Affordable Million Dollar Details

At the International Builders Show last week, Dominick gave a presentation for the NAHB regarding "Affordable Million Dollar Details." The following is a summary of some of the important topics he presented about.

2010 Trends from Entrepreneur Magazine: sustainability, buying local, decreased consumer spending, growing number of entrepreneurs, alcohol beverage industry growing, and pet supplies industry also growing.

So, what does this mean in terms of the architectural / housing market?

Today's buyers are no longer looking for the 'McMansions' that were built a decade ago. Families want smaller homes that are easier to maintain, less expensive to operate, with less formal spaces and more flexible spaces, such as computer stations, mud rooms, second floor laundry, costco rooms, and hobby rooms. They want a floor plan designed to complement their lifestyle and increase family interaction. A home with quality design features and sustainable, healthy products. They want to entertain friends inside their home through bar areas, butlers pantries, and media rooms. They want to use outdoor living spaces for entertainment, as well as a place to relax and rejuvenate from a busy lifestyle. And they want all these things at an affordable price.

How can builders achieve a quality product like this in an affordable price range?

The Classic Yacht Villas: DTA designed a plan portfolio recently that is geared specifically to this type of market. This portfolio, called the Classic Yacht Series, was created based on an analysis of Yachts and how they incorporate unmatched luxury and quality into very small spaces.

Case Study Examples: Dominick discussed three DTA case study examples and showed a variety of building materials on these projects, which we commonly specify on many of our homes. These products are high quality, affordable alternatives to the much more expensive products that are available. Not only are these products affordable, but many are also healthy and sustainable. These products ranged from exterior stone, to interior plaster in lieu of paint, to indoor energy monitoring systems, to proper insulation materials, to affordable, pre-fabricated kitchens.

Outdoor Living Has Become a Standard: Does your product feature outdoor living? Today's buyers now expect it when purchasing a new home. Dominick showed examples of outdoor spaces we have created, in a variety of climates, and at a range of price points. In a special feature of his presentation this year, Dominick did a step-by-step example of how to create the ultimate outdoor living space, with affordable product options and pricing information.

For information about any of the topics in Dominick's presentation, or to receive a copy of the powerpoint to review, please give us a call at (248) 335-8888 or e-mail JamieQ@DTArchitects.com

Dominick Tringali Architects is a residential, custom and community architectural firm specializing in the methodology lifestyle by design. To learn more, please visit www.dtarchitects.com or http://dtarchitects.blogspot.com.