The latest in real estate news.
Online Searches Highlight Growing Home Design Trends
CreativaStudio / iStock

Houzz, the popular home design and renovation website, studied user searches from January to March 2024 compared to the same months in 2023 and found the following growing trends:

Organic Modern Design

This style blends sleek lines with natural materials and forms. Searches for “organic modern bedroom” have surged nearly 3.5 times year over year and are growing in popularity in other rooms as well. This design brings warm, neutral colors together with pops of earthy hues such as terra cotta and olive, minimal furnishings, and natural fibers such as subdued wood, stone, bamboo, and clay. Modern metals such as brass complete the tranquil, inviting space.

Dark and Moody Decor

In stark contrast to the serene organic trend, dark and moody decor is gaining popularity. Searches for “moody living room” and “moody kitchen” have more than doubled. “Moody bedroom” is up by 85%, while “dark ceiling” has risen by 60%. Designers use rich browns, dark reds, and deep hues to create cozy, dramatic spaces. Hang a vintage painting or elegant gold mirror to heighten the effect.

Japanese Design

Characterized by simplicity and natural elements, Japanese design is resurging. Searches for “Japandi living room,” which merges Japanese minimalism with Scandinavian functionality, have risen by 48%. Additionally, searches for “wabi-sabi” and “zen garden” are up 44% and 22%, respectively, both focusing on natural, calming materials such as muted walls, simple furnishings, woven rugs, and handcrafted pots. A Japandi living room highlights a desire for a serene, balanced living environment—picture low wooden furniture, neutral-toned cushions, and a handmade clay vase on a minimalist shelf.

Health and Wellness Features

These are trending as homeowners create personal retreats promoting health and relaxation. Searches for “cold plunge,” “indoor sauna,” “home spa,” and “backyard sauna” have increased. There is also a growing desire for natural light, with searches rising for “large windows” and “skylights.” Envision a home spa with an indoor sauna, surrounded by large windows that let in natural light, creating a serene retreat.

Relaxation and Fun Areas

​​​These are becoming essential in homes. Searches for “listening room” have more than doubled, and “living room pianos” have increased by 39%. Outdoor leisure activities like “bocce court” are up by 23%, while indoor spaces such as “bowling alley” and “game room” also have increasing searches. Personalized spaces for children are gaining interest, with searches for “race car bed,” “Jack-and-Jill bathroom,” “teen lounge,” and “kids gaming bedroom” all climbing significantly. Think of a game room, a teen lounge with comfy seating and gaming consoles, or an outdoor bocce court perfect for family gatherings.

Return to newsletter
Our Current/Future Listings & Sales
Village 41
Bel Air Model
Updated & Greenbelt Views
Coming Soon!
Representing Seller
Village 22
Bel Air Model
NEED INVESTOR - Golf Course
Tenant Lease through Aug'25
Representing Seller
Village 20
Amalfi Model
Perimeter Views!
Coming Soon!
Representing Seller
Sharron Parker
Realtor
805-443-1998
sharronbparker@aol.com
DRE #00900167
Meryll Russell
Realtor, Broker
805-405-0411
meryllrussell@hotmail.com
DRE #01435748
Jon Niemann
Realtor
805-603-7060
cantamar@me.com
DRE #02104018