Modern
Aesthetics
From a style perspective, Millennials are into nostalgia, which, in this case doesn’t mean a 1914 bungalow, but rather a mid-century modern in the suburbs on a street with sidewalks. This style is a departure from the contrived Tuscan villages and French cottages that have dominated the market. If there were affordable reinterpreted-for-today Eichlers out there, the Gen Y buyer would come in droves. Here are a few ways we provide a contemporary feel to our projects:
Clean lines. Gen Y doesn’t want the clutter, the fluff, or the crown molding. They want simplicity. They’ve been influenced by Dwell, Design Within Reach, Houzz, Pinterest, modern prefab houses, and the Tiny House movement. Gen Y is influenced by brands they trust, so consider brand collaborations for model merchandising: West Elm, IKEA, CB2, Crate & Barrel.
Less space, better design. Let’s not forget, Gen Y buyers have been through a recession. Many see a house not as an asset, but as a burden. They don’t want a big house to maintain. They want something where they can just pack up and go, and not worry about the maintenance. It’s not about size, it’s about the space, and how concisely it’s designed. If it was practical and they could afford it, they might travel the country and live out of an Airstream trailer. To satisfy this desire, think smaller, high touch, high efficiency design. Every design decision has a purpose.
Michael Walmsley
A burst of unexpected color just makes you happy.
Open spaces, outdoor spaces.
Knock down the walls! Think of the space as a detached loft and always look to
the light. Open kitchen and entertaining spaces are a must. Invest in unique outdoor
gathering spaces: an outdoor kitchen, a built-in outdoor sitting area, a fire
pit, or a patio with a greenwall.
Color and texture. Help make
the space fun and fresh by incorporating splashes of color. If possible, go
smooth with the walls, so it’s sleek, sexy, and cool. Add texture to the
interior with unique fabrics, materials, and surfaces. Consider exterior fabric
shading or a modern fence design. Paint
the front door yellow. Add these touches
while maintaining the clean, modern lines the generation seeks.
