Not all homebuyers in Chattanooga and the surrounding areas are looking for a house with a massive floor plan – and a massive price tag. In fact, a variety of lifestyle changes motivate many home owners to downsize to something more manageable.
The reasons for opting for a smaller home may vary, but their goals remain consistent: find an efficient home that fits well, maximizes space, and offers value. Home builders recognize the changing needs of today’s buyers, which is why an increasing number of them are finding innovative ways to deliver big value in a small(er) package.
To those who think buying a smaller home means sacrificing quality amenities, they might not know about what many refer to as the “jewel box home.” Ranging between 650 to 2,500 square feet, jewel box homes are generally smaller than the average single-family home, and built with high-quality materials and custom finishes tailored to the owner’s preferences.
Such homes are most appealing to newlyweds, single professionals, empty nesters, or retirees – anyone with a less-is-more mentality who wants to live in a quality, custom, yet relatively affordable, home.
Every area within a jewel box home is designed with a purpose – sometimes more than one – to augment efficiency. The designs typically rely on blurring the lines between the indoors and outdoors by incorporating large sliding glass doors that open seamlessly to exterior dining and entertaining areas.
Other design elements that create space include the use of bright, chrome-brushed finishes, pocket and barn doors, dramatic lighting, floating shelves, abundant windows, and continuous flooring throughout. Functionality is often enhanced with kitchen islands that double as dining tables, creative storage spaces beneath stairs, and purposeful cabinetry and built-ins.
For more information about innovative home designs that fit modern lifestyles, contact the Home Builders Association of Greater Chattanooga at (423) 624-9992 or info@hbagc.net.