There’s no doubt that choosing the features and inclusions when you’re building a new home is an exciting process – but it can also be a little overwhelming with so many options available! From beautiful stone benchtops in the kitchen, to stunning fixtures in your bathrooms, the right inclusions can take your new home to the next level. If you’re not sure where to start, here are some of the must have inclusions and features that are trending right now.
Since the pandemic, people have been spending much more at home. This has had a dramatic influence on key trends, when it comes to inclusions and features – with home organisation and storage solutions taking the number one position.
Online home design platform, Houzz, found that custom smart storage solutions topped the list of most wanted house features. Online searches for a butler’s pantry were up 311% compared to 2021, while searches for garage storage increased by 90%, followed by built-in robes, which were up 77%. Mudroom searches rose by 64%, while searches for walk-in robes increased by 58%.
A mudroom is simply an entryway that functions as a drop zone/storage area for frequently used items, and it’s becoming increasingly popular in new home builds. You may like to include a bench seat for putting on and taking off shoes. You can also install wall hooks to hang bags, hats and jackets. There’s a great range of designer options available! A cupboard or shelving with baskets are also popular for storing school bags, gym gear, and other bits and pieces that usually get dumped at the front door or on the kitchen bench.
The walk-in robe is another must have inclusion that can’t be overlooked. And you don’t have to be a fashionista to enjoy a walk-in wardrobe! It’s a valuable addition to any home, and gives clothes room to breathe, minimising mould and mildew.
And remember, while space might be finite, creativity isn’t. So make the most of underutilised zones, such as hallways, kitchen nooks and wall space for smart storage solutions.
If you’re looking to add value to your home, the kitchen is an important room to focus on, when it comes to inclusions and features.
Butler’s Pantry – As mentioned above, a walk-in butler’s pantry is a highly sought after feature. It’s a great place to store large platters, tableware, glasses, linen and much more. Plus, it helps keep your kitchen clutter-free!
Premium Appliances – Insist on quality appliances when looking at builders’ inclusions. 900mm wide appliances are not only great to use, but they look fabulous too.
Stone Benchtops – This is one of the first things buyers fall in love with when they walk into a display home. Available in a wide range of colours, textures and finishes, stone benchtops bring a sense of sophistication to your kitchen. They are also becoming increasingly popular for bathrooms and laundries.
Open plan living spaces are also trending with new homebuyers. Unlike traditional closed-off rooms, combined kitchen, lounge and dining areas create a feeling of extra space.
High Ceilings – Add a luxurious feeling and sense of space, light and openness to your new home with high ceilings. They also provide the opportunity to create a stunning focal point with statement pendant lights.
Natural Light – Larger windows and sliding doors are a wonderful way to add ambience and let extra natural light in.
Not only does an extra-wide front door create a grand entry, but it also adds to your new home’s street appeal. Painting your front door a bold or contrasting colour is also popular right now. Consider pastel pink, navy blue, black, or even top trending lavender, to name just a few. It’s a great way to make a statement, without breaking the budget!
Often looking more like something you’d find in a resort spa, it’s no surprise that the bathroom has the most potential luxury inclusions – with inclusions such as freestanding baths, oversized showers and mirrors, floating cabinetry and gorgeous, quality tapware. Beautiful feature tiles are also being used to create a bespoke design that oozes style and sophistication.
A greater connection with nature has become a top trend since the pandemic. Ideal for outdoor dining, an open plan alfresco area provides a seamless transition from the living area to the outdoors, making it the perfect choice for those who love to entertain, or just want to relax and enjoy their garden.
At Hallmark Homes, we pride ourselves not only on the wide range of quality inclusions we offer as standard, but also on our great value prices. Our Selection Centre Consultants are experts when it comes to creating the perfect home for you and are well-versed in all the latest home trends. They will personally guide you through all your selections, ensuring that everything you choose works together seamlessly. They will also help you with all of your choices when it comes to appliances, finishes, fixtures, home styling tips, plus much more. Our Selection Centre, Select by Hallmark, is exclusive to Hallmark Homes’ clients, and entry is by appointment only.
Along with Select by Hallmark, you’ll also find exciting ideas that spark your imagination for your new home on our Inspiration Gallery pages. Here you’ll find inspiration for the kitchen, dining, living room, bedrooms, bathroom, activity rooms and home office, and you may even find ideas to help you maximise your alfresco space and make the most of the Southeast Queensland weather! Our Inspiration Gallery also showcases a variety of styles, including Contemporary, Coastal, Farmhouse, Mediterranean and Mid-Century Modern, and you can view videos of all our current display homes.
So if you’re thinking of building a new home in South East Queensland and you’d like to know more about Hallmark Homes’ Harmony and Inspire inclusions, have a chat to one of our experienced consultants. Come and visit one of our display centres or check out our virtual tours and house plans from the comfort of your own home. If you have any questions about our single storey, acreage or narrow lot home designs, or the house and land packages we currently have available, please contact us today.
Well-planned kitchens and bathrooms can add enormous value to your home but many people prioritise aesthetic over practicality! We have created this guide to make sure you get it right the first time! Here are the top 10 bungles you should try and avoid.
