After years of touting grays, beiges and greiges, design pundits are encouraging homeowners to embrace vibrant hues and lively patterns. The trick is doing it right.

Key Takeaways:

• Homeowners are craving change and individuality, which means patterns and colors are making a bold comeback.
• Keep things simple, with one pattern as the “star” and other patterns and colors as supporting “actors.”
• Don’t be afraid to go bold. After all, that’s what patterns and colors were made for.

Neutral, solid colors have dominated interiors for years. Countertops, backsplashes, floors, walls, ceilings and upholstery boasted blocks of beige and myriad gray hues. Things are changing though. Many homeowners are eager to punch up their surroundings and go bold.

In addition to the now-tired, spa-inspired palettes of recent years, other reasons explain the current move toward exuberance. For starters, homeowners crave a change after the past two years. “Pattern adds excitement, personality and energy, and keeps a room from looking flat,” says designer Rebecca Pogonitz of GoGo Design Group. The same can be said for the effect of vibrant color. Also, homeowners nowadays have less concern for what future buyers will think. “I tell my clients to design for yourself and enjoy your space rather than for the person who may live there next,” says designer Dane Austin of Dane Austin Design (@daneaustindesign(link is external)). And just like less concern, there are also fewer rules about mixing motifs like stripes and plaid and colors on a room’s surfaces.

Finally, technological breakthroughs combine visual appeal and minimal maintenance. For instance, “performance” wallpapers and fabrics are easier to clean, says designer Marina Case of The Red Shutters. Larger digital printers allow bigger-scale designs to be manufactured, says Tom Segal of Kaufman Segal Design.

Synthetic quartz has bolder “veining” that conceals stains and scratches, says designer Jacob Laws of Jacob Laws Interior Design. And wallpaper thickness has increased, which reduces tearing when hung and removed, says DeAnna Hain, executive vice president, marketing, of York Wallcoverings.

In using patterns and bold patterns today, the biggest decisions are how to choose from a vast array of options and mix them deftly. The finished look should appear fresh rather than dated. Design experts offer these tips to share with clients.

Be Bold, But Don’t Overdo It

While more than one pattern and a few bold colors can visually work well in the same space, designer Jodi Swartz of KitchenVisions recommends keeping the mix to one bold pattern. Consider which pattern will operate as the star of the show, and use other patterns and colors as supporting characters, says Austin and Laws.

Hain suggests limiting the number of patterns to three. For those who may be timid, Swartz recommends starting with a classic herringbone or another subtle pattern in a single room such as a bedroom or dining room rather than covering a wide swath of shared space.

Balance the Scale

Homeowners who like the look of mixing different patterns might consider one oversized design and others on a smaller scale, says Laws. He now favors paisley patterns with a large 2½-inch repeat, rather than the tiny paisleys of prior generations. Designer Tineke Triggs of Tineke Triggs Interiors likes to mix florals with geometrics, which she says is like pairing a plaid shirt with a floral skirt. Pogonitz combines large-scale trellis or chevron patterns with smaller circular designs. Designer Suzan Wemlinger of Suzan J Designs, Decorating Den Interiors, offers a similar strategy: “If you like using florals, add in some curves or other geometrical patterns.”

The key is not to repeat too many similar patterns. “Too much of one thing can be just too much,” Hain says. The same or related colors can act as a common denominator to tie together the variety, Pogonitz says.

Contrast with Color

While some rooms might be unified by the same color in different areas, at other times some “clash is your friend,” says James Greenwood, brand and interior expert at wallpaper manufacturer Graham & Brown. As an example, he points to his company’s Jardin Magenta design, which contrasts monotone floral etchings and a magenta ground or field.

Kati Baker, partner and luxury home staging specialist at Downtown Realty Company, says, “A great place to go bold is your powder room bathroom. This is a small space where you can show off using bold paint color or a fun wallpaper. It’s not a huge commitment.”

Offset Patterns with Solids and Classics

Solids aren’t totally passé. They offer a way to rest the eye and play up contrast. Baker likes to accent big solid-colored furnishings with patterned rugs, decorative pillows, and blankets. She adds, “Striped patterns are always classic and can balance out another pattern (i.e., a floral).” Another way to help avoid dating a room, Triggs says, is to pepper in some classic furnishings such as a mid-century Mies van der Rohe Barcelona chair or Vladimir Kagan sofa.

Don’t Forget Texture and Novel Shapes

Texture—in wallcoverings, rugs, pillows and backsplash tiles—adds another dimension to a well-designed space, says Hain. Laws likes to use ombre-dyed hand-knotted silk. Segal uses backsplash tiles with metal inserts. Baker loves grasscloth wallpaper, which, she says, is “classic, versatile, comes in many colors and adds depth to a room.”

