What is trending with luxury home designs in 2023?
1. Architectural Details
Luxury homeowners understand that opulence extends beyond the interior of their homes. The dedication to creating a unique living environment also extends to the outdoor space. These homeowners recognize the value of investing in exquisite architectural details and customization and are willing to allocate substantial funds for this purpose.
Luxury buyers relish craftsmanship, ensuring beauty in every detail of the home. Regardless of the materials selected, the interior and exterior design needs special architectural flourishes that set the home apart from regular homes. However, these details should not be overused. Otherwise, the final look will be too busy.
Architectural details produce the greatest effect when used judiciously. They show that extra time and energy were spent creating the space.
Examples of special architectural details:
- Archways
- Turrets
- Pillars
- Curved walls
- Nooks
- Recessed shelving
2. Premium Materials
A luxury home demands the use of superior materials renowned for their refined aesthetics and long-lasting durability, both inside and outside. Ordinary materials like laminate flooring won’t suffice; instead, a wide array of premium materials and finishes can be used to elevate the home’s overall appeal. The key is to carefully select options that harmonize with one another, creating a seamless and extraordinary home experience.
Popular luxury materials include:
- Plaster walls
- Stone tile flooring
- Hardwood flooring
- Bamboo flooring
- Laser cut sheet metal wall panels
- Flagstones
- Brick
- Glass tiles or bricks
- Ceramics
3. Latest High-quality fittings
Lavish homeowners like to use the most stunning finishes & fittings in their homes. Be it the highest-end home appliances or interior design, they prefer elegance & top quality over other things. But some would go for reclaimed materials, like wood & bamboo, since it is also a growing trend. So, wood beams, floorings, doors, & cabinets are also visible.
4. Impressively Sized Spaces
Luxury villas are often characterized by their grand, expansive living areas, making a lasting impression on any visitor.
The generous size of these spaces allows for the following:
- Hosting elaborates on social gatherings.
- Showcasing art pieces and sculptures.
- Accommodating large musical instruments like a grand piano.
- Emphasizing picturesque outdoor views.
The vast openness of these areas conveys a grandeur that few residential properties can compete with. However, it’s crucial to balance the allure of open spaces with the need for privacy. After all, everyone requires secluded spots to work, play, or unwind without being disrupted by others’ activities. Consequently, it’s important in the design of a luxury villa to strike the right balance between open, communal spaces and private, individual rooms. This ensures the various functions of the home are well-segregated, and everyone can enjoy both shared and private experiences in the home.
5. Expansive Customized Garages
Luxury homes often go hand in hand with premium vehicles which necessitate exceptional storage facilities. Hence, expansive custom garages are a defining feature of luxury villas. These garages are designed to accommodate more than four vehicles, and often integrate additional spaces such as apartments or guest suites, providing an exquisite shelter for both vehicles and visitors alike.
6. Lap Pools
In many upscale housing developments, limited yard space poses a challenge for homeowners. However, for those who are active and enjoy swimming on a regular basis, there is a solution to this predicament: single-lane lap pools. These pools are specifically designed to cater to individuals who desire a daily swim but don’t have the area to accommodate a standard-size pool.
7. Spectacular View
One of the most essential features of any luxury home is the view. A good view can be the difference between a home that sells and one that doesn’t. For example, a luxury home with a view of the ocean will always be in high demand.
Having a picturesque view can significantly enhance the resale value of a home. Properties with stunning vistas experience higher appreciation rates than those without such scenic advantages. It’s only logical since potential buyers are willing to pay a premium for a home with a captivating view.
Numerous cities boast remarkable views that contribute to the allure of luxury homes. Some notable examples include Aspen, Colorado, known for its majestic mountain landscapes, Beverly Hills, California, renowned for its panoramic cityscape and lush surroundings, and Miami, Florida, a popular destination for celebrities and wealthy individuals from all over the world, famous for its breathtaking ocean views. Each of these cities offers a distinct collection of luxurious residences, each adorned with its exceptional vista.
