Looking for a home that makes the best possible use of space—from kitchen to master suite—to improve your quality of life? That’s what appears to be emerging as we consult architects, designers, and builders for predictions of home design trends for 2017. We report on the details.

You know you need light, but do you know how to get the right type and proper amount in your kitchen? There is probably no other room in the house that serves as many different needs as today’s kitchen, and it needs proper lighting to make it welcoming and efficient.

Ensure that your newly built dream home has just the right curb appeal with its Craftsman style. The little details like paint colors, landscaping, and the perfect Craftsman door will make all the difference in making your house the “it” home of the block.

The one-story home has slowly emerged as a trendy and attractive choice for a growing number of the American population. With no stairs to navigate in a one-story floor plan, people find several creative design options - including cozy Cape Cods, bungalows, ranches, artsy Craftsman, chic European, Mediterranean, comfortable Southern and country styles.

What exactly do you have in mind for your dream-home master suite? Whether you plan to renovate or build from a house plan, knowing what you really want will help you design the perfect space. Here are some popular features to consider in creating an attractive, comfortable, and peaceful retreat.

We interviewed a number of industry expert architects and contractors to understand more about the current design features that are trending in the home and building industry. Learn more about this subject and other related questions from the experts here!

Flooring takes up a lot of the material in a new house, so it behooves you to make sure your not hurting the environment. We look at most popular eco choices: cork, bamboo, engineered wood, recycled (reclaimed) wood, recycled-glass tile, wool carpeting, linoleum, and polished concrete.

As cooking becomes a passion rather than a necessity, more people in a family are likely to congregate in the kitchen to try out their culinary skills. How can everyone share a space enjoyably – and peacefully? It may be time to redesign the “hub” of the home to accommodate all of those foodies. As well as those who just like to enjoy the results!

Perhaps some of the more interesting – and overlooked – exterior features of a home are the window shutters of various shapes, designs, and colors. Forget about the kitchen and the porch for a minute, and think about how you can give your home a fresh look with these decorative accents.

From the Franklin Stove to the modern electric, gas, or traditional wood-burning type, fireplaces add warmth, comfort, and ambiance to the home. As you search for your dream house plan, think of its décor and your lifestyle. Here are several tips to help you choose the fireplace for your home and family.