Design’s growing role in real estate decisions in 2026 

The Maturing Homebuyer: How design thinking is shaping real estate choices
Attributed to: Ms. Sumitra Joshi, Senior Vice President- Architecture & Design at Vascon Engineers 

Today’s homebuyer is more thoughtful than ever. Buying a home is no longer about size, shine, or status alone. People are looking for spaces that feel right, work well over time, and support everyday living. Design thinking is playing a quiet but powerful role in shaping these choices. Here’s how the maturing homebuyer is changing the real estate conversation.

1. Homes are chosen for how they feel, not just how they look

Buyers are paying attention to natural light, openness, and a sense of calm. Large windows, airy layouts, and visual connection to the outdoors matter because they make daily life feel lighter and more relaxed. A home that feels peaceful often wins over one that only looks impressive on paper.

2. Wellness is becoming a daily need, not a luxury add-on

Dedicated spaces for rest, fitness, and mental well-being are now high on priority lists. Buyers appreciate bathrooms that feel soothing, quiet corners for reflection, and layouts that allow privacy when needed. Clean air, good ventilation, and access to daylight are seen as essentials, not extras.

3. Outdoor spaces are treated like real living areas

Balconies, terraces, gardens, and patios are no longer afterthoughts. Buyers want outdoor areas that can be used every day whether for meals, relaxation, or small gatherings. Homes that blur the line between indoors and outdoors are seen as more liveable and future-ready.

4. Technology is expected to be helpful, not showy

Smart features are welcome, but only when they simplify life. Buyers prefer lighting, temperature control, and security systems that work quietly in the background. The focus is on comfort, safety, and efficiency rather than flashy gadgets that feel complicated or intrusive.

5. Sustainability is viewed as common sense

Mature homebuyers are thinking long term. Energy-efficient materials, water-saving features, and durable construction appeal because they reduce running costs and environmental impact. The idea is simple: a well-designed home should be easier and cheaper to live in over time.

6. Flexible Layouts Matter More Than Fixed Rooms

The way people live and work has changed, and buyers want homes that can adapt. A room that works as a study today and a guest room tomorrow is highly valued. Design that allows spaces to evolve with changing needs is seen as practical and smart.

7. Kitchens are still central but more thoughtful

Kitchens remain a deal-maker, but buyers are looking beyond size. They value good storage, clean layouts, and materials that age well. Kitchens are expected to support both everyday routines and social moments without feeling cluttered or overdesigned.

8. Personal touches are preferred over excess

Instead of too many finishes or decorative elements, buyers appreciate thoughtful details. Quality materials, handcrafted elements, and design choices that feel personal create a stronger emotional connection. A home that tells a story feels more meaningful than one that follows every trend.

9. Local context is influencing design choices

Buyers are drawn to homes that reflect their surroundings. Materials, layouts, and architectural details that suit the climate and lifestyle of the region make homes feel grounded and authentic, rather than generic.

10. Design is now linked to long-term value

Ultimately, design thinking helps buyers see beyond the present moment. Homes that are comfortable, adaptable, and easy to maintain are viewed as better investments. For the maturing homebuyer, good design is about living well today and staying relevant tomorrow.

As homebuyers become more thoughtful, design is no longer about trends but about how a home supports everyday living. Spaces that prioritise comfort, flexibility, and long-term value are shaping smarter real estate choices. Ultimately, good design is now seen as a quiet enabler of better living, not just a visual statement.