8. Latest Technology
It’s necessary to recognize the pervasive influence of technology in every aspect of our lives, including the realm of luxury living. Affluent homeowners demand state-of-the-art tech integration in their residences, enabling them to control various aspects such as indoor climate, lighting, security systems, and door locks with a simple tap on their smartphones, even from a considerable distance.
Intelligent Home Monitoring Systems
- Luxury homes benefit greatly from smart home monitoring systems, adding an extra layer of security and peace of mind. These opulent residences are often equipped with the latest interconnected systems, devices, and appliances, allowing remote and automated monitoring to ensure safety and security. Contemporary luxury homes often feature motion-sensitive lighting, internet-connected security cameras, and software that links various household utilities, all manageable through a dedicated app on a smartphone or tablet. These systems not only track energy consumption but also alert homeowners to potential security breaches that require immediate attention.
- Built-in automation has become an indispensable component of luxury homes, and builders who offer these services are often favored by discerning homeowners. Another modern addition is ‘Designer Lighting’. Incorporating indirect lighting into home designs is a contemporary approach that introduces varying moods through strategic illumination.
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Luxury homes are synonymous with high-end security. Innovative technology includes advanced automation that allows homeowners to control lighting, heating, and cooling systems, alongside high-tech security cameras, all through a single remote control. The system can also manage irrigation, ventilation, blinds, and even pools & spas, all programmable remotely at the touch of a button, ensuring an environmentally friendly, low-carbon footprint and a secure home environment.
9. A Luxury Kitchen
The kitchen is widely regarded as the core of a residence. Thus, it holds great significance in luxury residences. It demands a kitchen that exudes opulence and sophistication through its choice of cabinetry, countertops, and high-end appliances. In addition to these elements, a luxury kitchen often incorporates a butler’s pantry, further elevating its functionality and elegance.
Luxury kitchen trends include:
- Granite, quartz, or stainless-steel countertops
- Tile or hardwood floors
- Large island counters
- Large ranges with hoods
- Tile, stone, or glass backsplashes
- One or more large sinks
- Hardwood cabinetry
- Good lighting design
- Butler’s pantry
- Open shelving for decorative objects
As for kitchen design, you have nearly endless choices in colors and textures. Anything you like is on the table, from sleek modern designs to charming country kitchens.
To enhance the dining experience, luxury homes may feature an alfresco area adjoining the dining room. This outdoor space provides an ideal setting for the family to savor their meals while enjoying the open air and beautiful surroundings.
10. Spa-like bathroom
The main bathroom in a high-end home is a haven of calm, equipped with modern conveniences like Bluetooth shower heads, standalone tubs, aromatherapy systems, and even saunas. These features are complemented by elegant decor, luxury wallpaper, chic brass faucets, intricate tiles, state-of-the-art smart toilets, and fashionable wash basins. These bathrooms are designed with separate areas for the tub and vanities, usually next to the dressing room.
In luxury homes, bathrooms go beyond necessity, resembling a top-tier spa. They’re fitted with overhead rain showers, sunken tubs, jacuzzis, and massage shower systems. The water systems can be adjusted for temperature and pressure. They also often feature smart toilets, which include comforts like massaging bidets, heated seats, automatic seat lifters, touch-free flushing, and health tracking.
Design-wise, the traditional white tiles and single-tone color schemes have made way for bold textures, vibrant colors, and unique materials. Accents like glass, bamboo, rattan, and mood lighting add to the atmosphere. Chrome taps have been swapped for brass or other elegant fixtures. In essence, every luxury home bathroom aims to wow with its high-end materials, fashionable aesthetics, and useful features.
Luxury touches that turn baths into spa areas are:
- Soaker tubs
- Showers with multiple heads
- Steam room or sauna
- Bidet
- Alcove walls
- Beveled mirrors
- Touch screen mirrors with televisions
- Gorgeous faucets and fixtures
- Beautiful light fixtures
- Bluetooth speakers
- Private windows to let in natural light
- Radiant heat flooring
- Fireplace
11. Outdoor Lifestyle Elements
Access to private outdoor space has become a coveted luxury, particularly for city dwellers, while it’s often a standard feature in countryside homes. Urbanites can find themselves paying a premium of around 25% for this privilege. Modern luxury home designs often incorporate lavish outdoor amenities to enhance the living experience.
