The main image is courtesy of TRI Pointe Homes which showcases a warm flex-space gathering room in their Adler Plan 3 model at Saddle Crest, located in Silverado, California. 

Last week the 2024 Pacific Coast Builders Conference (PCBC) was held at the Anaheim Convention Center. A key event of the popular annual industry tradeshow is an all-day tour of new housing communities in Orange County, California.

Organized and hosted by Adam McAbee, a Senior Vice President at Zonda, a leading housing market research firm, the tour provides innovative examples of home designs, key features, and amenities in master-planned residential communities for members of the industry.

The outing encapsulates a variety of housing products from entry-level townhomes to luxury single family homes that target a wide-array of prospective buyers, demonstrating why Southern California continues to be viewed as a hub of innovation for planned residential communities throughout the nation.

In Purgula’s case, we take special note of what is being offered to new homebuyers and how they relate to the trends that we track on a continuous basis.

Though the tour is always informative and enjoyable, we always leave wishing we could have spent more time and seen more. Whether you are considering purchasing a home in a new housing community or not, these design examples can serve as helpful guidance for new home improvement projects, especially those being considered to enhance a future sale.

Table of Contents

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Key Challenges of New Housing Communities in Southern California

Unquestionably, the two most important driving factors in new housing communities in Southern California are:

  • Attainability
  • Affordability

Attainability Explained

Potential buyers earn a good salary but do not make enough to buy a new or existing home. These buyers, or “missing middle”, are overqualified for subsidized, low-income “affordable housing” programs. They simply need housing priced within their income level.

Affordability Explained

To qualify with most mortgage lenders, potential buyers must have an income that meets the requirement of 30% or less of their gross income to meet monthly mortgage costs. This can be the gross income of an individual buyer or a family with multiple income streams.

Rienda community map at Rancho Mission Viejo

Village of Rienda community map at Rancho Mission Viejo
Image courtesy of Rancho Mission Viejo

Attainability and affordability are persistent obstacles in many highly competitive real estate markets. To address these issues, the collective response from developers and builders has been to incorporate many of the following tactics:

  • Increase housing density (i.e. build more units per acre)
  • Reduce square footage and/or eliminate features, such as formal dining rooms
  • Substitute eliminated in-home amenities with shared community amenities (e.g. outdoor spaces; outdoor kitchens; fitness centers; pools; etc.)
  • Increase the usability and functionality of available living spaces (e.g. incorporate flex spaces)
  • Create the illusion that smaller spaces are larger (e.g. provide ample natural light)
  • Make attached homes feel detached (e.g. private side entrances)

These constraints are important to keep in mind while exploring these properties, as builders must stringently prioritize key features when not having the luxury of extra space and needing to be highly selective with premium upgrades.

Street view of a section of Portola Springs

Street view of a section of Portola Springs

For further discussion and understanding on Attainability vs. Affordability, be sure to see the following article:

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Design Trends from the PCBC 2024 OC Housing Tour

Though much research and analysis is incorporated into a multitude of business decisions for any master-planned community, our approach to this article was to put aside data for the moment and simply share the design elements that caught our attention:

 

Luxury Kitchens

Based on the models we toured, we conclude that well-designed luxury kitchens continue to reign supreme in terms of prioritized home features.

Arbor Model kitchen at Portola Springs by Shea Homes

Arbor model kitchen at Portola Springs by Shea Homes

Katie Yost, a senior designer with Bassenian Lagoni Architects, confirmed our perceptions when she remarked during the Finding Success with Today’s Buyers session that:

“Kitchens provide the wow factor” – Katie Yost, Bassenian Lagoni Architects

Unsurprisingly, the most prevalent kitchen traits found in the models included:

  • Large kitchen islands with seating
  • Statement pendant light fixtures over the island
  • Open layout to a family room, dining table and patio
  • Premium kitchen appliances and brands
  • White, neutral and natural color palettes
Arbor model at Portola Springs open space around kitchen by Shea Homes

Arbor model at Portola Springs open social space around kitchen by Shea Homes

Homeowners planning to upgrade for a resale need to prioritize, starting with the kitchen, to ensure “the hub of the home” has current competitive must-have features and layouts that many homeowners require. Given the high-cost and high-risk of taking on a kitchen remodel, reputable pre-sale renovations firms can serve as invaluable partners for sellers who have uncompetitive, outdated kitchens.