Consider the Exterior

The outside of a house offers added surfaces where color, texture and pattern can be introduced. Jackie Mosher, COO and partner at Dzinly, an online design resource, recommends three to five complementary colors or materials in large cladding areas.

Color expert Amy Wax, founder of the Color911 app, doesn’t like to limit the number of colors but instead makes decisions based on a homeowner’s goal—whether they want an understated, elegant exterior or one that’s bold and outgoing. Overall, she finds more homeowners comfortable using color to make a statement and give their house a personal identity or say something visually about who lives inside.

Remember: Nothing Is Forever

Changing designs may not be inexpensive but it’s not impossible when the next trend appears or homeowners tire of a look. Even removing wallpaper—once a laborious task—has become easier, says Hain. “We studied how to make them release better from a wall and implemented a combination of paste and paper that make removal stress free,” she says. Another option? Skip the wallpaper altogether. Use elements that are easier to switch out such as pillows, lamps and accessories to add pattern and color.

Image by LEEROY Agency from Pixabay

©National Association of REALTORS®
Reprinted with permission

A new home design movement prioritizes property features that are meant to raise the lifestyle of your four-legged sidekick.

Who’s the house for—you or your dog?

Americans are so devoted to their pets that most say they’d pass on their dream home if it didn’t suit their four-legged sidekick, according to a recent realtor.com® survey(link is external). So, it’s no surprise that pet-friendly property features, like a fenced-in yard with a dog run or a “catio,” are rising to the top of home buyers’ wish lists. The trend toward pet consciousness is sparking a new home design movement called “barkitecture.”

All about incorporating more pet-friendly features throughout the home, the barkitecture concept can add value and interest to a property and perhaps improve the odds of a sale. After all, 43% of households in 2020 indicated they’d be willing to move to better meet their pets’ needs, according to National Association of REALTORS® data. Caroline Danielson, director of showrooms at Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery, recently spoke to REALTOR® Magazine about the barkitecture features that are popping up in more homes.

Q: What is ‘barkitecture,’ and does it have staying power?

Danielson: Barkitecture is an evolving term that encompasses innovative ideas to create comfortable and stylish spaces for humans and their four-legged friends. Originally used to describe the design and construction of dog houses and other structures specifically for dogs, the trend today has grown popular due to its ability to incorporate practical elements of pet ownership into the design of kitchens and bathrooms that both humans and dogs can enjoy. Barkitecture is here to stay due to growing demand among pet owners who view their animals as true family members. They are willing to invest in ensuring that every part of their home reflects this sentiment.

What type of pet-friendly home features are buyers prioritizing?

One of the most popular pet-friendly design features is adding a dog wash station in the mudroom. This feature makes it easier and less messy to give the pup a quick bath after an outdoor adventure.

A dog wash station typically consists of a faucet with a flexible hose attachment and an elevated platform, providing easy step-in and step-out tub access to the pup. Installing a handheld showerhead and using a tiled area with a drain helps pet owners clean up muddy paws with ease while limiting messes and tracking water around the house.

Positioning this station near a home’s entrance makes it quick and easy for everyone to clean up before coming in. Plus, having a designated spot can make washing your dog much simpler. Throw in some toys or treats so that they look forward to baths!

The other popular trend is installing hidden food and watering stations, which offers numerous benefits for pets and their human owners. They make feeding time much easier by creating an organized system that is convenient to use. Many of these built-in feeding stations are incorporated into the kitchen island, including a pot-filler faucet for the pet’s water bowl. These stations can help keep bowls off the floor to avoid spills or messes while also providing an aesthetically pleasing solution that doesn’t compromise style or decor. These stations are immensely helpful for house-training puppies who need frequent access to water throughout the day. All in all, this is a great way for pet owners to combine both form and function in one convenient feature.

Additionally, homeowners who serve fresh foods or subscribe to a food delivery service for pets can install an under-counter refrigerator dedicated to Fido’s culinary delights. For those foods or treats that do not require refrigeration, kitchen cabinetry is a great place to hide or recess food storage compartments.

What’s even better is that any homeowner can incorporate barkitecture. Homeowners no longer need a dedicated mudroom or expensive renovations to make their homes more inviting for their furry friends. With a few simple changes and the addition of some special touches, any homeowner can create a space that both they and their pets will enjoy. One example could be installing a specially designed grooming hand shower and attachments in your existing tub or shower. A dog-friendly hand shower and attachments can create a luxurious and inviting environment for humans and pets alike without a ton of extra work or space.

What are the most unique barkitecture renovations you’ve seen?

We’ve seen some incredible barkitecture projects, both simple and complex, from converting a pantry into a luxurious pet lounge with fun wallpaper to crates built into cabinetry and custom-made furniture pieces. These unique renovations can seamlessly tie into existing decor, and they truly reflect the style and personality of the homeowner and pup.