Key outdoor elements in a luxury home typically include an inviting front entrance and a tranquil backyard retreat. This could encompass a laid-back seating area complete with a deck and patio. More upscale properties might even boast an outdoor kitchen, perfect for hosting summer barbecues, complete with a sink, mini-fridge, stone countertop, and an outdoor fireplace.
Additional aesthetic enhancements can be achieved through landscaping, featuring decorative trees, fountains, and ponds. On top of these, the property could offer outdoor recreational facilities like a swimming pool or a tennis court, adding to the appeal of a luxurious outdoor lifestyle.
12. Salt-Water Swimming Pool
The increasing popularity of water exercise has led to a surge in demand for homes equipped with lap pools. It reflects the evolving preferences of homeowners who value wellness and enhanced experiences.
Lap pools have become highly sought after as they offer an ideal space for swimming and aquatic fitness routines. In response to health and comfort concerns, saltwater systems have gained prominence. These systems use salt chlorinators to generate chlorine naturally, reducing the need for additional chemicals. As a result, swimmers often experience gentler water that is gentler to the skin and eyes.
13. Cork Spray
Cork Spray is a premium option for high-end housing, offering a sophisticated and sustainable solution for painting and coating surfaces. Its unique blend of durability and aesthetic appeal makes it a desirable choice among luxury homeowners.
It is an innovative and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional paint that offers a range of advantages. This unique material resembles stucco in appearance and texture but sets itself apart with its exceptional durability and long-lasting color retention. Unlike traditional paint that can crack or fade over time, Cork Spray maintains its vibrant color for at least 10 to 12 years, ensuring a fresh and appealing look for an extended period.
One of the notable benefits of Cork Spray is its nontoxic nature, making it a safe choice for interior and exterior applications. It does not release harmful chemicals or volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the environment, contributing to better indoor air quality. Additionally, Cork Spray possesses inherent mold-resistant properties, reducing the risk of mold growth and promoting a healthier living environment.
14. Water-Purification System
Water-purification systems have become an essential feature for luxury homeowners, offering a range of benefits that go beyond conventional tap water. These high-end filtration systems employ filtration technologies to remove impurities such as chlorine, lead, mercury, pesticides, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). As a result, luxury homeowners can enjoy peace of mind knowing that the water they consume and use for various purposes is of the highest quality and free from potentially harmful substances.
15. Energy-Efficient Fireplaces
Energy-efficient fireplaces offer a modern and environmentally friendly approach to creating warmth and ambiance. Unlike their old-fashioned counterparts, energy-efficient fireplaces utilize advanced technologies to minimize energy consumption and maximize heat output. They often incorporate features like sealed combustion systems, advanced insulation, and adjustable settings to ensure optimal efficiency. As a result, luxury homeowners can enjoy the cozy atmosphere and comforting glow of a fireplace while minimizing their energy usage and reducing utility costs.
16. Massage Room
The pursuit of wellness has become a paramount concern, particularly in light of the recent pandemic. As a result, luxury homeowners are increasingly seeking homes equipped with dedicated spas or massage rooms to meet their relaxation and rejuvenation needs.
A massage room serves as a personal sanctuary, allowing homeowners to design a tranquil atmosphere tailored to their preferences. This space can be adorned with massage tables, plush seating, soothing color schemes, and soft lighting to set the perfect ambiance for relaxation. Aromatherapy, with the use of essential oils, can further enhance the sensory experience, promoting a state of calm and balance.
17. Cold-Plunge Pool
Cold-plunge pools have become a desirable feature of luxury homes. Whether situated within a dedicated home spa or on a rooftop deck, these pools feature chilled water that provides various advantages, including immune system strengthening, endorphin release, and mood enhancement.
18. Floor-to-Ceiling Windows
Luxury homeowners across the United States and Northern Europe have developed a strong preference for contemporary floor-to-ceiling windows in their residences.
By allowing sunlight to penetrate the home, these windows create a bright and inviting atmosphere, reducing the need for artificial lighting during daylight hours. It also provides panoramic views of the surrounding environment and serves as an architectural focal point, adding a touch of modernity and elegance to luxury homes.
