Owner Suites: Latest trends in master beds and baths

Many say that the kitchen is “the heart of the home.” Builders pay a great deal of attention to detail in the kitchen. Buyers also spend tons of money in the kitchen and in other gathering and welcoming areas such as the family room and entryway. The style in these areas sets the tone for the entire house and they serve as the epicenter of the home. The kitchen and family room are where everyone congregates. These areas are used for eating, gathering, doing homework and entertaining. Recently, the demand for elaborate and inviting entertainment areas such as theater rooms, outdoor living spaces, courtyards, bars and game rooms has grown. These spaces are built with the comfortability of guests in mind.

Many buyers are searching for floor plans that offer accessible master suites that have no steps to enter. A floor plan with a master suite on the main level helps the homeowner ease into growing older. Having a master bedroom on the main floor may eliminate any issues that a person may have with repeatedly traveling up and down a set of stairs. Although a main floor master bedroom was once considered a feature associated with empty nesters, the trend is increasing in popularity with younger buyers.

Also, anyone who watches HGTV can tell you that shiplap is definitely in high demand. However, the distressed and shabby chic look of shiplap is being replaced by more formal finishes such glossy paint or deep, rich stain, for a more refined and sophisticated look in the master bedroom. Builders are also adding shiplap, wallpaper and other coverings to vaulted ceilings. The unique and creative wall coverings are also being used to inset deeply coffered ceilings in owner’s suites.

No need to visit a spa when you can bring the relaxation home with a spa-inspired master bath. The bathroom isn’t just for function; it is a place to escape to also. The spa and resort inspired master bathroom is a hot trend that will only get more steamy as builders add more luxury features such as oversized walk-in shower rooms. The centerpiece of the spa bath has now become the shower, although the stand alone tub trend is still in high demand. Showers with frameless heavy-glass enclosures have a designer appearance and deliver a spa-like extravagance to the master bath. “With the addition of the oversized showers, builders are having to become more creative with the configuration of the master bath,” says McCollum. “One of our models even has a his and hers shower entrance.”

The days of one shower head are over. Buyers are opting for multiple shower heads to serve different functions. Installing multiple shower heads allows the user a choice of which type of water stream they desire based on their needs or mood. Also, shower heads are being installed at different or adjustable heights to accommodate different users’ needs. Of course no steam shower would be complete without a shower seat. Troy George noted that several CalAtlantic model homes are featuring spacious showers with bench seating. The built-in or drop-down shower seat is an innovative new trend that will definitely have owners singing in the shower.