Each winter the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) puts on one of the largest home and building shows in the United States. Returning to Las Vegas for 2023, this year’s show was one of the largest on record with over 4 million square feet filled with 3300+ exhibits from some of the industry’s leading companies. Between the International Builders Show and the Design + Construction Week (DCW) there were over 100,000 attendees looking for the latest in building technology and interior trends.
Representatives from The House Plan Company attended to bring back what are sure to be top trends for 2023.
Green is Back
Advances in energy conservation and environmentally conscience construction practices encompassed almost every part of the build process. From site development to building materials to lighting and more, the company named the most innovative start up at the show was Plantd (Plantd | Carbon Negative Building Materials (plantdmaterials.com) which focuses on producing carbon negative building materials.
Advances in Technology
Software and data companies made their presence known and have made large advancements to assist builders better manage projects, workflows, and material ordering. In addition to software to make business easier, data was a key theme of the show. Houzz Pro and other firms are making it easier for builders and homeowners to get access to information about what is trending in their area from size of home to interior features.
Product Highlights
Big bold doors and windows could be found throughout the show. 9+ foot tall entry doors designed to open on a pivot point along with large picture windows that moved by remote control or folded could be found at nearly every manufacturer’s exhibit, giving the industries long time luxury door company, Nana Wall, a run for their money. These stunning features do require a home of comparable size to not overwhelm the balance. When asked, most manufacturers are able to provide smaller versions for those looking to build a small house plan or 2 bedroom floor plan.
Kitchen & Bath Trends
The industry is split between two very different looks, vintage or modern. The common thread with both was a heightened sense of luxury with some exhibitors recreating jewelry stores or Paris bistros to showcase the latest appliance or appliance hardware. For sample kitchens showcasing the current retro look – bold colors and rounded corners were accentuated by cool whites. Where the modern kitchens relied on lighter woods to lift the space and provide an accent to the black and rose gold features. Craftsman and cottage inspired kitchen designs did make a reappearance and even took best in show.
When it came to bathrooms it was all about lighting. Illuminated mirrors that accent unique facets and vanities were a common trend. Modern soaking tubs that can fit seamlessly into any style and touches of modern elegance carried into the bathroom trends showcased this year.
Pocket Offices
The trend of remote working wasn’t lost with exhibitors this year. Alongside the stunning kitchen displays were model pocket offices with warm cabinetry and efficient desk space to make the most out of a small dedicated workspace.
Where is 2023 heading?
While there is some uncertainty across the industry as to what 2023 has in store for the housing market – construction costs, land supply, and interest rates all trying to slow the market down one thing was clear. That the new home market is still moving forward, full steam ahead, with nobody experiencing any reprieve from 2022. All signs point to a very full and busy 2023 for the home building industry. And that high level of enthusiasm for the coming year was certainly felt across the 100,000 attendees at this year’s International Builders Show.