19. Electric-Car Charging Stations
With the growing emphasis on sustainability and the rising popularity of electric cars, luxury homeowners are increasingly seeking properties equipped with electric car charging stations. This feature has become a key consideration for environmentally conscious individuals who prioritize an eco-friendly lifestyle and seek the convenience of charging their electric vehicles at home.
20. Plush, Hotel-Quality Bedrooms
A truly luxurious bedroom is defined by its warm and inviting ambiance, created through elements such as cozy bedding, carefully curated lighting, and the finest quality furnishings. In a modern luxury home, the comfort level of the bedrooms is a crucial indicator of its upscale nature. Whether adorned with floor-to-ceiling windows, a balcony, or an outdoor area, these bedrooms provide a sense of relaxation that feels like a perpetual vacation.
One wakes up at a massive California King bed topped with a fluffy headboard, bolster and accent pillows, a duvet, and the softest comforter you’d want to wrap your body around forever. Aside from the comfy bed, the bedroom is also furnished with a comfy accent chair or two, where you can spend time reading a book (if you don’t feel like sleeping). The walls and floor are also padded to help set the mood.
Some bedrooms even include convenient installations like automatic lighting and window blinds systems, so you can open and close them with a click of a button or by voice command. To increase the comfort of these modern luxury bedrooms, some install a mini-pantry filled with snacks, drinks, and other food items for a midnight snack.
21. A “Secret” Room
Who doesn’t love surprises? A secret room is a mini-adventure not only for the kids but also for the rest of the family. Modern luxury homes may have all the technology and high-end features you can cram into, but nothing beats having unique living spaces like secret rooms.
These secret rooms are rooms where the entrance or the door is hidden from the rest of the home, but it can be anything you want. A secret room can be behind a bookshelf or an obscure wall, and when opened, it is a secret retreat from the rest of the world or, at the very least, the rest of the household. Moreover, a secret room can also act as a security and safety measure.
22. An Entertainment Hub to Keep You Captivated
An entertainment hub is an essential component of a luxury house designed to provide a dedicated space for recreation, relaxation, and enjoyment. This dedicated area is meticulously designed to cater to various forms of entertainment, creating a space where residents and guests can relax, have fun, and enjoy quality time together.
23. Integration with the Outdoors
A hallmark of luxury villas is the seamless integration with the surrounding outdoor environment. This can be achieved in several ways:
- Extensive use of glass doors and windows to create a natural flow between indoors and outdoors.
- Incorporation of outdoor living areas into the property design.
One prevailing trend is the use of glass partitions, such as sliding or high-end accordion doors, to distinguish interior living spaces from decks or patios. This setup allows for the flexibility to connect the indoor and outdoor environments as desired.
Other methods to incorporate natural elements indoors include:
- Integrating natural stone decor.
- Including potted plants and trees.
- Installing skylights to allow more natural light.
- Setting up water fountains for a calming ambiance.
These strategies, often referred to as biophilic design principles, utilize living plants or foliage-inspired artwork to evoke the soothing feeling of being amidst nature. Additionally, the creation of outdoor rooms is a growing trend in luxury villa design. These spaces can encompass:
- Outdoor kitchens for alfresco cooking and dining.
- Outdoor dining areas for enjoying meals in the open air.
- Outdoor media rooms for entertainment under the stars.
24. Special-Purpose Rooms and Areas
When it comes to designing a luxury home, the possibilities for incorporating special-purpose rooms are endless. These unique spaces, such as a library or billiards room, offer the opportunity to create an ambiance that resembles a real-life Clue game board, adding an element of intrigue and excitement to the overall design.
These are some popular specialty additions in luxury homes:
- Luxurious Home Office – Home offices have transitioned from being perceived as an extravagant feature to an essential part of contemporary luxury homes. Given the increased prevalence of remote work, these spaces are now optimally equipped to facilitate productivity in a comfortable setting. Modern home offices boast advanced technological features, such as reliable online connectivity, multipurpose printer-scanner machines, and sophisticated telecommunication systems for conference calls. Ergonomically designed furniture, replacing standard office chairs, has become a staple to mitigate the discomfort from prolonged sitting. Besides functionality, aesthetics are paramount too, as these spaces often serve as impressive backdrops for business video calls, further underlining the sense of luxury.
