‘Builder Tony’ on new home design trends from International Builders’ Show

Safety and security, neutral tones and matte finishes showcased as latest design focus 

U.S. Bank’s Tony “Builder Tony” Cardoza once again took to the National Association of Homebuilders’ International Builders' Show to meet with builders and partners and scope out the latest innovations in home design.

“There was noticeable focus on new features that improve the safety, security and sustainability of a home,” said Cardoza, who oversees the national builder program at U.S. Bank. “From steel reinforcements to concrete foundations, there are a number of new ideas coming to the market that will help homes withstand severe weather and climate impacts.”

New-build homes continue to provide much-needed housing supply in many parts of the U.S. as inventory remains tight and home prices soar. According to February U.S. Census Bureau data, 28% of homes on the market were new construction and inventory of unsold new build homes reached a 15-year high in March.

Cardoza said there is also a trend of homebuyers investing more in higher-end appliances and features that will last or provide long-term sustainability. One example is sustainable fireplaces – which are flameless, yet produce the visuals and warmth of a traditional fireplace, without using natural resources and creating pollution.

“We also saw a return to neutral color palettes and more muted colors and designs,” Cardoza said. “There is a shift to letting the other things in the home pop while letting living areas blend in to the background.”

Check out the video above to see more on this year’s International Builders' Show. To learn more about U.S. Bank home loans, visit usbank.com/homeloans.