Trends in North Shore Chicago Architecture: Downsizing

As we noted in the recent Chicago Tribune article in which we were featured, one of the biggest trends in home design we’re noticing at Morgante-Wilson Architects is the large number of our clients who are downsizing. Many of these clients are moving from big homes in the suburbs – Lake Forest, Highland Park, Glencoe, Wilmette, Winnetka, and others – to smaller houses and condominiums in the city of Chicago.

The interesting thing to us, as residential architects, is that these clients are not looking back sadly as they leave the homes in which they raised their children. Rather, they are anticipating exciting new chapters ahead, in new homes that reflect the way they’re living today. Yes, they’re downsizing. But they’re also “upsizing” their quality of life in terms of creating spaces that are ideally suited to their new roles as empty-nesters.

Here are five residential architectural trends being set by today’s active, energized, engaged downsizers:

1. Single-level living.

Our residential architecture clients demand the ease of one-level living. Those who still prefer multi-level living want a master suite on the first floor – and an elevator, to facilitate access to the rest of their house as they age. Of course, those elevators are discreetly hidden within gorgeous expanses of woodwork, or closets.

2. Fresh design starts.

The traditional style once favored by many of our clients is giving way to a lighter, more contemporary mood that mirrors their newly lightened responsibilities toward family and home. Along with their new lifestyle, they’re purchasing new furniture – and happily sharing once-prized pieces with grown children, who are now outfitting homes of their own.

3. Clutter-free living.

Similarly, we see a trend toward a leaner accessory style. Less stuff means less to take care of, less to dust, and ultimately, more time. Favorite artwork makes the move, along with sentimental items – some from our clients’ own childhood homes, others from special times in their marriage – but overall, they’re gravitating toward a more minimal aesthetic.

4. Forgoing formal space.

This is a common trend among many of our residential architecture clients. The difference among downsizers is that while they appreciate great-room style living, with a single hang-out zone for cooking, eating, and relaxing, they also request two smaller rooms with doors on them – an office for him, and an office for her. Private spaces to putter are important to these husbands and wives.

5. Thinking ahead.

Studies show most of us, given the choice, would prefer to age in place. Looking ahead toward changes in mobility that often occur as we age is a common theme among our clients. After all, it’s a lot easier to plan ahead than to retrofit later.

If you’re thinking of downsizing, give us a call. We’d love to help you realize your housing dreams as you enter this next, exciting chapter of your own life!