There are so many unique and creative solutions out there. As this trend continues to grow in popularity, we’re excited to see what new ideas designers and homeowners dream of to make their homes more welcoming for their pets.

Image by OpenClipart-Vectors from Pixabay

©National Association of REALTORS®
Reprinted with permission

Whether selling or staying put, most homeowners could benefit from a little decluttering.

Key Takeaways:

• Share with sellers the financial advantage of only taking with them what they’ll use.
• Explain how breaking down the process into smaller tasks can lighten the stress load.
• Offer ideas on how to dispose of belongings by selling, donating or sharing.

Decluttering makes moving easier for everyone—and less costly, too. It is also helpful for those who want to live more simply in their current residence. In fact, homeowners who have less clutter and are more intentional about what they bring into their space find that a positive for both their mental and financial health.

Many saw the wisdom of doing so during the pandemic when they were stuck at home, looked around, and wondered: Why do I have all this stuff that I never use?

Now, in the dead of winter when many again are indoors for long stretches, can be a good time to encourage clients to begin. Advise them to think of it as an adventure they pursue gradually rather than feel pressure to tackle all at once.

Truly effective—and lasting—decluttering represents a multistep process that varies according to each person’s situation. Those who have inherited a roomful of brown furniture from the 1950s and ‘60s and stacks of books, photo albums, crystal, and more may feel overwhelmed if they don’t want or can’t fit these furnishings into their home or apartment or find consignment shops interested in selling pieces, often because they have so much that’s similar from others hoping to unload possessions.

The following toolbox is offered up as a resource so that anyone can get started on their decluttering journey.

Share What Experts Advise

Marie Kondo became a world-touted expert on the benefits of decluttering with her first book, The Life-changing Magic of Tidying Up. It extolled the virtues of owning fewer belongings to have more space to display belongings that spark joy. Kondo went on to write more books, including one for children(link is external), and developed two Netflix series, “Tidying Up with Marie Kondo” and “Sparking Joy with Marie Kondo.” She also opened an online store, KonMari, and started a certified-consultant training business(link is external).

If the Marie Kondo method doesn’t quite spark joy, there are alternatives, such as the “Swedish Death Cleaning,” which involves getting rid of anything not needed, in order to relieve others of the task of discarding a loved one’s possessions after they’ve died. Margareta Magnusson, author of The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning: How to Make Your Loved Ones’ Lives More Pleasant, says the practice offers an underlying message of caring for our heirs.

For those who want more than decluttering and are interested in a minimalist lifestyle, resources(link is external) abound as well.

Cheer On the Downsizers

Decluttering, even if moving isn’t on the immediate radar, is a great idea for many reasons. First, you never know when a move might be necessary. An intentional approach to decluttering well before moving ever becomes a question takes a lot of stress out of the moving process when it finally happens. Doing so can save time packing, slash moving costs and help reduce the amount of new living space someone might require. Even before it’s time to move, there’s the listing process to think about. Decluttered settings help present a better visual, which helps maximize sales, says Christopher Matos-Rogers, AHWD, GREEN, associate broker with Coldwell Banker Realty in Atlanta. 

While many find it tempting to put off the difficult decisions about what to keep and what to toss until after they move, gently explain the wisdom of being realistic about what can fit in their new home, says Barry Izsak, an Austin, Texas-based moving and relocation expert and founder of PackingMovingUnpacking, an online service(link is external) that helps those moving find movers in their area. “This is especially important for those moving long distances.,” he says. “Remind these clients about their new climate. They might be able to ditch most of their winter clothing and that snow blower, too,” he says.

Know When to Suggest Professional Help

Homeowners who can’t handle the task on their own should consider hiring a certified member of the National Association of Professional Organizers or the National Association of Specialty and Senior Move Managers, ideally a professional with years of experience, says Izsak. As a former president of NAPO, Izsak says the national hourly rate professionals typically charged ranges between $50 and $100, depending in part on their locale.

Rhea Becker—who, as the Clutter Queen(link is external), offers organizing services for homes and offices in Boston—says many of her clients appreciate how professionals speed up the process by keeping them focused on maximizing profits and avoiding digressions over each object’s history. “With a professional, you have the best chance to cut the time and get some money on the table since they know what will sell,” she says.

Group Items Into Categories

Whether your clients decide to bring in a professional or go it alone, it helps to have them categorize each item in a given part of their home into one of five groupings: keep, store, sell, donate or toss. Izsak says the litmus test he uses and shares with clients is to save an object only if it fits one of these three criteria: It’s useful, beautiful or loved. Becker suggests homeowners snap photos of favorite items that are difficult to part with to give them a visual memory they can retain rather than keeping the item itself. Here’s specific help you can offer them for each pile:

Sell

Midcentury modern furniture and contemporary art both appeal widely to buyers of all ages, especially if they’re of good quality and in decent condition. Create a list of estate sales specialists and consignment shops in your area that are known for fair dealing. However, be aware that many services that do the work of selling take a big cut, often half the sales price. If your clients are inclined to try to sell items themselves, suggest they try eBay for the best prices. However, if they’re not willing to go through the trouble of shipping sold items, encourage them to post goods on local online sites, such as neighborhood Facebook groups or Craigslist.

