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Colorado’s real estate market is one of the hottest in the country, and despite the pandemic-induced market uncertainty, it’s still holding up quite well. Recent reports show that the housing market in the Denver Metro area is taking a turn, and home prices in the region are dropping relative to the other hot markets around the country.
But besides the market dynamics, more interesting architectural trends are shaping the construction, buying, and selling of residential homes in Colorado. Today, homebuyers are very specific with what they want. If they envision an expansive backyard, an outdoor kitchen, or a dedicated laundry room, they won’t settle until they find exactly that.
READ—Colorado is Seeing More Inbound Moves in 2022 Than Most Other States in the U.S.
Whether an investor, resident or a homebuyer moving to Colorado, you’ll notice some obvious architectural trends. Most of these trends are not specific to Colorado but are nationwide trends disrupting the broader residential real estate market. In the sections below, we’ve discussed some 2022 architectural trends evident in the Colorado housing market.
Indoor-Outdoor Design
Indoor-outdoor living spaces are becoming increasingly popular not only in Colorado but all around the world. This trend is characterized by a greater preference for seamless connection and transition from the outdoors to the home interiors. Some main elements of indoor-outdoor designs are outdoor kitchens, dining rooms, and entertainment areas. Others are indoor-outdoor pools and outdoor living rooms fitted with couches, tables, and entertainment sets.
The homes must follow specific design aspects for these transitional spaces to work better. For instance, they should have bigger openings, spacious rooms, and medium & uniform floor levels. Most residential homes that feature indoor-outdoor designs also tend to have a cohesive color scheme with either one or two primary colors. Similarly, the décor choices for these homes complement the indoor and outdoor elements.
More Natural Lighting
Modern architectural masterpieces emphasize natural light, and this trend has been gaining adoption over the last decade. Most homes that provide more natural light come with floor-to-ceiling windows, retractable walls, and skylights. These homes feature reflective objects, natural colors, houseplants, and ample open spaces to enhance the impact of natural light on the interiors.
Besides the distinctive large windows and glass walls, these homes are strategically positioned to maximize the natural light rays and may feature lighter hues and fewer interior walls. That said, most in-demand homes in Colorado are designed to offer more natural lighting, and the trend is getting better.
Heated Flooring Goes Mainstream
Heated floors are some of the hottest trends in residential homes right now. Not only is the cost of installing heated floor systems becoming more affordable, but most homeowners are also willing to incur a premium for a home with this convenience feature. A well-installed heated floor system keeps the home warm and comfortable during the colder months and increases the home’s value in the long run.
The other benefits of heated floor systems include high energy efficiency and easy maintenance. Alternative home heating options like radiators must often maintain a temperature of about 150 degrees Fahrenheit to keep a room warm. On the other hand, a heated floor system only needs a temperature of around 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
Use of Organic and Natural Materials
Residential homes increasingly lean towards organic and natural materials during construction and as décor elements. This trend is primarily driven by consumers’ desire for cleaner, creative and eco-friendly spaces around their homes. Homeowners see natural materials such as wooden structures and stone as healthy, relaxing, and perfect for the environment and body.
Most natural materials are versatile and can be used to match any design or architectural style. Natural stones, for instance, can be used in bathrooms, flooring, countertops, fireplaces, and exterior siding. On the other hand, wood can work perfectly for flooring, cabinets, furniture, and more. More so, these natural materials are applicable for any room, from the bedroom and kitchen to the dining area and patio.
A Focus on Health, Productivity, and Wellbeing
As more people shift to remote work, many are working from their home offices, and these spaces need to be adapted to ensure higher productivity. There’s also a keen focus on health and wellbeing, and homes with fitness rooms and yoga spaces are becoming popular in the residential market.
Today, many in-demand homes feature elegant bathroom designs, high-end saunas, and spas that allow maximum relaxation, body treatments, and facials. Other design elements that enhance health, productivity, and wellbeing include ambient natural lighting, open multipurpose spaces, indoor plants, and efficient airflow.
The Bottom Line
The above trends in residential home design aren’t exhaustive but represent what’s popular in the Colorado real estate market. You can always refer to these trends for informed decision-making as a homebuyer or investor.
A couple of years from now, some of these design trends may become more widespread while others may go out of the market. Whichever the case, it’s crucial to keep up with the trends and adjust your preferences accordingly.
John has been an active member of his real estate community for 12 years now, and is excited to be turning that community focus toward writing about the ins and outs of all things real estate from finding the perfect home to making moving a little less stressful. In his free time John enjoys spending time with his family and playing Pickleball.