Category: House Developer News & Tips

As the demand for smaller homes continues to rise across North America, developers and homebuyers alike are looking for ways to make compact spaces feel open, livable, and efficient. According to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), the average size of new single-family homes in the U.S. has steadily declined from over 2,700 square feet in 2015 to around 2,400 square feet in 2023. With affordability, sustainability, and lifestyle simplicity driving this shift, smaller homes are more than a trend — they’re becoming a staple.

At W.L. Martin Home Designs, we specialize in house plans ranging from 400 to 2,500 square feet, which means we know how important smart design can be, especially in homes under 1,200 square feet. Here are 10 subtle yet powerful design tricks that can make small homes feel significantly more spacious without increasing the footprint.

1. Use Consistent Flooring Throughout the Main Living Areas

One flooring type across connected rooms helps blur the lines between spaces, creating a more seamless and open feeling. A consistent material like engineered hardwood, luxury vinyl plank, or polished concrete can make a 900-square-foot home feel unified and visually larger.

2. Maximize Natural Light with Tall Windows

Natural light expands a room’s visual boundaries. Floor-to-ceiling or clerestory windows in small living rooms or bedrooms bring in sunlight while drawing the eye upward, which adds a sense of height. According to ENERGY STAR, homes with proper daylighting strategies also use up to 20% less energy for lighting.

3. Opt for Open or Semi-Open Floor Plans

Removing unnecessary interior walls between kitchens, dining areas, and living rooms can make a compact home feel airy. Even in homes under 1,000 square feet, semi-open plans using partial dividers or half-walls offer separation without sacrificing openness.

4. Prioritize Ceiling Height Over Extra Rooms

Taller ceilings make any room feel more spacious. A 9- or 10-foot ceiling in a small living area adds vertical volume that enhances comfort. The NAHB has reported that taller ceilings remain one of the top desired features among homebuyers, even in smaller homes.

5. Incorporate Built-In Storage Solutions

Built-in shelving, bench seating with hidden compartments, and wall-integrated closets reduce the need for bulky furniture. Efficient storage frees up floor space and keeps clutter at bay, which is essential for maintaining a sense of openness.

6. Use Mirrors Strategically

Mirrors reflect both natural and artificial light, helping to double the visual space in a room. Installing a large mirror across from a window or placing mirrored closet doors in tight bedrooms can dramatically increase perceived space.

7. Choose Sliding or Pocket Doors Instead of Swinging Doors

Traditional swing doors require clear space to operate, which eats into usable square footage. Pocket or barn-style sliding doors are excellent alternatives in tight hallways or bathrooms, helping to free up valuable wall space.

8. Design with Light, Neutral Colors

Pale or neutral tones like soft whites, beiges, and light grays reflect more light and reduce visual barriers between walls, ceilings, and floors. According to Sherwin-Williams, lighter paint colors can make rooms feel up to 20% larger to the human eye.

9. Visually “Lift” the Room with Vertical Lines

Design elements like tall bookcases, vertical shiplap, or floor-to-ceiling curtains encourage the eye to move upward. This technique adds perceived height and gives small spaces a more elegant feel.

10. Limit Hallways and Dead-End Corners

In smaller homes, hallways can become space-wasters. Designing floor plans that eliminate unnecessary corridors and instead use open transitions between rooms makes every square foot more functional.

For developers, these small design tweaks can significantly enhance the appeal of compact homes, making them feel luxurious without increasing build costs. Buyers notice these details, and in a competitive market, homes that “feel” bigger often stand out more than homes that “are” bigger.

At W.L. Martin Home Designs, we offer hundreds of floor plans between 400 and 1,200 square feet that apply these principles effectively. Whether you’re developing a small home community, looking for infill solutions, or building ADUs, thoughtful design can help you deliver comfort and style without excess.

Interested in browsing plans that put these ideas into action? Start with our collection of small home plans designed for smart living and efficient building.

At W.L. Martin Home Designs, we understand that no two homeowners or developers are exactly alike. While many of our house plans are designed to be practical, efficient, and ready-to-build, sometimes a plan is almost perfect but not quite what you need. That’s where our home plan modification service comes in.

Whether you’re a developer building multiple units with slight variations or a homeowner looking to personalize your future home, we’re here to help make that plan work for you.

Why Modify a House Plan?

Even though our catalog includes hundreds of thoughtfully designed home plans ranging from cozy 400-square-foot cottages to spacious 2,500-square-foot family homes, every building site, lifestyle, and personal vision is unique.

You might find yourself saying:

“I love this floor plan, but I wish the kitchen was open to the living area.”
“I need a little more space in the primary bedroom.”
“This plan would be perfect if the garage were on the left side instead of the right.”
“Can we turn that den into a fourth bedroom?”

These types of requests are more common than you might think and we’ve designed our process to make these kinds of modifications straightforward and stress-free.