Donate

Remember the adage, “One person’s trash is another’s treasure.” Suggest to older clients that they first ask their children to claim beloved items from their childhood. Becker says it’s important to set a time limit for those who are interested to pick up what they want. Donations is another area where you can be a hero by compiling a list of trustworthy sources in your neighborhood for your clients. Take note of what charities will accept and when, and even which ones will pick up donations, saving your clients time and hassle. Some charities have gotten choosier about what they accept. For instance, many won’t take mattresses, box springs, pillow cases, or sheets. Real estate salesperson Christopher Flores with Keller Williams Larchmont in Los Angeles suggests a local halfway house that helps troubled young adults stabilize their lives as a great destination for used goods. “That way, they provide furniture and clothing they don’t need to those who may have nothing,” he says. Remind sellers that they may be able to secure a tax donation from the IRS if they contribute to a qualified tax-exempt organization(link is external). Because of recent changes in the tax code, it’s best for clients to keep detailed notes of what they donate and to consult their tax adviser for the exact percentages they will be able to write off.

Toss

Clients may save themselves some work by calling a local trash-hauling company or 1-800-GOT-JUNK(link is external), a REALTOR Benefits® partner, which operates nationwide. Have information on pricing and what haulers won’t take on hand. Homeowners can also consult HomeAdvisor’s list of trash-hauling service providers by ZIP code. Also, it’s important to be aware of laws governing trash. Some municipalities allow homeowners to leave stuff by the curb with a sign that reads, “please take me,” while others levy fines for such activity. A more organized version of this idea comes in the form of local Freecycle(link is external) chapters, part of a grassroots nonprofit where local people post stuff for free pickup in their own towns to help keep usable goods out of landfills.

Store Off-Site

It may be tempting to store certain household items off-site, and one in three Americans do, according to StorageCafe(link is external). There are numerous reasons why. Aside from apartments getting smaller, people are unwilling to part with stuff permanently. The pandemic required a bit of a shuffle as well, requiring work-from-home space that didn’t exist previously. Some families moved in with one another and needed a place for the extra stuff.

Picking self-storage requires homework. Advise clients to consider units that are locked, insured and climate-controlled and that offer access whenever they want. Prices can vary widely. Also remind clients that self-storage isn’t a great long-term solution, as months can extend into years and beyond. “Often storage is a matter of postponing the inevitable. It’s better to get rid of whatever you don’t need,” Izsak says. “If you know you’re storing something for a granddaughter who will use it in a year, that makes sense. Otherwise, get rid of it now!”

Image by Andreas Lischka from Pixabay

©National Association of REALTORS®
Reprinted with permission

If you’re in a cold-weather climate, don’t let the winter blues bring down your listing’s curb appeal. Jackie Mosher, co-founder of Dzinly, a company that provides designer-approved digital exterior designs for inspiration, offers a few tips for sprucing up the outside.

Brighten the Front Door

“Even just a fresh paint coat of the existing color can sometimes do the trick,” Mosher says. Or give it a new color. For a cohesive look, paint the door a shade darker or lighter than the home’s exterior color. For a bolder statement, use the color wheel, choosing a color the opposite of the home’s main color. For example, if the home is mostly brown, give the front door its complementary color—dark blue.

Add Flower Boxes

In winter, try cold-friendly plants such as pansies, flowering cabbages and kales, and ferns. Layer the height of the arrangements with up to three different plant varieties, Mosher suggests. Whatever the season, greenery and flowers along your windows dress up the home’s architecture and “add interest, dimension and personality,” she says.

Swap Out the Lighting

If there’s room, add a hanging pendant or chandelier above the front door. Mosher suggests picking a fixture that’s about one-third or one-fourth the size of the front door (including the trim). Or, update the carriage lights beside the door. Boxed lanterns in a black or antique bronze finish are a nice touch, she says.

Supersize the Address Numbers

Large, sleek black numbers can add a modern vibe to a home. “These can become a focal point,” Mosher says, citing modernhousenumbers.com as her favorite site for inspiration.

Image by JamesDeMers from Pixabay

©National Association of REALTORS®
Reprinted with permission

Go bold in your home! Brighter color combos and loud wallpaper designs are dressing up interiors, but this attention-grabbing trend is being mixed with toned-down natural materials and accents. Houzz, a home renovation and design website, offers its predictions for the home styles likely to have a big impact this year.

