What Women Want
by Heidi Vail
Women have tremendous influence in the home purchase process. In fact, women have sole or joint ownership of over 90 percent of all homes, and they control over 80 percent of all purchases of both consumer and business goods and services.
Given these facts, it makes sense for homebuilders to give thoughtful consideration to what women want. Indeed, for builders who find effective ways to address women's yearning for substance with style, built in more natural and energy efficient ways, the sky's the limit!
Consider seven elements vitally important to women:
- Centralized family space, especially in kitchen areas
- A place to feel pampered, such as spa-like master baths
- Cheerful and spacious laundry rooms
- Open, airy spaces with natural light
- Homes that are easy to maintain and to clean
- Products that save time
- Outdoor living space
Today's kitchens are often the focal point of a home, and women are looking for new kitchen products that are highly functional, fashionable and efficient. These conveniences are akin to being pampered, while energy efficiency allows buyers to feel thrifty and environmentally responsible.
Master baths have transitioned from practical, functional spaces to personal retreats where women seek solitude and relaxation. Here, everything becomes personal. Spa-like master bathrooms exude a powerful allure, so carefully consider adding these features:
- Walk in showers with multiple showerheads and sprays
- Furniture-quality vanities with shallow vessel sinks
- Dual his-and-her vanities
- Free-standing tubs
- Comfort-height toilets and higher countertops
- Matte white finishes-the latest trend for toilets, tubs and sinks
- Monochromatic/neutral colors to produce a Zen-like atmosphere
Often overlooked, laundry rooms should be attractive as well as functional. Add windows to laundry rooms to make them feel open, spacious and cheerful. Also include enough storage space to keep detergent and other supplies in reach but out of sight, along with generous counter space on which to fold clothes or accommodate a hobby project. Include a deep utility sink and colorful new appliances that are stylish, quiet and energy efficient.
Because most women have growing concerns about the environment, they are looking for, if not demanding, energy efficiency throughout their homes. In addition to effective insulation and passive solar designs, women want homes that are kind to the planet.
Lastly, outdoor living spaces are a vital part of what makes a house a home. Carefully consider such things as conveniently situated electrical outlets, multiple water bibs, covered patios that function as outdoor living rooms, easy-to-clean surfaces and a backyard kitchen space with built-in BBQ, refrigeration and lighting.
Heidi Vail is an Owner/Operator of Thru the Buyer's Eyes, a licensed general contractor that specializes in design and remodeling, bringing a feminine sensibility to all aspects of its remodeling and construction projects.