Common Home Plan Modifications We Handle

Here are just a few of the many types of changes our customers request:

Room reconfigurations: Adjusting the size or placement of bedrooms, bathrooms, or living areas
Kitchen layout changes: Customizing cabinetry placement, appliance locations, or adding pantry space
Garage modifications: Changing orientation, size, or even converting a garage into livable space
Foundation adjustments: Adapting plans to crawl spaces, basements, or slab foundations depending on your region
Exterior tweaks: Modifying rooflines, adding porches, or changing window styles to enhance curb appeal
Accessibility improvements: Widening doorways, reducing thresholds, or creating barrier-free bathrooms

If you have a unique vision, chances are we can make it happen.

How the Plan Modification Process Works

Making modifications to your chosen plan is a simple, personalized process. Here’s how it typically works:

1. Select a Plan You Like
   Browse our house plan catalog and find a design that’s close to what you need.
2. Reach Out With Your Requests
   You can contact us directly during the ordering process or even before placing your order to discuss any changes you have in mind. Whether it’s a quick email or a phone call, we’re happy to walk through your ideas.
3. We Review and Provide a Quote
   Once we understand your requested changes, we’ll provide a custom quote and timeline for completing your modified plan.
4. Approve and Receive Your Customized Plan
   After final approval, we’ll get to work updating your plans and deliver a revised, build-ready design that meets your exact specifications.

It’s that easy.

Developers: Streamline Your Builds with Custom Options

If you’re a builder or developer working on multiple homes, plan modifications can help differentiate models or better match local market demand. We often work with professionals who want to:

Mirror a floor plan to suit a particular lot
Create a “Plan A” and “Plan B” version of the same model
Adjust elevations to comply with HOA or zoning requirements
Add unique touches that give your community a signature look

We’re happy to help you modify one or multiple plans in your portfolio to fit your vision.

A Home Plan That Truly Feels Like Yours

Buying a pre-designed house plan doesn’t mean you have to settle for a one-size-fits-all design. At W.L. Martin Home Designs, we give you the flexibility to customize and modify plans so they fit your needs, style, and build site perfectly.

Ready to explore what’s possible?
Browse our home plans and reach out when you’re ready to customize. We’re here to make your home planning process as easy and personal as possible.

Have a question about modifying one of our plans?
Send us a message or give us a call. We’re ready to help bring your vision to life.

The idea of multiple generations living under one roof isn’t exactly new, but over the past decade, it’s become more of a priority than a preference. For many families, building a home that allows for aging parents, adult children, or extended family to live comfortably in the same house is now a smart, long-term solution. At W.L. Martin Home Designs, we’re seeing an increase in demand for home plans that feature dual primary bedrooms, in-law suites, and layouts that provide both shared and private spaces.

According to the Pew Research Center, the number of Americans living in multigenerational households has quadrupled since the 1970s. In 2021, roughly 18 percent of the U.S. population lived in a home with three or more generations. That’s nearly one in five people. The reasons are varied—rising housing costs, a desire to care for aging parents, cultural preferences—but the takeaway is clear: home designs need to evolve to accommodate this way of living.

Multi-family style homes, or homes with more than one primary suite and flexible living areas, offer a practical solution without sacrificing comfort or privacy. A well-designed in-law suite or second primary bedroom often includes a private bathroom, walk-in closet, and sometimes even a small kitchenette or sitting area. These features allow for independent living while still being connected to the main household.

Developers are catching on. Building homes with dual living potential can add serious value to a property, making it more appealing to a wider market of buyers. As demand increases for flexible housing options, a home that can comfortably house more than one family becomes a smart investment.

In our experience working with builders across North America, plans that offer these multi-use layouts often stand out because they offer more than just space — they offer options. One builder in Georgia shared that their buyers are now actively requesting layouts that allow for a mother-in-law to move in or for adult children to return home temporarily.

Another advantage of these designs is their long-term adaptability. A secondary suite might start out as a grandparent’s quarters, then later become a guest room, a rental unit, or a dedicated office. Designing with this kind of flexibility in mind not only supports today’s needs but anticipates tomorrow’s changes.

We’ve worked on a range of home plans between 1,200 and 2,500 square feet that incorporate features like private entrances for secondary suites, full en suite bathrooms in multiple bedrooms, and even duplex-style designs that share a central common space while offering complete privacy for both households. These aren’t just functional homes—they’re livable, thoughtful, and future-ready.

If you’re a developer looking to meet the needs of today’s modern families, or a homeowner planning for a multi-generational future, it’s worth considering how a well-designed home plan can make all the difference. Browse our growing collection of house plans designed for flexibility, family, and function at wlmartinhomes.com, and let’s find the right fit for your next project.

When it comes to designing a home, more and more people are thinking beyond just bedrooms and bathrooms. They’re looking for homes that reflect how they truly live—and that often includes entertaining. Whether it’s hosting game nights with friends, throwing backyard cookouts, or simply enjoying weekend movie marathons with family, having a home that’s built for entertaining can make all the difference. At W.L. Martin Home Designs, we’ve noticed a clear trend: people want spaces that are both beautiful and functional for gatherings. Fortunately, many of our house plans are designed with entertainment in mind.