1. Keep It Natural

Homeowners are rethinking synthetic materials like engineered quartz, which has dominated kitchen renovations in recent years. Instead, owners are gravitating toward natural materials that they believe add more character and authenticity to a space, Houzz notes. More designers report installing quartzite and other natural stone countertops, as well as marble tile and wood cabinets and vanities—notably in white oak.

2. Curbless Showers

Showers are getting softer edges. For example, designers may run mosaic tile flooring continuously through the entire bathroom, including the curbless shower area. “This approach further enhances the sleek, streamlined effect of a curbless shower design, extends the nonslip surface and helps a small space appear larger than it is,” Houzz notes.

3. Bathrooms Go Black

Though all-white bathroom finishes remain popular, more homeowners are incorporating hints of dark, contrasting colors. For example, 7% of homeowners installed blue vanities, according to the 2022 U.S. Houzz Bathroom Trends Study. Jet black vanities and other black bathroom accents—set against crisp, white backdrops—also are trending. “The white finishes keep things light and airy, while the black creates a touch of drama,” the Houzz report notes. “Brass details and wood-look tile flooring help add warmth to this classic palette.”

4. Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Connections

Homeowners have been craving greater ties to their outdoor spaces: 20% have renovated their kitchens to open it more to the outside, according to the 2022 U.S. Houzz Kitchen Trends Study. Sliding glass doors are among the top features on home buyers’ wish lists, as well as large windows to maximize outdoor views and bring in more natural light. Further, a focus on natural materials and colors, as well as nature-themed wallpaper prints, is helping homeowners feel connected to the outdoors.

5. Modern, Rustic Living Rooms

In living rooms, natural materials are dominating, too. This is prompting a modern rustic style that channels both a rugged and cozy look. “Natural stone fireplaces and surrounds, wood beams and off-white walls mix with comfortable furnishings in organic whites, browns and beiges to create an updated look that feels anchored to a rural past,” Houzz notes.

6. Color Pops Everywhere

Bright and bold colors are one of interior designers’ favorite emerging trends. “The shift away from mostly neutrals and whites is something many pros attribute to the pandemic,” Houzz notes. “These days, homeowners seem more adventurous and willing to take a chance on creating brighter, more vibrant spaces.” To help achieve these more colorful backdrops, owners are turning to wallpaper and embracing eclectic patterns. Houzz data shows searches are up for “paintable wallpaper” (93%), “chinoiserie wallpaper” (71%), “floral wallpaper” (52%), “ceiling wallpaper” (40%), “Art Deco wallpaper” (33%) and “dog wallpaper” (46%).

7. Warm, Relaxing Kitchens

While design pros say a desire for bold color is extending into kitchens, they also say more homeowners are asking for a warm and soft style that’s restful and relaxing. To pull off this look, they’re using greige or off-white cabinets, light woods, muted tile, subdued patterns and warm bronze and brass finishes in the kitchen.

8. Layers of Texture

“Layered texture” is buzzing in home design. Textures are being added throughout a home via the decor, wallpaper, materials and accessories. “We’re seeing a lot of designers layer wood, rattan, stone, metal finishes, concrete and various textural fabrics in one room to create a dynamic style that’s full of visual and tactile interest,” Houzz notes.

9. Traditional With a Twist

From brighter colors to wild wallpaper and layered looks, maximalist decor styles are taking hold. For instance, combine “vintage pieces with lots of upbeat pattern and wall coverings” to perk up a traditional look, Houzz notes. “Think of it as a traditional style returning in a fun way.” Some professionals say ongoing supply chain issues gave rise to this trend by forcing homeowners to look locally for antiques and recycle, repurpose or reupholster pieces “with whimsical details and a pretty patina.”

10. Island Seating

Kitchen islands are being made with seating top of mind. “While the traditional seating arrangement has typically been a row of stools on one side facing the cooking area, some homeowners on Houzz are seeking alternative setups to accommodate a variety of needs, such as the ability to sit face-to-face with guests or sit at a standard dining table height,” Houzz notes. “We’re seeing a lot of islands with creative seating arrangements, like two-tiered designs with seating for 10 people and dropped-down or raised-up areas for various needs.”

©National Association of REALTORS®
Reprinted with permission

On the multifamily front, high costs and a greater concern for the environment are spurring efforts to cut construction time and expense while increasing sustainability.

Three Key Takeaways

• Mass timber products save construction time because of its prefabrication.
• The materials sequester carbon rather than emit it as concrete and steel do.
• Wood exposed on the interior provides a biophilic effect, a boon to aesthetics and healthfulness.

In the multifamily space, the need for new building processes and materials and the possibility of paring construction and labor costs are generating a buzz. This is especially true as rising costs and inflation, labor shortages and an increased concern for the environment continue to impact the industry.

