COVER STORY
THE EVOLUTION OF HOME LIVING:
From to
By Michelle McCann The world of real estate is always evolving, with home amenities reflecting not only the trends of their time but also the lifestyle preferences of homeowners. The homes of tomorrow will be reflections of the evolving needs of their residents. Here are a few historical indoor and outdoor trends of home living and a glimpse into the ongoing evolution of the home environment.
Interior Styles Through the Ages
Future-Forward Interiors
1. Classic Elegance (19th Century - Early 20th Century):
1. Eco-Conscious:
Historically, homes were constructed with decorative detailing, high ceilings, and elaborate woodwork. Inspired by European architecture, chandeliers, grand staircases, and rich upholstery were common statement pieces and symbols of luxury. Formal living and dining spaces were also a hallmark of this era, reflecting societal values centered around tradition and formality.
Sustainability will have a significant impact on the future of home interiors. Eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient appliances, and designs that use natural light are gaining popularity. Homes will feature high-performance windows that are oriented to capture or avoid the sun’s heat, landscaping and shading designed to naturally control temperature, renewable sources for generating energy, home appliances that monitor energy consumption, and water conservation systems. Homeowners are prioritizing environmentally conscious choices, creating spaces that not only look beautiful but also minimize their ecological footprint.
2. Mid-Century Modern (1940s-1960s):
2. AI Integration:
This era saw a shift towards simplicity and functionality. Mid-century modern homes embraced open floor plans, large windows, and a connection to the outdoors. Clean lines, minimalist designs, iconic furniture pieces, and a focus on bringing nature indoors defined this period.
Artificial intelligence will play a significant role in the future of smart homes, with learning algorithms capable of understanding the habits and patterns of occupants to optimize energy usage and enhance comfort. Homes might learn daily routines, automatically adjusting the temperature, lighting, or music based on the time of day or routine activities. Facial-recognition-based security systems, voice-activated virtual assistants, and electric vehicle charging stations will all become standard features.
3. Smart Living (2000s-Present): 3. Wellness-Centric: Driven by the advancement in technology, the 21st century brought an increase in digital tools, interactive elements, and smart technology within homes. Smart home amenities like programmable thermostats, integrated entertainment systems, and automated lighting became increasingly popular. Kitchens evolved into high-tech hubs, with state-of-the-art appliances and connectivity. 24
JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2024
OC REALTOR®
The future home will incorporate wellness amenities such as meditation spaces, indoor gardens, green walls, multi-sensory experiences like the sounds and smells of nature, and advanced air purification systems into its design. Turning home spaces into sanctuaries that promote physical and mental health will be one of the major factors affecting new design trends. Amenities such as home gyms, spa-inspired bathrooms, and lighting technology that works with one’s circadian rhythms are emerging as coveted features for health-conscious homeowners.