- Exercise Room – A recent trend in luxury homes is the incorporation of specialized fitness areas. Previously, homeowners would typically repurpose an extra bedroom or a section of their garage into a makeshift gym with essential equipment like weights and treadmills. Modern, well-equipped workout spaces now feature entertainment systems to make long workouts more enjoyable, standalone shower facilities for convenience, relaxation zones for post-workout recovery, and sports-themed decor to motivate and inspire.
- Home Cinemas – While many of us dream of owning a home theater as we grow up, it’s a luxury that only a select few can attain. However, if you have the financial means and wish to indulge your inner child, a home cinema can be a remarkable addition to your home.
Investing in a home cinema is an excellent choice for those who value luxury and functionality. After all, who wouldn’t enjoy the thrill of watching movies in the comfort of their home, with the bonus of a cinematic experience? More importantly, it allows you to bypass common annoyances in public cinemas, like disruptive children or people talking on their phones, ensuring an uninterrupted and enjoyable movie experience.
- Game Room – Equipped with all the necessary features and accessories, a dedicated game room can elevate your cool factor among friends and adds an irresistible appeal to your home. Not only does it make your home more appealing, but a game room is also a favored pastime for many. So, if you’re aiming to make a statement while also ensuring a fun-filled leisure space for yourself, investing in a gaming lounge for your home is an excellent decision.
- Children’s Playroom – Unlike a game room intended for adults, a playroom for children should cater specifically to their interests, packed with a diverse range of indoor games and toys. The space should be sizable and brimming with fun elements to engage even the youngest members of the family. This room will serve as a hub of entertainment for your kids and a talking point among their friends’ families. They’ll undoubtedly share stories about your incredible house and the memorable times spent playing there. While it might seem a little ostentatious, it’s a small price to pay to ensure your home stands out in the best possible way.
- Expansive Home Libraries – Historically, large public libraries were the go-to place for enriching oneself with knowledge and literature. However, in the world of luxury living, owning an expansive home library serves a dual purpose: it offers a peaceful reading sanctuary and serves as a status symbol, considering the rising cost of books today. A well-stocked, beautifully designed home library can present its owner as a person of culture and erudition, adding another layer to their luxurious lifestyle.
- Recording Studio – In the modern era of online content creation, recording studios have gained popularity among both hobbyists and professionals. These dedicated spaces are equipped with the necessary audio and video equipment to facilitate high-quality recordings. From podcasts and music production to video streaming and voice-overs, a recording studio provides a controlled environment for capturing and editing audio and visual content.
- Rooftop Patio – A rooftop patio offers a unique and elevated outdoor living space that offers a remarkable space for relaxation, entertaining guests, or simply enjoying the outdoors in a secluded and luxurious setting. This open-air area can be transformed into an inviting oasis with comfortable seating, stylish furnishings, and amenities such as an outdoor kitchen or a fireplace.
- Master Suite Balcony – A master suite balcony is an extension of the master bedroom, providing a private outdoor space exclusively for homeowners. It offers an intimate retreat where one can unwind, enjoy a cup of coffee or a glass of wine, and bask in the fresh air. This balcony can be adorned with comfortable seating, lush greenery, and scenic views, allowing for moments of serenity and connection with nature.
- Craft Room – The craft room is a dedicated space for artistic pursuits and DIY projects. It is designed to accommodate various creative activities, such as sewing, painting, scrapbooking, or any other craft or hobby. Equipped with storage for materials and tools, ample workspace, and proper lighting, a craft room provides an organized and inspiring environment for individuals to explore their artistic talents and unleash their creativity.
- Art Studio – Whether it be painting, sculpting, drawing, or any other artistic medium, an art studio offers ample space, good lighting, and appropriate equipment to support the artistic process. It serves as a sanctuary for artistic expression, allowing artists to fully immerse themselves in their craft and bring their visions to life.
