April 18, 2023

Luxury homes have always been the gem of the home-building industry, but with today’s trends in opulence, those custom homes are pushing the boundaries of innovation further than ever before. While the custom-built home is tailored to its future owner, luxury-built homes take “custom” and pair it with evolving trends in design, construction, and technology. Windjam Properties has partnered with numerous builders who excel in luxury, from creating the perfect homesite to handing over the keys to a residence packed with top-notch amenities.

Must-haves in the luxury home market have moved beyond the standard large kitchen island, generous owner’s suite, or covered patios. Today, trends arrive quickly and, just as quickly, are added to the amenity list while mapping out blueprints. The top two inclusions are smart home technology and consideration of carbon footprints.

• Smart Home Technology began appearing in homes within the last decade and has skyrocketed since. High-end properties must feature the most up-to-date automation systems, allowing homeowners to control endless aspects of their environment. Today, luxury homes must include the ability to manipulate appliances, lighting, security, and climate via voice command or handheld devices. While the convenience is a huge plus, these smart features are often responsible for cost and energy savings.
• Tying into the energy savings that Smart Home Technology offers, the focus on sustainably and eco-friendliness is also a priority among builders. As homesites are selected, their impact on the natural areas that surround them is considered prior to the first shovel hitting the earth. The importance of maintaining the well-being of the environment is critical. This is achieved by incorporating solar panels, geothermal HVAC systems, and energy-efficient appliances in addition to using sustainable materials such as reclaimed wood or metals. Some homeowners are even incorporating Cork Spray rather than traditional paint, giving the appearance of stucco with a non-toxic, lasting product.
• One of the easier additions (and one that is growing in popularity) is a designated charging area for electric vehicles. As EVs continue to gain momentum, homeowners want the ability to wake up each day with a “full tank” rather than having to recharge on the go. The installation is quite straightforward and the benefits last for a lifetime.

Floorplans in the luxury home market continue to trend in using open-concept living spaces. This design removes barriers between spaces, creating an interconnected flow. The benefit is a seamless aesthetic in which spaces share natural light and air. Alternatively, peripheral rooms now house personalized extravagance that brings relaxation and wellness into the home.

• In-home health and wellness have become a top priority in high-end residential properties. Features such as home gyms, yoga studios, saunas, or even indoor pools are now a must-have for those desiring a more private sanctuary for well-being.
• Maker spaces are now taking shape in garage bays, allowing those who relax by creating ample room to spread artist wings.
• Dedicated viewing areas for the best cinematic experience on the block include stadium seating, surround sound, and even theatre-grade snack stations. What used to be a simple “tv room” is now a fully functional screening room.

Lower-level spaces, previously used for storing decorations or out-of-season wardrobes, are now being maximized for enjoyment. This is where many palatial homes tuck away areas in which memories are bound to be created.

• For wine collectors, a simple rack will no longer suffice and the answer to a growing inventory is in a custom-built wine cellar. This temperature-controlled room offers the perfect spot to show off (and enjoy!) bottles picked up during a vineyard visit, near or far.
• Today’s game rooms are not what they used to be. Today, finished basements include dedicated spaces for chess or poker, a multi-purpose table for ping-pong or pool, and even an in-home golf simulator or bowling lanes. Residents no longer make quick dashes downstairs to grab a wanted item. Instead, this space is now fully functional for large gatherings including family and friends.

Because most luxury homes come with expansive lots, outdoor space provides a blank slate for residents to transition into resort-style living. Blending the indoors into the out with fully retractable glass walls that spill out to expansive patios that include weather-friendly kitchens is just the beginning of beauty without boundaries.

• Pools are the most common value added to homesites but opulence is added with the addition of either a salt-water or plunge pool. Saltwater pools require less chlorine (and therefore no chemical-like “pool” smell) which eliminates burning eyes or dried skin. A cold plunge pool can improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and have even been noted as improving mental health.
• Piggybacking the indoor golf simulator, homeowners are installing chip-and-putt areas just outside the back door. Multi-sport courts are also a must-have for those who love to move and include basketball, pickleball, tennis, four-square, and more.
• A relaxing stroll through ambling gardens is an amazing way to wrap up a busy day. Generous lots allow this by offering the space to create multiple areas to enjoy nature's wonders. This may mean a beautiful rose garden on one side of the property and a wildflower garden on the other with hammocks or gliders sprinkled in between.

Welcoming guests to luxury starts as soon as they enter the driveway. Standard pavement is often upgraded to stamped concrete to create an entry personalized to the homeowner’s taste. To enhance the experience further, a focus on curb appeal creates a viewing wonderland.

• A circular driveway is an opulent addition that offers visual beauty.
• Installation of front yard fountain taps into multiple senses.
• Framing a luxury home with plush greenery, including paths that begin in the front yard and lead to the back beckons visitors to a stunning stroll.

Building a luxury home is a process that taps into the grandest of dreams as homeowners are able to create spaces that truly reflect their unique tastes, preferences, and lifestyles. Customization options are endless, beginning with layout and materials and continuing all the way through the finishing touches. This sector of the new home-building industry has always been fascinating, but with the increased availability of smart technology and eco-sensitive amenities, it is now reaching unparalleled levels in comfort, sophistication, and personal style.

Windjam Properties and Sage Built are a favorite in the local, luxury home-building market. Contact the Windjam team today to start customizing your dreams of luxury living.