“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!)