What new homes will look like in 2015 – NAHB survey results

A new study by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) reveals that the housing crisis has altered the very course of consumer preferences in what they’re looking for in their next home.

Based on a national annual survey of home builders, they anticipate the average home size to shrink to 2,152 square feet, a full 10% smaller than the average single family home built in 2010.

Where will the square feet be sacrificed? The living room- 30% of builders expect it to disappear completely while 52% expect it to “merge” with other spaces. Foyers and dining rooms are also expected to contract a bit while there lacked a consensus on the size shift in kitchens, bathrooms and bedrooms.

Green features and technology are predicted to be included in homes according to 68% of builders surveyed. Features are projected to include low-E windows, engineered wood beams, joists or tresses, water-efficient features and an Energy Star rating for the entire structure.

“As an overall share of total floor space, 54 percent of builders said the family room is likely to increase,” said Rose Quint, NAHB’s assistant vice president for survey research. “That makes it the only area of the home likely to get bigger.”

According to the NAHB, “The average new home of 2015 is likely to feature a great room comprised of the kitchen, foyer and living room; a walk-in closet in the master bedroom; a laundry room; ceiling fans; a master bedroom on the first floor in homes with two stories; and a two-car garage.”

How do you think new homes will look in 2015 compared to today? Do you agree with the consensus of builders that size will shrink, rooms will combine differently and green features will be more prevalent?