In many subdivisions, the exterior style of every house is the same, or rows of townhouses in cities, that are identical. Many subdivisions were built by the same builder, so even if the exteriors vary, many of the design elements such as cabinet color, flooring, and counter top styles are the same. This is beginning to shift. Generation X, Y, and Baby Boomer demographics are starting to move away from the cookie cutter one-size-fits-all style of housing. Below are the highlights of an article that appeared in the Real Estate section of the Chicago Tribune from Sunday, March 2, 2014 on this topic.
Gen Y or Millennials (Born from 1980-2000)
- Flexibility in housing format, with many in this demographic renting.
- Live in close proximity to restaurants, sports stadiums, and other forms of entertainment.
- Enjoy having automated homes, even motorized shades that can be controlled from their phone.
- Want social spaces that are usable, tend to shy away from formal living rooms.
- Like retro-modern style with brighter colors.
Gen X (Born from mid-60’s-1980)
- Accounted for most first time buyers according to 2013 survey by National Association of Realtors
- Looking for more ornate styling.
- Big backyards for the kids.
- Intend to live in house for 20 years or so.
- Want energy efficient homes, and appliances
Baby Boomers (Born from 1946-1964)
- Are rediscovering urban living, and purchasing condos and townhouses in cities.
- Want a place that fits their aging lifestyle.
- Must have storage space.
- Still enjoy formal dining rooms.
- Like traditional design, and classic colors.
- Want to be able to join social clubs, but also desire fitness oriented groups.
- – Like to stick with only one story residences.