Among a few, one solution, mass timber, stands out as a viable option that could help alleviate builder woes. The “large pre-manufactured, multilayered, solid wood panels” check many of the boxes for developers, according to the American Wood Council. They’re fire resistant, strong, sustainable and reduce construction and labor costs.

Though it took a while to gain traction in the United States, the use of mass timber is on the rise, which means more real estate clients might make the choice to live in a building with this construction.

The Emergence of Prefabricated Wood

Wood has long been used to construct multifamily residential and commercial buildings, but in the 1800s and 1900s, concrete and steel replaced it in many cases. The reason? So buildings could rise higher. European architects and builders focused again on wood as a smart, renewable environmental choice that could take carbon from the air and sequester it versus concrete and steel that emit it, says architect Zac Miles, AIA, with architecture firm KTGY.

In factories overseas, Europeans were first to engineer mass timber pieces into large wood panels for floors and walls, and they attached them through cross-laminated timber layers (CLT), nail laminated timber (NLT), or dowel laminated timber (DLT), says Dan Getz, structures global practice director at global design firm HKS architects. These prefabricated panels provide strength comparable to concrete and steel floor systems and got the code approval go-ahead for use in buildings taller than those constructed from non-engineered wood members, Getz says.

Interest in the U.S. developed slower due to resistance because of building codes that capped heights at six stories and fear of fire. Still, several developers, including architect Jason Korb and his company, Korb + Associates Architects, pushed the envelope and sought approval through variances from local authorities or by showing that their designs would perform successfully. “In all building codes, there’s a paragraph that says the purpose is not to stifle innovation but allow the applicant to proceed if it can prove equivalencies through third-party testing for fire safety. We did that,” he says.

In 2016, the seven-story T3 Minneapolis office building became the tallest U.S. mass timber structure, followed two years later by the 12-story condo complex Carbon 12 in Portland, Ore. Ascent at 284 feet was next, approved despite going higher than the code limit because it met performance tests, Korb says.

Around the same time, the International Code Council (ICC) approved proposals that would allow other mass timber buildings to go up to nine, 12 or 18 stories as part of its 2021 International Building Code (IBC).

Volatility in lumber and resin prices due to the pandemic, bad weather where plants were located, and other challenges caused some issues in 2021. “Supply chain disruptions caused a step backward,” says Christian Beard, director of building products research at John Burns Real Estate Consulting. Once prices stabilized, however, interest was reignited, he says.

Already 1,571 residential and commercial multifamily mass timber buildings have been constructed, according to WoodWorks, a nonprofit that tracks these numbers and provides education and other support related to U.S. wood buildings, says Bill Parsons, chief operating officer. Almost 200 are under development with the majority in the seven to 12-story range and designed for multifamily housing. While there were once few factories in North America, the domestic numbers are increasing, says architect Susan Jones, FAIA founding architect of atelierjones LLC. Among her current projects is the eight-story Heartwood building in Seattle for the nonprofit Community Roots Housing. Jones and others point out that tall wood, mass timber buildings will appeal more to others as their benefits are recognized:

Shorter Timetables and Lower Costs

Because these buildings are comprised of prefabricated members, construction time is less, and labor costs are lower. Korb estimates the installation time for Ascent was cut by one quarter versus other construction. The project also required a crew of 11 versus a typical team of 40 for a comparable concrete building. The shorter time cycle also means that these buildings generally get to market and into the revenue stream faster, says architect Rockland Berg, AIA, NCARB, principal and director of business development at the Dallas-based architecture firm, three. This appeals to developers watching timelines because of higher interest rates, says Vaughan Buckley, CEO of Volumetric Building Companies, a vertically integrated volumetric modular construction technology company. To boot, work at sites to lift panels is also quieter, Jones says.

Developer Jeff Klotz, CEO of The Klotz Group of Companies, who has built wood-framed garden-style apartments, now uses factory-built panels more since they allow for continuous work with few weather delays.

The industry has had to adapt to the faster building process, though. “You don’t have six months in most cases to decide where to place a light switch,” says Buckley. Architect Jonathan Delcambre, managing partner for BKV Group in Dallas adds, “Everyone on the team has to work on a faster track to keep up the pace.”

Better Quality Control and Savings on Materials… Maybe

Because of factory fabrication, which uses a digital building process, problems are typically resolved before installation, which is a boon to builders.

Of course, as a commodity like any other, the cost of mass timber fluctuates. “Over the last three years, there’s been a roller coaster with building material prices, including the costs of wood, resins, and other materials,” Getz says. Rather than focusing on the cost of materials, though, Getz recommends a wide-lensed view.

“It’s better to look at the holistic cost. Mass timber framing might be more expensive, but one might not need as many finishes, have lighter foundations, and have a shorter construction schedule with its prefabricated efficiency,” he says.

Also, today’s lumber is at pre-pandemic pricing and it’s readily available, Klotz says. Also, foundations are generally lighter with wood than with steel and concrete structures, often at a lower cost, Berg says.  