Sierra Plan 3 model kitchen with unusual light fixture by California Pacific Homes

Sierra Plan 3 model kitchen with dark cabinetry and unique light fixture at Portola Springs by California Pacific Homes

We were especially pleased to see a proliferation of high-end kitchen appliance brands, such as Sub-Zero, Wolf, Thermador and Bosch, included as either standard offerings or premium upgrades.

In a conversation with Purgula, Jenni Nichols, Vice President of Design at John Burns Research and Consulting, reiterated the importance of getting kitchen design right — “that the kitchen feels right” — especially when spacing is severely restricted. When limited kitchen space is an issue, Nichols shared that peninsulas and detached furniture islands can both work well to improve usability and functionality.

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Statement Porches, Entrances & Stairways

Arbor Residence 3 with private side entrance at Portola Springs by Shea Homes

Arbor Residence 3 showcases a timeless facade with private side entrance at Portola Springs by Shea Homes
Image courtesy of Shea Homes

A consistent experience in virtually all of the home models we visited — no matter the price point, lot size, or square footage — was that each unit made a strong, positive first impression starting at the front entryway.

Entrance of Willow model plan 3y at Rienda Rancho Mission Viejo by Trumark Homes

Entrance of Willow model plan 3y at Rienda Rancho Mission Viejo by Trumark Homes

A common feature noted was outdoor furniture within a covered porch, alongside a large, visually striking front door.

large covered front porch with western rocking chairs at the Adler Plan 3 model at Saddle Crest by TRI Pointe Homes

Stylish western rocking chairs greeting visitors to the Adler Plan 3 model at Saddle Crest by TRI Pointe Homes

Foyers were also designed to be noticed by visitors, with techniques such as:

  • Benches
  • Nearby powder rooms
  • Large planters
  • Expansive hallways to the rest of the home in larger properties
  • Wall cladding in entrance hallways and stairwells
Adler model plan 3 at Saddle Crest entry stairway by TRI Pointe Homes

Modern entrance stairway in the Adler Plan 3 Model at Saddle Crest by TRI Pointe Homes
Image courtesy of TRI Pointe Homes

In multi-storied homes, the entrances also showcased dramatic stairways that accentuated the open space.

The Willow open stairway area at Saddle Crest by Rutter Development

Wrapping stairway at the Willow at Saddle Crest by Rutter Development
Image courtesy of Rutter Development

Given the high price of lot size and interior square footage, we have to assume that designers prioritized the entrance areas of homes to address an important emotional need for residents to feel enveloped in luxury when entering their home.

The Sage at Saddle Crest by Rutter Development. Top view of dramatic stairway and entrance

View looking down at the stylish stairway and entrance of the Sage at Saddle Crest by Rutter Development

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Ceiling Fixtures & Wall Treatments

Distinctive ceiling light fixtures were used throughout the models we visited that sent a message that each home was uniquely decorated and not simply a slightly altered version of neighboring homes.

Fiore Residence 1 Model dining room with sloped ceiling at Portola Springs by California Pacific Homes

A sloped-ceiling dining room with distinctive light fixture in the Fiore Residence 1 model at Portola Springs by California Pacific Homes

For example, most kitchens were designed with three eye-catching pendant lights over a prominent kitchen island. The photo below showcases three stylish pendants over a large, second island.

Adler at Saddle Crest Plan 3 model, statement pendant lights over second kitchen island, by TRI Pointe Homes

3 statement pendant lights displayed over a second kitchen island in the Adler Plan 3 model at Saddle Crest by TRI Pointe Homes

Rooms that lacked ceiling light fixtures, especially bedrooms, were often given large stylish ceiling fans. As strong proponents of ceiling fans due to their quiet, energy-saving, ample summertime comfort that they deliver, we pleasantly took note that interior designers are combing practical functionality with emerging styles of interesting fan designs.

Adler at Saddle Crest Plan 3 Model Home Windmill Ceiling Fan in Baby's room by TRI Pointe Homes

A windmill ceiling fan in the baby’s room at the Adler at Saddle Crest model by TRI Pointe Homes.
Image courtesy of TRI Pointe Homes

Wall treatments, such as wall cladding, were also extensively used throughout the models to project a feeling of being in a “custom-built” home. When added with contrasting paint colors or wood patterns, walls gave warmth and interest to a particular room.

The Oak Residence model at Saddle Crest, formal dining room with wall cladding by Rutter Development

A warm formal dining room at the Oak Residence at Saddle Crest by Rutter Development

 

Small, Flexible Workspaces

Another common theme we noticed was the addition of smaller desks in bedrooms, hallways, and even kitchens — a throwback to the pre-mobile-phone days where every household kitchen hosted a tethered wire telephone and message tablet.

