When you think about architecture, you might imagine the timeless columns of a Grecian revival or the clean lines of a mid-century modern home. But for every classic architecture style, there are a few that didn’t quite weather the test of time. It’s why you can sometimes tell exactly when a home was built based on its architectural style alone (looking at you, 1990s ranch). The trick to transitioning from trend to style staple is choosing one or two of the elements from the style you love for your home. Resist the urge to pile all of the trends into one space. Instead, check out some of our favorite 2019 architecture trends to see which features you’d choose. These are the 2019 Architecture Trends by freshome.
Hidden tech - Smart homes are nothing new in the world of tech and design, but architects are learning to be sneakier about it. Today, technology exists as part of the home’s design instead of being its main feature. Building smart outlets or speakers directly into the home means you get all the tech you love without tripping over wires. It’s also important that tech is seen as a seamless part of life, rather than an add-on. Expect to see even more solutions to keep tech hidden, yet totally functional.
Flex design -No two families are exactly alike, so why are so many floorplans the same? The idea of flexible design is one of those 2019 architecture trends we can really get behind. After all, it just makes sense that designers would start to see that different families have different ways of doing things. The result is a flexible approach to design that leaves the details up to the homeowners. Creating rooms that pull double duty (a combination guest room and office, anyone?) or getting rid of formal, less-used spaces (bye, formal dining room!) means architects can create homes where every inch is optimized for each family.
Sustainability - Designing for sustainability isn’t anything new on the architecture scene, but the solutions architects are using are so 2019. Sustainability isn’t just about using energy-rated appliances and a few solar panels, but really considering the impact building has on the environment. With that in mind, more designers are turning to locally sourced, sustainable building materials to get started. Sustainability is being built right into the walls with more efficient fixtures and even indoor green spaces. You might not even know that your architect is a stickler for sustainability because great designers simply make it a seamless part of your build.
Smaller scale - Just a decade ago, size really mattered most when designing a home. It was all about how much square footage you could get, which is why the real estate market is packed with 1990 and early 2000 “McMansions.” These are usually homes that, while large, are often cheaply finished or cursed with small lots. It’s interesting to note that one of the most common 2019 architecture trends is choosing to build smaller. It’s not always a question of budget; homeowners are simply choosing to create smaller footprints. Not only does this leave more outdoor space, but it means easier upkeep and less maintenance. It also allows homeowners to invest in good-quality finishes and furnishings so their smaller home stands the test of time.
Segmented spaces - We all know that the open concept home has been the gold standard for the last 10 years. After decades of small, specific rooms, American families are choosing spaces that allow more room and fewer labels. But while open concept offers the most room to roam, it still has a few issues. There can be such a thing as too much openness in a home, so architects have had to learn to create defined spaces without using walls. Segmented spaces, which use architectural features like sunken rooms, varying ceiling heights and other features help to divvy up the space while keeping it open.
Outdoor living - The backyard isn’t an afterthought anymore. More architects are taking the time to design the outdoor living space as much as the indoor. Whether it’s space for a backyard barbecue, a sunny pool oasis or even just a kid’s paradise, expect to see more outdoor design in 2019. As architects consider the way families live and use their homes, it’s more apparent that outside is just as important as inside. Design a smart outdoor space and you’ll increase your home’s size without increasing square footage. What’s more, planning for outdoor space as part of the design and build means more efficient budgeting.
Modern farmhouse - For the last couple of years, the farmhouse has reigned supreme as the top trend. Homeowners love the comfortable warmth and architectural interest farmhouse design brings to the table. But there were a few drawbacks, including the risk of becoming cluttered and kitschy. That’s why we’re not surprised to see modern farmhouse take over the list of 2019 architecture trends. It takes what everyone loves about farmhouse design (warmth, character) but uses clean lines and architecture to ensure it doesn’t become clunky and cluttered. It’s a perfect marriage of two design styles to create something as functional as it is beautiful — and we’re here for it.
