The 1920’s saw the introduction of two influences on Australian homes driven by post-war exuberance and a desire for modern luxury. Californian Bungalow design captured American glamour through glazing and spacious verandahs, while the emergence of the European Art Deco movement brought simple, clean shapes and an easy aesthetic that would come to define the next decade.

Almost 100 years later, the home design of the new 20’s may not be ‘roaring’, but rather defined by energy efficiency, new building technologies and evolving design trends, according to experts from across the industry.

1. A window into energy efficiency

“Energy efficiency will continue to dictate building design in the 2020s. Research shows that up to 40 per cent of heat escapes from homes via windows, while double glazing can decrease heat loss by almost 30 per cent1,” says Christine Evans, marketing director of Stegbar.

“Building regulations will continue to push green building, new technologies in glazing and improved product engineering and design. This will facilitate better energy efficiency within the home and reduce the reliance on artificial climate controls,” she adds.

2. A Hamptons home of our own

“The Hamptons style will evolve from its traditional classic blue and white into an Australian look that imitates its unique landscapes, with the additions of muted greens and mustards” says principle at Indah Island and James Hardie ambassador, Natalee Bowen. “We’re more informal than the “high-society” Americans that created the look and that will come through more in the next decade. Linea weatherboard will remain a staple due to its ability to cope with our climate, while elements of other design styles will be added to create different takes, from Hamptons-Scandi to Hamptons-country, this will keep the look evolving into the 2030’s.”

3. Warmer tones and comeback colours

“The mid-century vibe will continue to make a comeback in a big way,” says Christal Fyentzou, interiors and design consultant and founder of Brisbane renovation company, Zou Build. “We will see the return of neutrals and warmer, earthy hues in home designs, such as mustard, terracotta, and rusty, muddy colours that will work nicely to create sanctuary spaces.” Nostalgia has commonly been an influential force on trends, especially when it comes to the way we style our homes. 2020 Houses will see antique and contemporary pieces sit perfectly together, and achieve quirky, unique spaces that reflect their owners.

4. A new construction

“The biggest trend going forward will be building complete sections of houses in factories and then taking them to the site and connecting them together,” says James Hardie ambassador and architect, Joe Snell of a trend that will likely see a move away from masonry so that factories can build complete sections of homes that can be easily transported. “One of the biggest opportunities from this change is more quality control and more time in the design phase, to which all add up to have lesser excuses for poor design and inefficient building. Houses will go more toward the ways cars are built and tested before being used and occupied.”

5. Time to change

“The construction industry is set to go back into growth within the next 12-18 months, making 2020 the perfect time to re-evaluate how we build,” says James Hardie product manager, Christian Hansen. “The market we had, has created a fear of missing out as homes were snapped up. The decline gives home owners more time to build a vision and a brief for their property. At the same time, hungry builders are now more likely to respond to unique design requirements”.

“In terms of looks, we’re seeing a rise in simplicity and reduced consumption, which is driving a trend for better designed houses. Clean lines and contemporary housing styles, such as mid-century modern and minimalist aesthetics will continue to rise in popularity as home owners try to escape the clutter and business of modern-day life. This translates into more open and livable homes, with a focus on comfort and style,” he concludes.

6. Saving water without sacrificing your shower experience

“The ability to be water-wise in our homes is crucial to a sustainable future”, says Nick Swan, Methven brand manager. “One of the easiest ways to be water efficient in your home is to have taps and showerheads that reduce water consumption, and this can start with checking they have a good rating within the Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards (WELS) scheme.”

“Consumers need not choose between an efficient shower and a shower that feels good, which is why we have seen a rising interest in consumers requesting more efficient showerheads since the introduction of the fourth star to the WELS rating system. The WELS registry shows that Methven tops the rankings and continues to lead the market by providing the largest array of four-star rated products in market, which is a particular passion for Methven – to deliver amazing water experiences which don’t’ cost the earth” he continues.

