By Debra Simon

 

The looks I spotted at a luxury idea house developed by the National Association of Home Builders will be coming soon to Triangle homes near you. The trade group’s 140,000 members build 80 percent of all new homes in the United States.

 

Each year, the organization brings together cutting-edge companies to display the latest concepts in architecture, construction and design in the New American Home.

 

This year, a $10 million, 9,000-square-foot oasis of relaxation was built in an upscale suburb of Las Vegas. During the association’s annual convention in the city, it offered tours of the show home.

 

 

 

 

Not in the market for a mega-house? No worries. The styles displayed there can translate to any size or price abode.

 

These 15 ideas are on the horizon:

1. Connectivity and wall touch pads are everywhere throughout the house.
2. Warm tones predominate along with gold and brass.
3. Natural motifs and materials, such as wood, are in fashion.
4. A seamless, easy flow is present within each room and room-to-room.
5. Builders are looking for opportunities to add fireplaces and water accents.
6. Wallpaper’s back! Abstracts match the wall paint color.
7. Storage is maximized.
8. Cabinetry works without handles.
9. Textured walls are popular.
10. Closets are finished with organizational shelves and cabinets.
11. Light fixtures are used as art while large art dominates walls.
12. Bidet-stye toilets and large showers are in vogue.
13. Mudrooms are classed up with built-in seating.
14. Full glass walls open the home to the exterior.
15. Outdoor living rooms boost the common patio.

 

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