Kolter Homes, a leader in developing next-generation, highly amenitized master-planned communities for active adults across the Southeastern United States, continually evolves its home designs to reflect the latest trends in active adult living. This commitment to innovation is showcased at the award-winning design studio at Cresswind at Spring Haven in Newnan, Georgia, where homebuyers can explore the latest style and customization options. Recognizing this excellence, Kolter Homes received a Gold OBIE Award for Best Design Center at the 44th Annual OBIE Awards celebration.

Blending style with practicality for today’s active adult homeowner, Mandy Cornelison, the design consultant at Cresswind at Spring Haven, offers her expertise on the key factors influencing the preferences of active adults in their search for a vibrant, maintenance-free lifestyle. 

“Our active adult homeowners are embracing warmer, earthier tones and more functional, low-maintenance designs that allow them to enjoy their time outside the home,” said Cornelison. “Whether it’s creating versatile spaces, incorporating aging-in-place features or maximizing storage efficiency, they’re looking for homes that are not only beautiful but also practical for long-term comfort and ease.”

Below are the top active adult home design trends Kolter Homes is seeing with active adult homebuyers: 

Clean, streamlined, low-maintenance design. Today’s active adults prioritize spending more time enjoying life outside their homes, which is why they prefer simple, efficient and low-maintenance solutions. For example, quartz countertops and laminate flooring are popular choices, given their durability and ease of care compared to traditional granite and hardwoods. Homeowners appreciate options that allow them to spend less time dusting and cleaning and more time focused on traveling, attending community events and enjoying their active lifestyles. 

Texture and pattern. In home design, buyers are moving away from intricate wall and ceiling details, with trends like shiplap becoming less popular. Home shoppers now focus less on fleeting trends and more on creating spaces that will serve them well for the next 15 to 20 years. They want homes that will remain timeless, yet functional, requiring minimal redecorating as they age in place. 

Color trends. There is also a noticeable shift toward warmer, earthier tones. While gray, black and white remain popular, homeowners are becoming bolder and more adventurous with their color selections. Blues, greens and golds are becoming increasingly favored, along with cooler tones that help create a calm and inviting atmosphere by reflecting the natural world outside. 

Effortless entertaining. For socially inclined active adults, being able to entertain in their homes effortlessly is a top priority, as they value spending time with family and friends. They aim to create an inviting and cozy environment where guests feel at home. Open floor plans remain essential to this goal, with the kitchen as the focal point. A spacious, well-lit kitchen with ample storage and counterspace is crucial for seamless entertaining. 

Smart appliances. In the spirit of convenience, smart appliances are becoming increasingly popular among active adults for their ability to streamline everyday tasks and enhance their home’s overall functionality. Advanced features, such as wifi capabilities to preheat the oven or cameras for monitoring progress and automatically adjusting the timer if items are cooking or baking too quickly, make meal prep easier and more efficient. Such technology also allows homeowners to effortlessly entertain by taking the guesswork out of cooking, ensuring meals, appetizers or desserts are perfectly prepared while they focus on hosting. 

Minimums + maximums. There is a growing trend toward both ultra-minimalist and maximalist approaches in active adult home design. Many homeowners opt for a minimalist style, eliminating visual clutter and keeping countertops clear for a clean aesthetic. Alternatively, there is a rising preference for maximalism in the form of bold florals, vibrant prints and intricate details like chunky cabinet hardware, raised paneling and otherwise busy countertops. The two extremes represent the diverse tastes and personal preferences of active adults, and home designs that can accommodate either are well-liked. 

Flex storage. Many active adult homebuyers seek smaller, more efficient spaces that maximize storage and functionality. Instead of additional bonus rooms or multiple bedrooms, they prefer smart storage solutions, such as closet organizers in kitchens, bathrooms and other key areas. By prioritizing the utilization of existing spaces like garages and walk-in attics, homeowners can enjoy a more organized, clutter-free environment without the need for extended square footage. 

Aging in place. In considering home features that accommodate their current lifestyles, active adult homebuyers are also thinking about their future needs. Features like grab bars, removable or handheld showerheads and zero-entry showers that can accommodate wheelchairs are available design options to ensure accessibility and ease of use. Additionally, many home plans are designed with no stairs and modified elements, such as ADA-compliant garage doors and toilets, allowing homeowners to remain comfortable and independent for years to come. 

Versatile spaces. Another notable trend is the growing demand for versatile “catch-all” spaces. Whether it’s a cozy den, craft room, man cave, home gym or office, many active adults seek flexible areas that can easily adapt to their evolving needs and lifestyles. 

Outdoor living. Similar to how home design options for active adults differ from those for younger growing families, geographical considerations are also a part of the active adult home design process. For example, many Florida homes feature optional accordion doors to seamlessly connect inside and outside spaces. Alternatively, Georgia’s mild climate encourages nearly year-round enjoyment, with homeowners incorporating screened-in porches and sunrooms to comfortably enjoy a perfect balance of fresh air within a sheltered space. 

Kolter Homes is leading the way in these evolving home design trends, creating homes that perfectly align with the preferences and lifestyles of today’s active adults. 

To learn more about the latest design features and living options at Cresswind at Spring Haven, visit CresswindSpringHaven.com.