One of the key features of a successful model home is that it will appeal to all buyer profiles. Each model should reflect broad tastes—but incorporate the Third Layer Principle—that will allow every buyer to see him or herself in the home. Depending on your market, you may want to consider incorporating “she” or “he” specific spaces in the home to reach an even broader audience. Maybe it’s a library, a sports-centric flex space, or even a specially designed spot for home brewing and shared experiences. The options are (almost) endless.
Designers at Lita Dirks & Co. have been designing spaces that appeal to a variety of buyers for decades, but today, they’re sharing some of their “he space” ideas.
Kitchens: Inside and Out
Having a kitchen design that appeals to whatever type of cook he is important. The design rules are mostly the same, whether he’s a microwave magician, a grill aficionado, or on his way to earning a Michelin Star. Include plenty of area to do the prep-work, enough storage, and perhaps even a place to display high-end cookware.
Don’t forget about the outdoor kitchens! Grills have been a dominant feature of outdoor spaces, and there are a variety of sizes, finishes and features to choose from when merchandising a model home. First, identify your buyer type. Is he a tech guy, drawn to your homes for their modern or contemporary feel? Pick outdoor finishes that have clean lines, and source a grilling station with all the latest high-tech features (can you control the grill from your smart phone?). Maybe he is looking to move into a larger house that accommodates his growing extended family. In that case, make sure your grill is sized to match, and consider adding in outdoor seating where his seven siblings and their kids can hang out while the chef prepares dinner. Whatever your buyer type, there’s a grill to match, and having a well-designed outdoor kitchen will entice and intrigue buyers.
PRO TIP: Don’t skimp on the sink! A large, deep sink will make clean-up a breeze, whether the sink is full of grilling equipment, home brewing bottles, or his latest baking adventure cookie sheets.
Dens, Niches, and Other Hobby Spaces
When a prospective buyer walks through the model, he or she should feel like there are uniquely designed spaces just for them. Whether it’s a space where he can envision himself having his buddies over to watch the big game or a custom hobby alcove, spaces like these can cater to your buyers’ interests and make all the difference in capturing a buyer’s attention and desire to live in this home.
Regal Homes, Utah. Photo courtesy of Lita Dirks & Co. 
Taylor Morrison, NEXTadventure Home. Photo courtesy of Lita Dirks & Co.
Colors and Materials
Think there’s one secret color palette to appeal to entire gender? Think again! What we do know is that color plays a big role in design and home sales and can help buyers envision how they’d decorate and live in the home. In many instances, the color of a room impacts mood and the overall feel of a space. Regardless of gender, neutrals and earth tones are good choices, and if you choose to add pops of color, a good rule of thumb is everything in moderation.
By incorporating natural materials and multiple textures, designers at Lita Dirks & Co. have learned how their designs can appeal to multiple buyers. Using products such as stone or wood and complimenting them with textures like suede, leather, and natural fabrics can make spaces feel like a cozy retreat, and who doesn’t want that? Add in simple and comfortable styling, and your buyer will be ready to move in.
PRO TIP: For a child’s bedroom, boy or girl, look to your local culture for inspiration. Is there a famous soccer player to idolize, or a musician who grew up in town? How about the local high school’s color palette?
Creating a model home that leaves a lasting impression and elicits the “need to buy” feeling is the key to standing out among the competition. However, how that looks and feels is different for everyone. Ensuring that your designs appeal to as many potential buyers as possible is the goal. Incorporating those special places and details for all potential buyers is what can make all the difference.
Post courtesy of Sue Ridgeway, Director of Marketing at Lita Dirks & Co., an interior design and merchandising firm based in Greenwood Village, Colo.
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