Environmental and Climate Advantages

Mass timber presents a lower embodied carbon footprint and reduces off-gassing, which improves interior air quality. Prefabrication also minimizes construction waste at a site, and leftover pieces can be recycled for other projects or converted to mulch, Buckley says. There’s no dearth of resources. “It would take only 25 minutes of natural growth in North American forests to replenish the wood Ascent used,” Korb says. “The key to healthy buildings,” he adds, “is healthy trees that come from sustainably managed forests where trees are harvested properly to maintain the health of remaining trees. The amount of carbon sequestered is equivalent to taking 2,400 cars off the road.” 

Aesthetic Positives

Mass timber can create an appealing repurposed industrial vibe in the interior when the wood is left exposed, Berg says. The exposed wood also contributes a biophilic effect. Architects at HKS say preliminary research shows that the exposed natural materials improve workplace productivity. Jones adds, “It offers a contemplative, calm, living-in-nature experience right in the heart of the city for residents.”

Fire Resistance 

Though it seems counterproductive, mass timber’s fire resistance adds to its popularity. “Mass timber products have inherent fire resistance because they char on the outside while retaining structural strength, slowing combustion, and allowing ample time to evacuate a building,” Parsons says. “Wood’s rate of char is predictable and well established in U.S. building codes and standards.” Some remain wary. “The possibility of fire scares people but more understand that everything burns—even concrete and steel. Each material requires different ways to protect it,” Korb says

One Answer to Affordability Issues

As an example, KTGY designed a five-story, 100-percent affordable building, 330 Distel Circle, in Los Altos, Calif., the first of its kind in that city. Jeff Spiritos’s firm, Spiritos Properties, with partners Beulah Land Development and HELP Development, are developing 340 + Dixwell with state low-income tax credits, a four-story, 69-unit, affordable, passive house building in New Haven, Conn. Though the mass timber products were shipped from Austria, they emit less carbon than ones shipped to New Haven by truck, he says. Jones’ Heartwood features 126 units of workforce housing that average 400 square feet.

Outlook

Throughout the country, there’s activity with U.S. developers, builders and architects playing catch-up to European counterparts, says Korb. His firm is constructing a 29-story mixed-use project in St. Louis near the new MLS soccer stadium. A key, Jones says, is for those new to the niche to take advantage of the knowledge now available. “We’ve focused on mass timber for a decade and work exclusively with it all over the country,” she says. 

©National Association of REALTORS®
Reprinted with permission

Last year, the visual search engine Pinterest(link is external) recognized “biophilic design” as a trending search term. Searches for “biophilic architecture” had risen 150%, while searches for “biophilic design bedroom” were up 100%. For real estate professionals, it’ll be important in coming months and years to understand this particular trend and how to incorporate it into a space.

Though it’s making a comeback, this design philosophy is not new. Biophilic design was pioneered in the 1980s by biologist Edward O. Wilson, whose work focused on humans’ need to connect with nature, according to Brooke Lang, interior designer and owner(link is external) of Brooke Lang Design in Chicago.

Everything old is new again, but how are millennial and Generation Z homeowners and tenants making biophilic design their own? Interior design experts offer insights on how this trend is being incorporated now.

Biophilic Design 101

“Biophilic design is all about human connection to nature through architecture,” says Ariana Lovato, interior designer and owner(link is external) of Honeycomb Home Design in Arroyo Grande, Calif. In other words, a house infused with this kind of design should make its residents feel like they are stepping into the natural world: soothing, inspiring, and supportive of physical, mental and emotional wellness.

Lang quickly points out that biophilic design requires more than just scattering a few potted plants throughout the house. She describes it as a whole-building design style that includes layout, lighting, a seamless indoor-outdoor connection and natural materials.

Why It’s Trending Again

True biophilic design is about more than pleasing color palettes and potted plants. The goal is for the space to feel like nature feels: relaxing and restorative. And interior design clients have been craving mood-boosting spaces, according to Lang and Lovato.

“We’ve learned through COVID that our surroundings have so much impact on us,” says Lovato. “Manufacturers have been paying attention to this.” For example, she points to Sprig, Kohler’s recently launched aromatherapy infusions system for showerheads.

For Lang, the biophilic design comeback means more requests for office and home workspaces designed to positively impact well-being through connections with nature. For one of her current projects, a coworking space in Chicago’s Englewood neighborhood, she is prioritizing natural light, indoor-outdoor gardens and floor plans with an organic feeling.

5 Biophilic Design Trends

1. Seeing green

One of the easiest ways to add a touch of biophilic design? Go green—literally.

“Colors in greens are huge this year, and it’s been proven how much of a relaxing color green can be,” says Lovato. “We’re seeing green in cabinetry, wall color, even toilets this year.”