Flex room with small desk in Olivewood model at Portola Springs by New Home Co.

Flex room with retro small desk in Olivewood model at Portola Springs by New Home Co.

Though we have written extensively on the growing trend of working from home and the need for productive home offices, model designers were adept at embedding small, yet highly functional desks throughout each home.

Flex space office area at Willow Plan 2 model at Rancho Mission Viejo by Trumark Homes

Two views of an end-of-hallway flex office space at the Willow Plan 2 model at Mission Rancho Viejo by Trumark Homes

Also noticeable were desk tables that could support two persons at the same time – either facing each other, or via long wall-attached tables with separated work areas.

Lapis Plan 3 model with flex room and double-ended wall desk at Portola Springs by California Pacific Homes

A flex room with a double-ended wall desk in Lapis Plan 3 model at Portola Springs by California Pacific Homes

There were, however, certainly large workspaces included within homes with significantly more square footage – a key draw for prospective homebuyers who work from home extensively.

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Intimate Outdoor Spaces

Those unfamiliar with new housing communities in Southern California would likely be shocked at the minimal outdoor spaces available for many units. That said, we can attest to the great attention to detail that is given to outdoor spaces in order to maximize homeowner value and overall enjoyment.

Intimate patio setting in Olivewood Model at Portola Springs by New Home Co.

A cozy patio setting with impressive views at an Olivewood model at Portola Springs by New Home Co.

As the listing prices increase, you will notice more available outdoor space that definitely shines through as a competitive advantage when comparing models.

Olivewood Residence 1 outdoor dining space with privacy hedges t Portola Springs by New Home Co.

Privacy hedges surround the outdoor dining space at an Olivewood model at Portola Springs by New Home Co.

A key approach developers are taking is to provide complimentary amenities through state-of-the-art community centers including features, such as:

  • Clubhouses
  • Swimming Pools
  • Tot Lots
  • Water Parks
  • Outdoor Entertainment Spaces
  • Barbecue and Picnic Areas
  • Fitness Centers
  • Sport Courts & Multi-Use Fields
  • Shaded Seating Areas & Spaces
  • Trails
  • Dog Parks
  • Great Lawns
  • Putting Greens

In recent years, new planned communities are catering to a growing percentage of homeowners who desire a connection to nature within safe outdoor areas, such as pathways for walking, hiking and biking; natural water features; and pet-friendly spaces. Community activities, whether outdoor or indoor, combined with social networking community apps, are further helping residents connect with neighbors through common interests and hobbies.

For those seeking a traditionally sized lot (e.g. 1/3 to 1/5 acre) in a new Southern California master-planned community, you should not be surprised to encounter prices starting around the $3M mark.

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Bonus Design Observations

Though we grouped design trends into five aspects of the home, we would be remiss if we did not share the following, more subtle, design trends noticed in various spaces and applications:

 

Black as an Accent Color

Adler Plan 3 Model master bathroom at Saddle Crest by TRI Pointe Homes

Statement black tile in the primary bathroom of the Adler Plan 3 model at Saddle Crest by TRI Pointe Homes
Image courtesy of TRI Pointe Homes

Based on our sample set of models, the color black was definitely a popular choice for designers to help their units stand out against the competition.

Gathering room of Bloom model at Rienda Rancho Mission Viejo by Pulte Homes

Gathering room of Bloom model at Rienda Rancho Mission Viejo by Pulte Homes

Black as an accent color was used in the following ways:

  • Black highlight trim and hardware in kitchens and bathrooms
  • Black tiles in bathrooms
  • Black and white monochromatic illustrations in wall art
Willow model plan 3y bathroom at Rienda Rancho Mission Viejo by Trumark Homes

Bathroom in the Willow Plan 3y Model at Rienda Rancho Mission Viejo by Trumark Homes

 

Retro, Off-Grid, Throwback Décor

Having recently visited the 2024 Pasadena Showcase House of Design and taking note of two exceptionally original spaces — the Dining Room and the Library Lounge & Curiosity Room, which were both purposefully designed to be “digitally off-grid”— we’ve started to notice other interior designs that are striving to facilitate meaningful face-to-face, in-person interaction, as well as to foster spaces conducive to creative thought.

Flex room in Adler Plan 3 model at Saddle Crest with retro decor by TRI Pointe Homes

Flex room with retro decor in Adler Plan 3 model at Saddle Crest by TRI Pointe Homes

Though all of the models toured had digital screens, typically in prominent multi-use rooms, retro décor objects, such as portable record players, special board games, and mid-century-inspired furniture were leveraged throughout the units.