Using every possible trend in your home is what could push your design out of the “timeless” category. Instead, choose two or three trends that you’d like your architect to incorporate and then allow him or her to work magic on your design. When done well, your 2019 home can stand the test of time and always look totally on trend.
Design also flows into your outside spaces and in Designing Your Outdoor Living Space This Summer: 4 Hot Trends - From bohemian cues to minimalistic touches, the decor in our homes is migrating outdoors for the summer—and balance, in both colors and materials, is the overarching theme, according to a new report by Zillow. "The lines have been blurred between what's indoor-only and what you can use outside, which means it's never been easier to create an outdoor space that's cohesive with your indoor design," says Kerrie Kelly, design expert at Zillow.
The Hottest Outdoor Trends - Comforts of Indoors, Out. Most of us delineate our indoor living spaces in a structured way, from arranging anchor furniture and hanging lighting to rolling out rugs. According to the Zillow report, this approach is appropriate for outside, as well, in accents like chandeliers and cushions in durable materials, centered around a fireplace or fire pit—ideal for interaction, movement and warmth.
Bright, Saturated Shades - Beyond the comforts of the indoors, citrusy colors are a top trend, with the beginning of the rainbow specifically in vogue. From corals and scarlets to tangerines, these bright hues liven up outdoor spaces, as well as coordinate with less peppy shades, making them simple to swap.
Scandinavian Touches - Classified by minimalism and a monochromatic palette, Nordic/Scandinavian design is also heading outdoors—think aluminum furnishings and neutral textiles. The aesthetic beautifully pairs with wood, according to the design experts at Zillow, complementing a deck or porch well.
Green as a Statement - Eco-friendliness is having its moment, the report shows. To add "green" to your outdoor space, consider installing LED lighting powered by solar, or a dramatic living wall, which won't detract from the natural surroundings.
Looking to get outside this weekend, here are some of the festivals and events happening this weekend — Summer is in full swing, and with the end of the school year come longer days and seemingly endless activities with which to fill them. Get out of the house and have some fun with these festivals and events happening in June throughout the Beehive State.
June 27–29: Taylorsville Dayzz
Taylorsville Dayzz will be held at Valley Regional Park, 5100 S. 2700 West, and will include live entertainment, a parade, a car show, carnival rides, a "Ralph Breaks the Internet" screening, fireworks and more. Most activities are free.
June 29: LOVELOUD
Kesha will headline the third LOVELOUD festival, the brainchild of Imagine Dragons frontman Dan Reynolds. Other performers include Tegan & Sara, Martin Garrix, K. Flay and more. The event will be held at Usana Amphitheater, 5150 Upper Ridge Rd in West Valley City. Tickets for the festival, which begins at 2:30 p.m., start at $29 and can be purchased here. Proceeds benefit local and national LGBTQ+ charities.
Utah Valley
June 22–30: Lehi Round-Up WeekEnjoy events like a picnic in the park, art shows, a barbecue, miniature float parade and more at Lehi’s Round-Up Week, culminating in a weekend rodeo. Locations and pricing vary by event; find more info here.
Northern Utah
June 28–Aug. 10: Deer Valley Music FestivalThe Deer Valley Music Festival is the summer home of the Utah Symphony. This year’s festival kicks off with Chris Botti and the Utah Symphony on June 28 at the Snow Park Outdoor Amphitheater, 2250 Deer Valley Dr. in Park City. Tickets start at $15.
Southern Utah
June 26–29: Bryce Canyon Annual Astronomy FestivalThe 18th annual festival will have telescopes available and feature various astronomy-themed activities and programs. Keynote speaker will be Dr. Amber Straughn, associate director of astrophysics science at NASA.
June 27–Oct. 12: Utah Shakespeare Festival
The Utah Shakespeare Festival returns to Cedar City starting June 27, with "Macbeth" and "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat" as its opening-night performances. Ticket prices, venues and plays vary; find a full schedule here.
June 28–30: Panguitch Valley Balloon Rally & 5K
Watch dozens of balloons rise into the sky in the morning, then head to historic Main Street on Saturday evening for the balloon glow. A 5K race will take place on Saturday morning as the balloons take off.
