Once the sawdust has settled, and you are getting ready to move in to your New Home, or Addition, the big question becomes "how do we decorate this space?" Witnessing the transition of your project from a lines on a page into a three dimensional space is exciting, however, for the homeowner, the work has just begun.  Decoist.com has provided some guidlines for decorating your new living space, with 5 simple steps that can help point you in the right direction.  You should first decide on a color scheme, the use and needs for the space, then furnishings and decorative elements.  Also, there is no need to have to purchase all new furnishings for your New Home, if you have planned properly, much of the furniture you already own, may be able to work in the new space. Often times, when REEF designs a New Space, we will take the time to measure an owner's existing furnishings and make sure they work in the space, long before construction has begun.  Then, to tie it all together, don't forget those little decorative elements such as lamps and other accessories that can make the space yours! 

Here is the article from Decoist.com: How to Decorate a Living Room

   Professional Builder Magazine recently published their "Design Innovation Repoort" which was developed with leaders in residential design from across the country.  There were 15 key points in this report, many of which make a lot of sense, and can provide some inspiration for your next New Home, Remodeling or Renovation Project. 

See the full article here: http://www.housingzone.com/design/15-great-ideas-leaders-residential-design

    REEF, Cape Cod's Home Builder is a design and construction firm, and as such, we are constantly looking at the design trends nationwide for new and fresh ideas.  Whether remodeling, or building new, a smart design that meets  your aesthetic,  lifestyle, and budget needs is always the ultimate goal. Here are some new designs that national production builders are using to spark new home sales.  Although some of these designs may not fit in your ideal Cape Cod neighborhood, many of the concepts and floor plans could be used in your next project.  Take a look !

http://www.housingzone.com/design/5-design-concepts-spark-new-home-sales

     So what does the future hold for house design? Trends are moving towards more contemporary interiors, traditional but highly detailed exteriors, and flexible and fun living spaces that allow families to enjoy time together both inside and outside the home.  Builderonline.com recently published an article covering design trends for new homes in 2012.  As a Custom Home Builder on Cape Cod, we are constantly looking to identify trends that are not only popular, but make sense both aesthetically and financially. This article discusses new concepts like the "Family Triangle" and viewing outdoor living spaces as an extension of the indoor space. If you are thinking of building a new home on Cape Cod,

Click here to read the full article: http://www.builderonline.com/design/eight-design-trends-for-fresh-elevations-updated-interiors_1.aspx

Traditional Exterior:

Contemporary Interior

    Creating an appealing home has a number of factors. Overall design, lot location, and exterior details can all contribute to an attractive home.  The elements of an attractive home should be balanced in mass and scale, and present a coordinated appearance.   We found an interesting article from Housingzone.com that discusses the 3 key elements to creating a stunning custom home.  This article highlights massing, fenestration, and detailing as the most important factors that contribute to an attractive custom home.  Even the smallest house can have exceptional curb appeal with some well placed windows and doors, and some small details like shutters. 

Click here to read the full article: http://www.housingzone.com/blog/3-key-elements-creating-stunning-curb-appeal

    Things have changed for home builders over the last several years.  Trends are moving away from the large trophy type homes, and more towards designs that offer practical livability, efficient design, and style where it counts.   Builder magazine recently produced an article that highlights the fact that modern lifestyles have changed much more quickly than home designs.  One of the biggest demands now is for a design that supports multi-generational living.  As a  custom home builder and home designer, REEF often responds to needs such as these with creative, and innovative solutions for space and functionality. 

Here is the full article from builderonline.com

http://www.builderonline.com/design/the-makings-of-the-next-great-new-home-design.aspx

  In the past, REEF has always promoted new and exciting designs, products and features for new homes, renovation and remodeling.  So today, we thought we might try something different. We came across a very interesting article on MSN Real Estate that talks about 10 home trends that are quickly losing popularity.  Ranging from things like 2-story living rooms, to fancy jetted tubs, this article highlights the trends that builders and realtors are seeing across the country.  Custom homes often become a mix of features that customers have seen and liked elsewhere, but some of those choices don't make practical sense over the long term. 

Click below to see the article, you might be surprised: http://realestate.msn.com/kiss-these-10-once-popular-home-features-goodbye?#2

   Often, due to the historic nature of the Cape Cod area, house designs are sometimes limited to the traditional.   We have often looked to more cutting edge homes to see the latest trends and styles in interior and exterior design.  Below is a home featured on Freshome.com for its unique yet simple styling. Both the exterior and interior of this home display some exceptional features that could inspire your next project... Click here for the full article and more photos: http://freshome.com/2012/03/25/eccentric-details-showcased-by-modern-villa-in-athenes/

   We are always presented with the challenge of designing and building well-appointed, efficiently designed homes that fit the unique constraints of the small lots typically found on the Cape.   We found this article from Housingzone.com that provides some good ideas that will help you design your next "small home that lives large" Check it out!

docs/small homes that live large.pdf