2020 Design Trends for Manufactured Housing
Manufactured homes are not what they used to be. Each year, we see more and more options within the manufactured housing industry – new floorplans and layouts, expanded versatility, new green initiatives, and refreshed design options to choose from. In fact, one of the most rewarding benefits of investing in a manufactured home is the freedom of customization. Following, we take a look at some of the new and emerging design trends in manufactured housing. Look for these designs to gain more and more traction as we head into 2020.
Site-Built Sophistication
Homebuyers these days want the affordability of a manufactured home but with the types of high-end features common in a site-built home – hardwood cabinets, painted finishes, high ceilings, and a variety of carpet and wall colors. Luckily, the way in which manufactured homes are fabricated allows for more amenities and updated aesthetics. The possibilities are virtually endless. All of the amenities you can find in a site-built home can be added to manufactured homes.
For example, drywall finishes – the process of applying paper or fiberglass tape over the joints between pieces of installed drywall, then covering the taped seams and filling the screw or nail holes with drywall compound – appear to be trending, as drywall mimics the norm of traditional site-built homes.
Neutral Tones
Neutral colors — white, black, gray, beige, etc. — will always be a classic, and their popularity today reinforces that belief. There is a reason why designers commonly choose neutral walls, especially in modern interiors, as it allows the focal point of the room to be centered around high-quality furniture, décor, and the architecture of the layout.
In particular, gray continues to be one of the most popular hues because, being a neutral color, it covers a wide range of combinations and styles that, in the next year, will be bolder when combined with vibrant colors. It can be applied to paint interior walls and furniture decoration. The same goes for gray carpets and textiles.
Window Maximization
Contemporary homebuyers appear to be seeking an abundance of windows throughout their homes, and because manufactured houses are able to be customized piece by piece, there is a ton of opportunity for maximizing the availability of natural light on the property.
For example, many manufactured homes can be customized with a welcoming entrance, which can include brightening accent colors, sidelights, and transom windows. Skylights can also be scattered throughout the ceilings of the home.
Open Floor Plans
Ideas regarding the use of space are evolving. In the past, bedroom space was often sacrificed for larger dining and living rooms. But now, larger bedrooms are rising in popularity. In response, designers are finding ways to maximize space in the home’s communal areas — installing an eating island and removing the dining table, for example, or breaking down room-enclosing walls to create a more open and inviting floor plan.
Interior-wise, for a cozy environment in a larger room, think about zoning. Place sofas close enough together to create an area that’s clearly designated for gathering round rather than having them too spaced out or floating at the edges. In a smaller room, measure, measure and measure again – and look for a compact design.
Flex Space
Flex space – rooms which are not designated as a bedroom or anything else – has become a primary initiative in manufactured homes. Homeowners seem to be requesting space that can serve various purposes; maybe that space will become an office, playroom, or craft room.
The flex room is something that retailers will continue to do really well with. Homebuyers appreciate the extra space, as it can be repurposed for changing needs.
High-Tech Features
Technology comes to play in the new manufactured home models, too, particularly those with modern features. Think smart thermostat systems, keyless entry commands, built-in power strips, water filtration, energy-conserving lighting, etc.
One innovative tech feature in particular is a game changer when it comes to anything from hosting an event to just general, everyday life: built-in tablet mounts. The tablet mount feature allows homeowners to consolidate multiple tech devices into one information hub.
From there, they can control several of their favorite tech features (such as their surround sound stereo, programmable thermostat, blinds, and multimedia library) from one central location within their manufactured home. The tablet mount docks onto a wall in the most trafficked room of the manufactured home – say the living room or kitchen – for easy access.
Sustainability
In 1976, HUD set standards for manufactured housing which guide their construction, design, and performance. Strict standards mean that today’s manufactured homes are both safe and energy efficient. Even more, in 2007, the U.S. Department of Energy established the Energy Independence and Security Act to establish energy conservation standards for manufactured housing.
Today’s manufactured homes feature energy-saving appliances and practices, and are built with infrastructure that meets quality, green standards.
Be a Trend-Setter
The Alabama Manufactured Housing Association provides a number of resources that can help you stay in-the-know and on top of all emerging design trends and evolutions associated with manufactured housing. Browse our library of manufactured home retailers to connect with the professionals who can custom-design the home of your dreams. Check out our blog resources to keep up with what’s new in the industry.