While painting an accent wall emerald or lime isn’t enough to say a home has biophilic design, it’s an accessible way to ease into the trend. For younger, budget-conscious tenants and homeowners, incorporating biophilic concepts through paint and artwork is often the first step, says Lang.

2. Living walls

Homeowners are getting creative with plants. As HGTV(link is external) has pointed out, living walls—walls covered with living plants—are trending. They’re also a classic example of biophilic design.

“Millennials in particular are using elements of biophilic design by adding [living] walls,” says Lang. “For example, our firm just completed a design of a zen room for a client, where we have added a backlit green plant wall to bring the outside in.”

3. Natural, native materials

There’s nothing that connects an interior to its natural surroundings like nature itself.

“Natural stone is having a huge resurgence this year,” says Lovato. Homeowners are opting for “authentic” materials, even when they cost more, she adds. That includes natural stone countertops over engineered quartz and hardwood floors over luxury vinyl plank.

For some clients, natural materials that reflect their immediate surroundings, rather than imported from another area, is important. “It’s also not uncommon for clients to request interior decor choices that reflect elements from the natural habitat, whether it’s sourcing furniture or beams made from a local hardwood or incorporating greenery from the local area,” explains Lang.

4. Emphasis on landscape design

The days of shiny new builds on lackluster plots might be coming to an end. Today’s biophilic-minded clients want their outdoor spaces to feel like a true extension of the home.

That could be using the same plants or potted trees in outdoor landscaping and indoor living. Or it could simply mean that transition spaces, such as screened-in porches or outdoor kitchens, get just as much design attention as the main bedroom, bathroom or kitchen.

From sliding glass doors to glass walls, indoor-outdoor connections are on the rise. Indoor-outdoor gardens and dining and entertainment spaces are especially popular right now, according to Lang.

5. Zen spaces and meditation rooms

“Millennials in particular are using elements of biophilic design by adding [living] walls, zen areas and meditation areas to the homes,” says Lang.

But millennials aren’t the only ones craving dedicated relaxation spaces. Though Lovato’s baby boomer clients rarely use the term “biophilic design,” they too are requesting designated rooms designed for meditation or therapeutic activities like taking a sauna or steam.

“They are asking for the same feeling that biophilic design is meant to create,” she says.

©National Association of REALTORS®
Reprinted with permission

Demand for outdoor features has boomed since the start of the pandemic. These projects stand to earn the most at resale, according to a new survey.

Many homeowners have turned their attention to enhancing their outdoor space since the pandemic began—and that may pay off at resale, according to a new survey from the National Association of REALTORS® and the National Association of Landscape Professionals. Ninety-two percent of REALTORS® say they recommend that sellers improve their curb appeal prior to listing, finds the 2023 Remodeling Impact Report: Outdoor Features. REALTORS® most often recommend general landscaping maintenance, standard lawn care service and tree trimming.

“It’s no surprise that nearly all REALTORS® and most homeowners place a high value on the curb appeal of a well-maintained yard,” says NALP CEO Britt Wood. “Healthy outdoor living and green spaces help the environment, increase home values, make communities more desirable and improve people’s mental and physical health.”

The COVID-19 pandemic changed the way Americans use their homes for daily living, relaxation and entertainment, adds Jessica Lautz, NAR’s deputy chief economist and vice president of research. “Homeowners have embraced their outdoor spaces, transforming them into oases with pools, patios, plants and greenery,” Lautz says. “These outdoor features … can also attract buyers if the owner wants to sell.”

Prioritizing Outdoor Projects for Resale

Most homeowners indicate a desire for an in-ground pool or an outdoor fire feature, but the ROI on these items may not be as high as simple lawn care and landscape maintenance, the report finds. The survey defines “standard lawn care service” as six seasonal applications of fertilizer and/or weed control on a 5,000-square-foot lawn and “landscape maintenance” as mulch application, regular lawn mowing, pruning shrubs and planting about 60 perennials or annuals.  

The features that make homeowners happiest, however, aren’t necessarily the ones that earn the most at resale. The least expensive projects, such as standard lawn care service, have the highest cost recovery but one of the lowest “joy” rankings from homeowners, according to the survey. Instead, the report found that the following outdoor projects received the highest satisfaction marks among homeowners:

• In-ground pool
• Landscape lighting
• New patio
• New wood deck
• Fire feature

On the other hand, the items that ranked the lowest on homeowners’ “joy” scale were:

• Outdoor kitchen
• Tree care
• Standard lawn care service
• Installing a yard irrigation system

The majority of landscape professionals surveyed say the size and scope of outdoor home improvement projects have increased since the pandemic began. REALTORS® surveyed say the landscape projects they’ve seen most often since the pandemic began are the addition of an in-ground pool, landscape maintenance and a new patio.

©National Association of REALTORS®
Reprinted with permission