New data from the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Home Design Trends Survey is revealing the latest trends in home and property design.

According to the survey, home sizes are stabilizing while accessibility and overall designs for aging in place remain popular. In addition, outdoor spaces continue to be a focus with outdoor living spaces, blended indoor/outdoor areas, and outdoor firepits topping the list. Rental units on the property, such as accessory dwellings, also remain popular, growing in popularity along with micro-housing options.

"The overall square footage of homes is now leveling off, and is even decreasing in entry level homes,” said AIA Chief Economist Kermit Baker, PhD, Hon. AIA. "Building costs play such a big factor now that trying to design smaller homes with more livability is the goal."

With lot sizes often limited in older established neighborhoods, many clients are scaling back their home addition/renovation projects or canceling them altogether due to rising construction costs.  For those unable to afford new homes or extensive remodels, there are still ways to achieve desired looks within existing structures. Clients are requesting decorative tile work and wall coverings to affordably add personality and color while also being cost-effective solutions for updates. Smart appliances which reduce energy consumption without sacrificing style or convenience are increasingly popular.

Findings of the report also revealed residential architecture firm business conditions for the first quarter of 2023, which included:

-Project billings, inquiries, and design contracts started 2023 showing moderate weakness.

-Project backlogs at residential architecture firms remain healthy overall.

-Despite ongoing weakness at firms in the Northeast and West, business conditions were strong at firms in the Midwest.

The AIA Home Design Trends Survey is conducted quarterly with a panel of more than 300 architecture firms that concentrate their practice in the residential sector. More information on the latest survey results can be reviewed on AIA’s website.