These days, building new homes requires more than just good design and aesthetics. New house construction is about creating spaces that reflect our values, are more comfortable, and better for the environment. From net-zero construction to tiny minimalist homes, the latest home trends are all about your family’s lifestyle. Whether you’re shopping for a new home, renovating your own or creating a new build from scratch, here are some of the biggest trends you need to know for inspiration.

SUSTAINABLE DESIGN

This one has been popular for a long time, but green, or sustainable, design has evolved to include much more than energy-efficient appliances and LED light bulbs. Now, it’s all about making sure everything in your home reduces your carbon footprint and minimizes any impact on the environment. Eco-friendly construction also helps reduce your long-term maintenance costs as an added bonus.

To try the trend yourself, think big and get creative – install solar panels on your roof, choose building materials that don’t require deforestation and upcycle old furniture for decorative elements instead of buying new. Insulated concrete forms are a great first step in building energy-conscious.

DISASTER RESILIENCY

Climate change affects us in so many negative ways, and one of the top concerns is the increase in natural disasters. From wildfires that last for months to major floods that affect entire cities, we now need to prepare for the worst when building our homes.

Switching to disaster-resilient materials is an important first step. Many builders now prefer to use stronger, more energy-efficient materials like insulated concrete forms (ICFs) instead of  traditional materials like wood. ICFs build tornado proof houses and are also incorporated into earthquake house designs too. For example, Nudura ICFs can withstand winds of up to 402 kilometers per hour (equivalent to an F4 tornado) and offer a fire protection rating of up to four hours.

OUTDOOR LIVING

Transform your own backyard for outdoor living. This trend helps you make the most of your existing space and take full advantage of your yard or patio during the summer months.

You can design a full living space outside, complete with a television and comfy couches, as well as a kitchen and refrigerator for entertaining. Consider adding a fireplace or firepit to keep your family warm during a cool night and enjoy the outdoors through spring, fall, and even winter if you’re brave.

HOME AUTOMATION

Home automation through smart technology is increasing in popularity, encompassing more of the house to make life even more comfortable and convenient. From an oven that can be turned on remotely to pre-heat, to skylights that can open and close automatically to create the perfect ambient temperature, there are more ways now than ever to integrate smart home technology into your living space.

You can start small with voice assistant and smart light bulbs and work your way up to a total smart home system that includes home security, temperature controls, and all your electronic devices. 

CUSTOMIZATION

You don’t have to settle for what mass manufacturers decide to build, or what works for everyone else. Creating a home that’s as unique as you are is the latest trend, with custom-built storage and personalized architectural features to make your space stand out. 

You can even go as far as building a custom home that’s suited to your family. Older home demolitions and purchasing land-only properties are becoming more common, allowing you to work with an architect to create exactly what you want with a new build. ICFs for exterior walls can accommodate any design. Check out our modern ICF house plans to see some of the possibilities.