In the ever-evolving landscape of real estate, traditional floor plans are undergoing a radical transformation. Long relied upon for their straightforward, analytical bird’s-eye views of homes, these plans are being reimagined to capture the imagination of potential buyers and renters. Instead of standard labels like “living room” and “kitchen,” developers and realtors are now embracing action-based floor plans, using terms such as “relax,” “cook,” and “dream” to convey the purpose of each space, thus aligning with the lifestyle aspirations of modern buyers.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Designer: Laura Hodges
CMO: Wendy Forsythe
Location: Charlotte, North Carolina
The Presley Uptown in Charlotte, North Carolina, is a prime example of this innovative approach. By swapping conventional room names for verbs, these plans evoke a sense of lifestyle and emotion, encouraging prospective homeowners to envision how they would actually inhabit these spaces. This concept is not only creative but also taps into the evolving priorities of younger buyers who seek homes that represent more than mere functionality. According to industry experts, this action-centric labeling can inspire buyers by portraying homes as hubs for creativity, self-care, and community.
This modern approach to floor plans presents both opportunities and challenges. On the one hand, such designations invite a refreshing perspective on how one can engage with home environments. Emotion-based labels like “retreat” or “gathering space” empower potential buyers to imagine dynamic living spaces that foster relaxation and companionship. On the other hand, this shift might lead to initial buyer confusion, especially among those accustomed to traditional floor plan terminology. Additionally, this renaming trend could complicate appraisals and resales, necessitating further clarification during these processes due to the ambiguous nature of the labels.
While some experts applaud the trend for residential properties, others see its primary application in commercial contexts where spaces are intentionally designed to evoke certain reactions. Designer Laura Hodges suggests that in areas such as hotels, spas, or restaurants, action-based labels can enhance the experience by encouraging interaction with the space in a deliberate manner. However, she cautions that in private, custom residential projects, these terms should be carefully tailored to the client’s personal style and preferences, in order to complement the overall design intent without overshadowing crucial design elements.
Despite some reservations, this evolving trend finds precedent in large historic and contemporary properties where distinct, expressive names have historically been used to differentiate various rooms. Properties like lavish estates and conceptual home projects have employed creative room names to spark interest and provide each space with its own unique identity. Such practices underscore the potential staying power of action-based floor plans, suggesting that they may well become a staple feature in real estate marketing strategies as they redefine how potential buyers visualize their futures in new homes.
In conclusion, the adoption of action-based floor plans marks a creative and innovative shift in real estate, mirroring the ways people increasingly wish to personalize their living environments. While offering imaginative possibilities, this trend also poses certain practical challenges, emphasizing the need for balance in its application, particularly in residential settings. However, as homebuyers continue to seek spaces that reflect their lifestyles and values, the empowerment found in these visually engaging and emotionally resonant floor plans could indeed make envisioning life in a new space more lively and enjoyable.