The laundry guide “artwork” shown below has a comforting retro feel about it for three reasons:

  1. Its understated black-and-white presentation has a calming “throw-back” feel to it
  2. It is a highly informative laundering cheat sheet placed in the perfect location (i.e. it packs a lot of information in a small space)
  3. Most importantly, the artwork does not require access to the Internet to deliver these helpful tips!
Adler Plan 3 Laundry Guide Artwork at Saddle Crest by TRI Pointe Homes

Laundry Guide “artwork” in the laundry room of Alder Plan 3 at Saddle Crest by TRI Pointe Homes

This “throwback” trend also relates to what we called “Warmth on a Human Scale“, observed at the 2024 New American Home. Ultra-modern and luxurious homes — especially those with a significant surplus of square footage — have the challenge of providing warm, comfortable spaces for their residents.

Effective measures to create a warm and intimate ambience within a spacious home include: incorporating sound-absorbing materials, such as natural wood, area rugs and textiles; and facilitating “enclosable” flex-spaces, with pivot door partition walls and draperies.

 

Large Laundry Rooms

Given the pervasive challenge of providing sufficient space with quality amenities, we were surprised to encounter several large and well-appointed laundry rooms.

Large laundry room in Olivewood model at Portola Springs by New Home Co.

Large laundry room in Olivewood model at Portola Springs by New Home Co.

Though few of the rooms could be classified as “luxury”, several examples felt as if they were approaching the look-and-feel of stylish kitchens.

Adler Plan 3 model with large laundry room at Saddle Crest by TRI Pointe Homes

A large laundry room with the feel of a retro kitchen in the Adler Plan 3 model at Saddle Crest by TRI Pointe Homes

Exceptionally large laundry room at the Adler Plan 2 model at Saddle Crest by TRI Pointe Homes

A highly impressive laundry room at the Adler Plan 2 model at Saddle Crest by TRI Pointe Homes
Image courtesy of TRI Pointe Homes

 

Acoustic Privacy as a Competitive Amenity

Though “Acoustic Privacy” is not currently a trend, unfortunately, this neglected home necessity represents a tremendous opportunity for both new home builders and remodelers of existing homes.

Based on our personal experiences of having lived in poorly insulated condominiums and rental apartments, we cannot think of a more important amenity as acoustic privacy to offer, not only in any attached home, but also within detached single family homes. Even family members need auditory solitude from their loved ones!

When builders are faced with adding value within smaller square footage, we strongly recommend offering innovative sound insulation solutions that will truly make any home feel like a luxurious enclave.

 

Details of the PCBC 2024 OC Housing Tour

Housing Communities Visited

 

Rienda at Rancho Mission Viejo

Ranch Camp Fitness center at Rienda Village at Rancho Mission Viejo

Ranch Camp Fitness center at Rienda Village at Rancho Mission Viejo

Models (Builder Sites):

Data Source: Zonda

2023 Demographics of the Surrounding Area (2 mile radius)

  • Average Household Size: 2,800 square feet
  • Average Household Income: $186,000
  • Average Net Worth: $1,063,000
  • Median Age: 51.3 years

Data Source: Zonda

 

Portola Springs at Villages of Irvine

Street view of Lapis models at Portola Springs by California Pacific Homes

Street view of Lapis models at Portola Springs by California Pacific Homes

Models (Builder Sites):

Data Source: Zonda

2023 Demographics of the Surrounding Area (1 mile radius)

  • Average Household Size: 3,100 square feet
  • Average Household Income: $158,000
  • Average Net Worth: $438,000
  • Median Age: 35.5 years

Data Source: Zonda

 

Saddle Crest in Silverado

Drone view of Viewpoint models at Saddle Crest by Rutter Development

Aerial view of Viewpoint models at Saddle Crest

Models (Builder Sites):

2023 Demographics of the Surrounding Area (1 mile radius)

  • Average Household Size: 2,900 square feet
  • Average Household Income: $149,000
  • Average Net Worth: $587,000
  • Median Age: 40.1 years

Data Source: Zonda

 

Interactive Floorplans, Videos & Virtual Tours

Bloom at Rienda: New Home Community in Rancho Mission Viejo

Experience Bloom at Rienda: New Home Community in Rancho Mission Viejo

Willow at Rienda in Rancho Mission Viejo by Trumark Homes | Community Overview

Willow at Rienda in Rancho Mission Viejo by Trumark Homes | Community Overview

Additional Interactive Floorplans and Virtual Tours

 

Additional Recommended Reading

 

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