Searching for a new apartment in Houston or Dallas is never easy. With prices constantly on the rise it can be difficult to find a sizeable apartment.
The need for more space has resulted in three major design trends, each used to create the best possible living environment in a small apartment.
Open Concept Apartments
Open concept apartments are typical of the “New York studio” style; however, they’re hardly a new trend. Watch virtually any home cookery show or apartment based sitcom and they’re most likely based in an open concept living space.
Many developers in Houston and Dallas opt to build open concept apartments, not just for the style, but for the cost. Apartments without closed off walls require significantly less materials, making them much cheaper to build.
Due to the size of many new developments, open concept living is more of a design requirement than a choice. The micro living trend is focused around making use of available space, and in most cases open concept living is the only suitable way to live comfortably.
Interior and Exterior Glass
The use of glass on residential buildings has steadily increased over the years. Aside from the sleek, modern image, many developers prefer glass as a building material because of its ecological benefits. Glass is environmentally friendly, recyclable and long lasting.
One of the most appealing aspects of residential glass buildings is that they let more natural light filter into apartments and create the illusion of open space. Modern glass can also be highly energy efficient. Coatings are often applied that exclude the suns hottest rays, but allow a suitable amount of warmth to pass through.
From an interior perspective, glass walls can divide open concept apartments, allowing residents to create makeshift rooms without losing that precious illusion of space.
High Ceilings and Tall Windows
The human craving for space doesn’t just revolve around square footage, but also height. Small apartments are currently in vogue and many developers are choosing to build them for two reasons; they provide a better return on investment; and they are highly in demand.
Micro apartments usually measure around 300 square feet or below. Along with multipurpose décor, high ceilings and tall windows are the only ways to add that much needed sense of spaciousness.
Contrary to popular belief, micro living has many benefits. Developers often build these smaller apartments near popular areas of the city, giving renters the chance to live in places that have active social scenes at a fraction of the price. Some developments also have communal areas, such as rooftop bars or shared living rooms that allow residents to socialize with each other.
Micro apartments are a firm favourite among recent graduates and upcoming professionals who need inner city connections. Having them not only helps out those who don’t have the income to purchase property, but also retains a broader economy by keeping graduates in the city.
If you’re looking for more information on open concept living in the Dallas or Houston area, please feel free to get in touch with us at Apartment Agents.
Image: Fame Fushion