7. Making the most out of small spaces

The size of an average house built in 2018/19 is 228.8 square metres, that is a 1.3 per cent decrease from last year . Often, this steady decrease in property sizes translates into backyard and entertaining areas that are smaller. Luckily, whatever sized space you have to work with, from vertical gardens to built-in furniture and water features, there are countless ways to create an exceptional outdoor room to entertain, relax and spend time with the family

“Australians love the outdoors but are finding it increasingly difficult to achieve the right balance between indoor-outdoor living, especially when you have less space to play with” explained Jason Hodges, landscaper and Adbri masonry ambassador. “No matter what size your outside space, you can create a beautiful backyard oasis for relaxing and entertaining family and friends. My top tip is to take time in planning and aim to create a functional outdoor sanctuary that makes the most of your space to create the perfect getaway from the everyday.”

8. Live Smarter with Home Automation

Home automation is continuing to rapidly increase in popularity, with the smart home market worth approximately AUD $1.924 million this year, and household penetration expected to hit 41.9% by 2023 . The adoption of smart home technology, such as Luxaflex® Powerview® Motorisation, for your window furnishings, welcomes elegance, convenience and safety to both your property and lifestyle.

“Personalisation has moved beyond merely heating and lighting,” says Vera Meharg, marketing communications manager for Luxaflex Window Fashions. “Homeowners can take complete control in the management of shading, temperature control, energy efficiency and privacy in their home, all of which can actively reduce energy consumption and amp up security.”

About Stegbar

A leading Australian manufacturer of high-quality windows, doors, shower screens, splashbacks, mirrors and wardrobes, Stegbar’s reputation has been built over 70 years through its commitment to innovative design, outstanding craftsmanship and excellent customer service. It is recognised by architects, builders and homeowners as a trailblazer that helps make dream homes a reality, from inspiration to installation.

About Methven

Methven Limited is a subsidiary of GWA Group Limited and is a market-leading designer and manufacturer of showers, taps and valves. Our business is headquartered in Auckland where we design, develop and manufacture many award-winning products and technologies. Our international operations see our products distributed in Australia, China, UK, Middle East, USA and Europe in addition to our home market of New Zealand. In 2016 we celebrated 130 years of innovation.

About Adbri Masonry

Adbri Masonry is Australia’s leading masonry manufacturer supplying quality concrete bricks, blocks, pavers, retaining walls, erosion control products, architectural masonry solutions and reconstituted stone veneers throughout Australia’s East Coast, South Australia and Tasmania.

About Adbri Ambassador Jason Hodges

Jason Hodges is Australia’s well-loved celebrity landscaper, most notably seen on the Channel Seven lifestyle TV show Better Homes & Gardens. Jason is also a brand ambassador for Australia’s leading masonry manufacturer, Adbri Masonry. Jason is a four-time Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show (MIFGS) Gold medallist.

About Zou Build:

Zou Build is a family-owned building company, established in 2012 based on Brisbane’s Southside. Zou Build specialises in renovations, extensions and also complete smaller domestic building works across homes in all areas of Brisbane.

When you build with Zou Build, you will experience a personal building service. Throughout the process, you’ll enjoy constant interaction and consultations with our builder to ensure minimal stress and maximum quality of workmanship.

About LUXAFLEX® Window Fashions

Luxaflex® Window Fashions is a market-leading brand, offering the nation’s largest range of quality window coverings for inside and outside the home. The suite of products includes blinds, shutters, soft shades and awnings – all with a focus on innovation, durability and style. Luxaflex window coverings provide optimal light control and privacy, are easy to maintain and remain at the cutting edge of design and technology. The brand consistently plays to its unique strengths of superior quality and rich heritage, while constantly innovating to ensure it stays ahead of interior decorating trends.

Most products are still manufactured in Australia, and the brand has unprecedented access to the best window coverings research and development from the US and Europe, ensuring continuing evolution and product excellence. Luxaflex Window Fashions products have been sold and supported by the Hunter Douglas Group in Australia since 1954.

Sarah Buckley

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