When it comes to making a house (or a condo unit) feel like a home, customization is key. Savvy developers have taken note, and abandoned the “one size fits all” approach in favor of an individualized “one size fits me” mindset.

Many developers now offer efficiently priced upgrades and build out complete design centers where homeowners can tailor their space to their needs and style, moving beyond lighting fixtures and window treatments to include tricked-out tech packages and upgraded sleeping sanctuaries.

Becoming more involved in the design process not only empowers unit owners, keeping them engaged throughout the search process, but when executed correctly, can create a significant supplementary revenue stream for developers who are years from fully monetizing their finished project. 

We sat down with Bisnow partner Polaris Pacific’s vice president of design services Kathryn Baker to find out what today’s homeowners and condo dwellers are looking for in terms of incredible design features.

The Master Bathroom Must Be Masterful

The expectations for the master bathroom have changed drastically. The bathroom represents a key opportunity for architects and developers to really make a statement.

Prospective homebuyers are looking for a tranquil, spa-like room that can be used to de-stress from the demands of urban living. Master bathrooms should include a large walk-in shower or “wet room” with a seating section and recessed shelving, a focally positioned freestanding tub and floating vanities and separate water closet with bidet, Kathryn says.

Preferred materials tend toward natural stone such as Carrara, Linac marble or porcelain tile that should be installed floor to ceiling, while plumbing fixtures must be of the highest quality (likely chrome).

As a primary space to prepare for the day, lighting is an important component in the master bathroom—a great choice is recessed LED bulbs with an elegant chandelier, like the one in the master bath at The Pacific shown above.

Where The Magic Happens

The master bedroom is also enjoying a renaissance, with renewed attention from prospective buyers.

While entertaining and public spaces, like the kitchen, and bathrooms have typically stolen the design show, there is an increased emphasis on the bedroom, which makes sense, as this is where people spend the majority of their time at home.

Refined details like fireplaces, wood paneling, soft, natural lighting and elegant drapes can transform an often nondescript room into a welcoming retreat. Wherever possible in high-rise buildings, Kathryn recommends developers position the master bedroom to receive a beautiful view.

The Smart Home Of The Future

There is a new norm for modern convenience—technophile homeowners expect they can set their environment from a portable or remote device, possibly even before getting home.

An encouraging trend for designers is that developers are expressing a lot more interest in providing a pre-wiring infrastructure in the base building spec to support a wider variety of smart-home technology, such as Savant and Control 4.

Top specs include low-voltage wiring for motorized shades, CAT 6 wiring for faster internet connections, in-wall speakers, wireless access points for guaranteed transmittal speed in steel and concrete buildings, and a designated equipment area to house a 24x24-inch equipment rack. Aesthetically, this eliminates wall-cluttering light switches and outlets to leave clean walls primed for personalization.

New homeowners are able to easily customize their homes with the technology of their choice, centrally controlling lighting, HVAC, shades and AV. 

What's Cooking In The Kitchen?

The decision to shoulder the extra cost to deliver higher-end kitchens makes sense for ROI. With this in mind, developers are steering away from standardized kitchens, favoring more modular kitchens with a substantial island or peninsula.

Minimal hardware and sleek low-profile countertops, such as Neolith, provide an incredibly elegant, yet simple, aesthetic, Kathryn says. As in every room, lighting makes a difference and we’ll see it continue to trend toward recessed LED or a combination of recessed and pendants. Integrated appliances and convection and steam cooking will become common.

Let's Finish This

Custom as the new standard may ostensibly be an oxymoron, but new condo buyers today demand and expect the opportunity to customize many of the finishes in their home.

By offering stunning hardwood flooring, appliance packages, closet systems and custom built-ins, a variety of window coverings, bath accessories and smart-home technology, you allow homebuyers to create their own unique space and build the cost of the improvements into their new home loan. When already spending in excess of $1,500/SF, buyers are willing to shell out some extra dough to create a unique space.

To learn more about this Bisnow content sponsor, click here.