Since early 2020, numerous surveys have shown a significant bump in the number of people who are moving from the cities to the suburbs. As a portion of the population shifts from one setting to another, it’s likely that some of the most prominent design trends and other aspects of city life will soon take root in suburban areas as well.
According to a Forbes article, “The relatively small percentage of people leaving major metros won’t materially affect those cities in the long run, but the SMCs and suburbs they move to will benefit immensely from their arrival.” This is wonderful news for anyone who wants to preserve some of the look, feel, and flavor they were used to in the city.
Here are a few tips for architects and other specifiers to help homeowners bring urban flair to the ‘burbs while also embracing the suburban sophistication of their new setting:
Establish Trendy Together Spaces
There’s nothing like the shared experience of cosmopolitan culture, even though each city has a flavor all its own. To evoke this sense of shared, common experiences in a suburban setting, look no further than a family’s favorite “together spaces.” Incorporate sleek, industrial features and fixtures in the kitchen, or let the fireplace surround soar like a skyscraper in a two-story, lofted living room.
Justin Krug
Open Concept Great Room featuring Echo Ridge Country Ledgestone from Cultured Stone
Transitional spaces are also important when reimagining the flow and feel of a modern home. Create more open sight lines by transforming an interior wall into an indoor window. For the indoor/outdoor transitional space between the kitchen and the patio, consider a pass-thru feature with a half-height opening glass wall.
Empower Cosmopolitan Customization
There are a number of ways to imbue your clients’ suburban homes with personality. From contemporary color palettes with striking color contrasts and sleek architectural details, to high-end fixtures and finishes, personalizing each space will make a statement for years to come. Enlarge the size of exterior windows to let more light in and incorporate a bright, linear stone profile to enhance the presence of that light within a space. For cooler evenings, draw attention to the fire with a linear fireplace surround.
Cultured Stone
Interior Installation of Span Hewn Stone from Cultured Stone
Whether it’s brass-colored hardware to enhance your kitchen cabinets or a statement lamp in the entryway, just a few thoughtful design enhancements can bring a chic, cosmopolitan vibe to a suburban abode.
Embrace the Outdoor Space
Whether the property has a dedicated yard of its own or shares common amenities with neighbors, a suburban locale typically provides outdoor options that aren’t available in many city residences. Help homeowners embrace the natural amenities of their new locale by building connections between the interior and exterior spaces, especially through material selections such as wood, brick, and stone veneer.
Cultured Stone
Airy Outdoor Space featuring Kulm Fire Bowl from Kindred Outdoors + Surrounds
Equip the outdoor space for entertaining by creating a conversation space with elegant seating around a fire bowl or outdoor fireplace. This will help your clients set the stage for years of meaningful moments under the stars.
Once the work is done and this urban/suburban customization process comes to an end, your clients will be able to say they’ve enjoyed the best of both worlds.
About Sarah Lograsso
Sarah Lograsso is the Director of Marketing and Product Design for Westlake Royal Stone Solutions brands (Cultured Stone, Eldorado Stone, Kindred Outdoors + Surrounds, Versetta Stone, Dutch Quality Stone, StoneCraft and ProStone), where she manages all of the brands’ marketing, advertising and promotional projects and objectives. She is well versed in manufactured stone and brick veneer, masonry techniques, biophilic design, fireplace surrounds, outdoor living, fire bowls, color and texture, and up-to-date industry and market trends.
