Survey Reveals Generational Divide in Home Design Preferences

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — A new survey reveals that 83% of American homeowners believe it’s easy for a home to lose its original charm and become outdated. The poll, conducted by Talker Research on behalf of Realty ONE Group, surveyed 2,000 homeowners evenly split across generations, uncovering stark differences in design preferences and priorities.

The survey found that while 56% of respondents appreciate original hardwood floors and 37% value ornate woodworking, certain features like popcorn ceilings, root cellars, and telephone nooks are universally disliked, with only 8% approval across all generations. Baby boomers (39%) admitted that fully carpeted homes were a misstep, while 16% of millennials are ready to move on from “millennial gray.” Gen Z, however, favors bold trends like wallpaper (31%), stained glass windows (30%), and wood paneling (26%).

Generational divides also emerged in broader design aesthetics. “Farmhouse chic” is losing popularity among younger generations, with only 28% of Gen Z and 34% of baby boomers favoring the style. Meanwhile, “Mid-Century modern” homes are falling out of favor with Gen X (25%) and baby boomers (16%). Animal prints are five times more popular with Gen Z (16%) than with baby boomers (3%), while nautical themes (23%) and boho styles (21%) remain popular with younger homeowners.

Outdoor features like yards (57%), garages (54%), and outdoor spaces (53%) are universally valued, though priorities vary by generation. Gen X prioritizes grilling spaces (36%), baby boomers value trees and shrubbery (42%), and Gen Z favors pools or hot tubs (32%). Community factors like safety (69%) and neighbor friendliness (53%) are also key considerations, with Gen Z equally valuing shopping access (42%) and millennials prioritizing quality schools (48%).

Kuba Jewgieniew, CEO and Founder of Realty ONE Group, emphasized the importance of working with a real estate professional. “One of the most critical aspects to buying a home, especially in this market, is working with a real estate professional who helps you differentiate your ‘needs vs. wants’ and find the perfect compromise,” he said.

The survey also highlighted the home-buying process, with 35% of respondents purchasing homes in unfamiliar towns and 34% open to doing so. On average, the process took six months from decision to move-in. While 29% worked with a realtor from the start, 21% relied on online searches. Most homeowners (67%) believe their current home is their “forever home.”

Respondents shared valuable advice for first-time buyers, including taking time to review options, focusing on needs over wants, and hiring a property inspector. Jewgieniew added, “A real estate pro will take care of the intricacies of buying or selling your home so you can focus on what’s most important.”

The survey was conducted online between Nov. 15 and Nov. 19, 2024, with 2,000 homeowners evenly divided among Gen Z, millennials, Gen X, and baby boomers.