Millennials flocked to cities and put homeownership on hold during the mid-2000s downturn. Now that they can afford to buy, they are beginning to settle down in suburban and exurban communities, where home prices are lower. However, instead of leaving their urban lifestyles behind, they are bringing what they love about the city with them.
The result is a trend toward New Urbanism in the suburbs. Like cities, suburban communities are becoming more compact, connected, and walkable. With revitalized and bustling mixed-use commercial and entertainment hubs, they also have the dining, nightlife, and culture that 20- and 30-somethings have come to expect.
When it comes to specific features, new suburbanites want homes that are low maintenance and unique, with the accessibility and convenience they crave. This presents an exciting opportunity for architects to rethink how they build communities and how product choice can fit into their design to showcase more distinctive homes and streetscapes.
To adapt, designers are reaching into their toolboxes for innovative exterior products to help them create unique façades within community settings. The Aspyre Collection by James Hardie, for example, offers architects versatility: The collection’s Artisan siding and trim and Reveal panel systems can be used individually or together to achieve a unique look and feel for each home. Additionally, both product lines allow architects the ability to experiment with different installation techniques, vertical or horizontal, as shown in the image below.