The luxury real estate market is continually evolving to satisfy the needs of the most exclusive buyers. This year, the concept of home has taken on new meaning, enriched by the challenges of remote work, confinement, global warming, and health concerns. As a result, luxury residences are shifting to build a life to relish.
This year’s trends in real estate prioritize life quality, reconnecting with nature, expanding spaces for work, growing your food, and embracing new technologies to make life easier. In this editorial, we will identify the most enthralling trends in North America.
1) Luscious Home Offices
While some affluent buyers return to work in person, others have happily stayed remote (or in a hybrid scheme). However, working from home can be disruptive to tranquility and concentration, especially when a residence is not designed as a workspace. A well-designed office with certain features can inspire energy and focus.
In the Muskoka luxury real estate market, the issue of home offices presented an opportunity to enjoy breathtaking lake views out the window. Design comes in many unique forms, but a designated workspace has become a staple in every functionally-thought-out home. In Southern Ontario, a warm studio that smells of books – in the classic Victorian library way – reaches perfection.
2) Sustainable Homes and Green Buildings
Today, most buyers are highly concerned about the impact their lifestyle has on the planet. Yes, we want to enjoy life, but in a way that harmonizes with our planet.
This concern is reflected in how our homes are built and designed. Luxury buyers demand features like electric car charging stations, air purifiers, greenhouse monitoring systems, solar panels, and energy-efficient fireplaces more than ever before.
3) Quality Of Life Is Paramount
People value the quality of their life now more than ever. Spaces designed for delight and relaxation have become fundamental parts of the luxury home experience.
Massage rooms and saltwater pools are becoming favourites when devising soothing times. Wine cellars are in demand, as home dinners become a priority, and top-notch hosts want to wow their guests with an exquisite collection.
4) Home Automation
A home that doesn’t integrate technology into each living space is one that is missing out on significant improvements to everyday life. An obsolete heating system or a kitchen with old gadgets can make life quite unpleasant. In 2023, it’s not only time to get rid of the impractical; it’s time to suit up with the ultimate tech to make home life smooth and simpler.
While practicality and comfort have always been a priority for affluent buyers, there is now a high demand for smart homes. Boutique residence complexes with technology that caters to health and well-being are gaining popularity. Ambient computing, powered by artificial intelligence, seamlessly simplifies life by integrating our daily routines with kitchen and bathroom smart gadgets. We are talking about digital refrigerators, smart toilets, and digital showers, just to mention a few.
5) Gardens Are A Pleasure To Your Eyes And Your Belly
Since research has revealed the health consequences of eating processed or genetically modified foods, we have all started paying special attention to what we eat. Everyone wants organic and fresh meals because our health is a matter of first importance.
6) Purification is Plentiful
Drinking or washing food with unpurified water becomes concerning when you think of all the bacteria, salts, and metals that tap water contains. This is why high-end home water filtration and purification systems have been a must for decades.
Whole-house water purification systems come with more filtering processes than ever before. They combine different materials and techniques, like UV rays, carbon, ceramics, and colloidal silver, to remove toxic chemicals and bacteria while adding minerals that are good for the body. This provides safe water for cooking, cleaner sinks, and the best water to take care of your skin and hair during the shower.
7) Naturehoods On The Rise
The dream residence no longer belongs in a neighbourhood but rather in what we call “naturehoods.” Affluent buyers have always been fascinated by natural and pristine surroundings, but today the pull is stronger than ever.
Muskoka offers many great naturehoods with luxury cottages available. Just picture yourself living surrounded by luscious greenery and picturesque lake views. Roof-to-floor windows contribute to an ideal experience, enjoying a warm tea, bundled up in a blanket while admiring the inherent beauty of nature. It’s the best choice for adventure seekers who don’t want to leave comfort behind.
We hope this editorial provides you with some validation and perspective on the trends you might be noticing around you. If you are seeking your dream home or cottage or wish to invest in a Muskoka property, we would be glad to share our expertise.