25. Advanced Air Purification Systems
An unseen luxury feature that significantly enhances your living experience in a villa is an advanced indoor air quality system. A high-end environmental system caters to heating, cooling, ventilation, and, most importantly, air purification.
Air purification systems, which either filter out contaminants or utilize ultraviolet light for disinfection, are becoming increasingly popular. They are particularly beneficial in areas susceptible to wildfires where smoke pollution can be intense.
Such systems are highly appreciated for their ability to eliminate:
- Pollen
- Pet dander
- Dust
- Pathogens
This means cleaner, healthier air for residents, contributing significantly to overall well-being. Meanwhile, the mention of lap pools seems to be misplaced in this context as it pertains to a different aspect of luxury villa features.
26. Expansive Walk-In Closets and Dressing Rooms
A prominent indicator of affluence is owning a vast collection of designer clothes and having an elaborate space to store and display them. Yes, a well-designed, spacious walk-in closet can often overshadow even the most impressive clothing collections, serving as a testament to one’s wealth.
The grandeur of having a large closet that you must physically walk into to reach all your garments is unmatched. And if everything is meticulously organized, it’s the icing on the cake. A simple full-length mirror on your closet door no longer meets the luxury standard. Instead, a private dressing area, ideally located off your bedroom and bathroom, is a necessity. This dedicated space offers seamless access to your walk-in closet and provides a comfortable environment to dress and prepare for the day ahead
27. Residential Elevators
Residential elevators, once considered a retrofit in older buildings, have become a prominent feature in newly constructed luxury villas. They provide a safe and convenient mode of transportation between floors, especially beneficial for older adults who may find it challenging to navigate lengthy staircases. Nowadays, even owners of average-sized homes are opting for in-home lifts, emphasizing their growing popularity and acceptance.
28. Standalone Saunas
Although standalone, portable saunas have been around for over a decade, they are now becoming a regular fixture in luxury homes. They can be found in bathrooms, by the poolside, or on decks. Two factors have contributed to this trend: the significant reduction in prices of recent models and the growing inclination of mature homeowners to integrate relaxation into their everyday lifestyle.
29. Decorative Waterfalls
Once out of favor in the design world, decorative waterfalls are making a remarkable return, now enhanced with modern extras such as piped-in music, thematic backdrops, mini light shows, and mechanisms that create realistic splash sounds. Thanks to advances in technology, these waterfalls can be fully portable, adding flexibility to relocate them as needed. These captivating elements, available in diverse sizes, styles, and price points, are increasingly found in living rooms, backyards, porches, and family rooms.
30. In-House Bars
A well-stocked home bar can be a lifesaver, particularly during social gatherings. A strategically placed, stylish bar can provide a much-needed escape during less-than-pleasant social situations, making it a wise addition to your luxury villa.
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31. Wine Cellars
A substantial wine cellar can be a status symbol, indicating affluence and refined taste. Showcasing an impressive collection of limited-edition wines indulges the homeowner’s passion for fine vintages and serves as an elegant talking point with friends and family. Few people possess extensive wine cellars, so having one underscores the luxury quotient of your lifestyle.
32. Outdoor Kitchens
While a well-equipped indoor kitchen is more of a necessity than a luxury, an outdoor kitchen exudes an air of exclusivity and sophistication. There’s an undeniable charm in a fully functional outdoor kitchen, complete with a well-stocked fridge and comfortable seating arrangements. It provides a unique setting for alfresco dining, making your guests envious and elevating your status as the perfect host.
33. Multiple Formal Dining Rooms
While it’s customary for most homeowners to have a single formal dining room reserved for special occasions, the super-rich often elevate their dining experiences by maintaining multiple, aesthetically pleasing dining areas. Having more than one formal dining room not only reflects affluence but also becomes a unique talking point, contributing to one’s reputation among their social circles. However, it’s worth remembering that tastefulness should guide the design choices to avoid a sense of overindulgence or tackiness. Although materials like marble can add to the allure, moderation is key to striking a balance between luxury and sophistication.
Author by : Aleksandra Jaworska, Chief Creative Officer at Berg Development Group
