern blends with the classic in the Hayden.
“The Hayden, like the Brookstone, is deceptive in its size because it really packs a lot in without being overwhelming,” said McAlexander. “But it’s the mix of modern and country that really set it apart. You get it all but don’t sacrifice on style.”
Clever Detached Garages
Enhancing properties with detached garages is one thing, but taking that garage and making into an extra living space is quite another. For many homeowners in 2017, this detached garage concept was a major plus and a common home design trend. And with that trend comes plans to match that showcase the utility factor of the garage as well as the style and comfort of a guesthouse. It’s essentially another house on the same property, and that’s pretty clever.
“Any property that can be enriched with additional storage or garage space is a great thing, but to take that and make it into living space as well is a huge win,” said McAlexander. “The options are endless when a detached garage comes into play because you can rent out the living space, use it for visitors and guests, or make it your own.”
This three-car detached garage with living space (20-199) exemplifies this concept and then goes one step further. The garage itself has ample amount of space for storage, garden tools, and your favorite gadgets. But above the garage is a vaulted great room, private bedroom, and bathroom that can be accessed from the garage or from the separate entrance. A vaulted kitchen opens up into the great room for a touch of luxury. There’s also space for a stacking washer and dryer with a small pantry in the hallway.
Another example of a detached garage with living space plays with a farmhouse exterior and country interior (20-189). This garage boasts a guest studio space on the second floor with luxury features including a wood stove, kitchenette and full bathroom. The space can adapt to the needs of the owners – whether it’s a guest room, rental unit, or a separate living space for the college-aged teen in the family.
