“Then & Now” — our “06880” series showing now-demolished homes, and their replacements — has generated plenty of interest.
Readers in Westport — and those who once lived here (some in the houses featured) — have opinions on residential architecture, “then and now.”
But tastes change. What’s new? What’s on the horizon?
We asked our friends at KMS Team at Compass. They say:
We are seeing a return to more warmth emerging over the last 1 1/2 to 2 years. People want peace and quality, in a place that invites them to settle in and get comfortable.
Real estate staging can often look the same over time. Something more personal or unique stands out.
Now, in a sea of sameness — at almost every price point – more interesting interiors and exteriors have emerged. People want homes and furnishings with a story or personality.
New construction, with old-fashioned front porch and shutters. (Photo/Michael Mombello)
There is a new leaning toward collecting over time with an eye toward enduring quality, not a price tag.
People seek out homes that do not feel similar or mass marketed. They want their residences to be more curated, like their travel and vacations.
New net-zero construction on Westport Avenue. It just came on the market.
There is always a mix. If we had to summarize, it feels a bit like Modern Farmhouse is giving way to a warmer, more earthy Modern Cottage vibe.
Things are moving away from stark minimalism. More natural materials and textures are being employed: natural stone, plaster, mixed woods and linen.
Natural look, with plenty of light.
Defined rooms are coming back in favor. There is a preference for fewer, better things, collected over time. Enduring quality and design integrity stand the test of time.
Exterior
- Shutters are back, and can offer “from the curb” distinction
- Dormers and shed dormers add roofline interest, and provide additional light on upper floors
- Patios and crushed stone areas are favored over decks
Patio on Katydid Lane, Weston (Photo/Estative Media)
- Outbuildings: for both work and play, they add “compound cool” to a parcel of property
- Porches: front, back or side, they are appreciated. Covered and open, they grant shade and protection from the sun or a summer storm.
- Ceiling fans keep the air moving, and the bugs away
- Raised, protected garden and vegetable beds
Raised bed and organic garden. (Photo/Borgatta Photography)
- Flower choices and gardens that respect the natural landscape
- Garden antiques: Well-worn pieces that appear to have been there forever give the yard a sense of history and timelessness
Interior
- Natural materials and textures
- Beams
- Wooden, unpainted casement openings in walnut and oak
- Mid-tone flooring, not too white or bleached, or too dark and lifeless
- Butcher block-topped islands and counters
- More color, but strategically used
Family room; darker shade on walls, planked wood ceiling. (Photo/Christian Vinan for 360 Virtual Photography)
- Vintage, tribal type oriental carpets and rugs
- Warm and earthy palettes, and more lived-in interiors.
- Softer whites — restaurant tones like butter yellow or light cream
- Small, behind-the-scenes service kitchens or butler’s pantries
- Dining rooms
- Antique finishes on contemporary forms, and the return of silver accents
- Free-standing showers that feel spa-like
- Natural wood kitchens, and wood in general
New kitchen. (Photo/Estative Media)
- Additional tile details in kitchens, bathrooms, mudrooms and entry halls
- Cast iron enameled sinks and tubs
One other trend to note: The first-time home-buying age has steadily increased over the last few years — dramatically. Depending upon what you read, the median age is now 40.
(“06880” covers Westport real estate — and much more. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)
That Net Zero house is the ugliest house I’ve ever seen! You couldn’t give it to me to live in. Is this what Westport has become? The house is disgusting. However, that new construction farmhouse is very appealing and that house I would buy!