Buyers seeking comfort, coziness

The trend toward a warm and cozy environment is influencing the choices of features and materials people make when planning custom homes, says Jeff Samuels, president of Samuels Homes, a Highland Park-based custom builder.

"In working with clients, I have noticed an increased emphasis on making home a comfortable, functional place where family and friends can gather and enjoy themselves without dressing up, driving long distances and pursuing costly entertainments," Samuels says.

"In addition, parents want to make their home appealing to their children and their children's friends, so they can exercise appropriate supervision. The result is an emphasis on comfort and hominess rather than just luxury."

Among the qualities that make a home attractive are warm woods, comfortable furniture, and spaces designed for the special interests of the family.

"Warm-toned woods, fireplaces in several rooms including master bedrooms, and mood lighting are a few of the elements that add a feeling of friendly comfort to a home," Samuels says. "Master bedroom sitting areas are very popular as a retreat within the home.

"Home theaters and media rooms are becoming more popular as technological advances and an increasing number of theater seating options and other equipment enable buyers to create elaborate settings for movie viewing."

Of course, even the most casual entertaining calls for a kitchen with all the comforts.

"At parties, guests gravitate to the kitchen island as they gather in the informal living area," Samuels says. "An imaginatively designed island is not only striking but practical. Cabinets with glass fronts, a variety of counter heights, built-in buffets and butler's pantries with wine coolers are popular. Granite counter and natural materials add warmth to the environment. Screened porches and sun rooms are popular, especially when they adjoin the kitchen and create space for relaxation."

A strong desire for practicality has led to more elaborate mud rooms with benches, lockers and storage.

"Storage space, whether in the kitchen, bedrooms, basement or elsewhere in the home, is important, and so is a computer station in a study area where parents can supervise homework and computer use."

The most flexible space in most homes is the basement or lower level. In this area, residents can indulge their personal interests with home theater, activity areas as well as guest suites and storage.

As home designs continue to evolve to better meet buyer needs, the popularity of custom building is also increasing.

An affiliate of Red Seal Development Corporation, Samuels Homes has created several Northbrook communities and custom homes in the North suburbs.

Call (847) 480-6476 for more information.