Why Entertainment Spaces Matter More Than Ever

According to a 2024 survey by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), 67% of homebuyers ranked an open-concept kitchen and living area as a top priority when searching for a new home. Additionally, about 48% of homebuyers stated they specifically look for a home with dedicated entertainment space—whether that’s a media room, game room, or expansive outdoor living area. As lifestyles shift toward more home-based leisure, developers and homeowners alike are seeking plans that embrace these priorities.

Open-Concept Living: The Heart of Entertaining

One of the standout features in many of our home plans is the open-concept layout. By removing unnecessary walls and creating a seamless flow between the kitchen, dining, and living areas, these spaces become ideal for entertaining. Guests can mingle freely, conversations continue from one room to the next, and the host can stay connected while preparing food or drinks.

Plans such as The Willowcrest and The Ashland Ridge highlight this design approach with kitchens that open into large family rooms and dining spaces. Oversized kitchen islands, ample counter space, and walk-in pantries also make these designs ideal for dinner parties or holiday meals.

Outdoor Living with Purpose

Another area where W.L. Martin Home Designs shines is in the integration of outdoor entertainment spaces. Covered patios, screened porches, and even outdoor kitchens are becoming essential parts of modern home design. Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a quiet evening with friends under the stars, these features extend your living space in all the right ways.

Our Cypress Springs plan includes a rear covered porch with room for a full outdoor dining set and grill station. And with clever positioning off the main living area, it feels like a natural extension of the home—perfect for indoor-outdoor entertaining.

Bonus Rooms and Flex Spaces

Versatility is key when it comes to entertainment. That’s why many of our home plans include bonus rooms or flex spaces that can adapt to your needs. These rooms are perfect as game rooms, home theaters, or even bars. The Maplebrooke plan, for example, features an upstairs bonus room that could easily be outfitted with a pool table, projector screen, or cozy seating for sports nights.

Having an extra space that can be tailored for entertainment gives homeowners the freedom to personalize their living experience, whether they’re big on hosting or just enjoy an occasional get-together.

Smaller Homes, Big on Hospitality

It’s not just large homes that can be entertainment-ready. In fact, many of our plans under 2,000 square feet are designed to maximize usable space. The Elmwood Cottage, coming in at just under 1,500 square feet, makes excellent use of an open layout, kitchen island seating, and a connected rear porch—all without feeling cramped.

This is particularly appealing to developers and buyers in urban or suburban markets, where space may be at a premium, but lifestyle needs haven’t changed.

Designing Homes that Reflect Modern Living

At W.L. Martin Home Designs, we understand that home is more than a place to sleep—it’s a place to live, connect, and celebrate. That’s why so many of our plans feature the kinds of amenities today’s buyers are looking for. From smart layouts and open concepts to flexible rooms and inviting outdoor spaces, our designs support how people actually use their homes.

If you’re a developer searching for house plans that will attract modern buyers—or someone dreaming about your own perfect entertainment-ready space—explore our collection of thoughtfully crafted home designs. Whether you’re building small or going all out, we’ve got plans that bring people together.

As demand grows for smart, space-efficient housing, duplexes are becoming a top choice for developers. But there’s one challenge that often comes up, curb appeal. Traditional duplexes can sometimes stand out in ways that don’t blend well with nearby single-family homes. That’s where thoughtful design makes all the difference.

At W.L. Martin Home Designs, we’ve seen increasing interest in duplex plans that offer two units under one roof while still presenting the appearance of a single-family home. These types of plans are especially attractive in suburban neighborhoods, historic areas, and communities where architectural consistency is important.

The key to designing a duplex that doesn’t look like a duplex comes down to layout and exterior design. Side-by-side entrances are a common giveaway, so many of our most popular plans feature staggered entries, shared porches, or one entrance that’s positioned discreetly on the side. Rooflines that flow naturally, evenly spaced windows, and consistent materials across the facade help maintain a cohesive, single-home look while still giving each unit its own identity.

Interior design plays a role too. With smart use of shared walls and mirrored or flipped floor plans, each unit can feel private and well thought out. Even compact duplexes with less than 2,000 square feet total can feel surprisingly livable when every square foot is put to good use.

For developers, these kinds of duplexes offer a valuable balance. You get the efficiency and income potential of a multi-family property combined with the neighborhood-friendly appearance of a single-family home. This design approach can also help with faster approvals in areas that are more design-conscious or have restrictive zoning and HOA guidelines.

W.L. Martin Home Designs offers a growing collection of duplex plans built around these ideas. Whether you’re building on a narrow city lot or developing a small community, we have plans that meet the demand for both practicality and curb appeal.

Explore our duplex plans today or reach out to customize one for your next build.

If you’ve ever driven through different parts of the country, you’ve probably noticed that homes in Florida look nothing like those in Colorado or Ohio. While trends and tastes play a part, the bigger story lies in how climate, geography, local materials, and building regulations shape the way homes are designed in each region.

At W.L. Martin Home Designs, we keep these regional factors in mind when creating house plans. Our collection is built to be versatile, offering flexible solutions for developers and builders no matter where in the U.S. you’re building.

Why Florida Homes Don’t Include Basements

In Florida and many coastal regions, basements are nearly nonexistent. This is largely because of the high water table. In many parts of the state, digging even a few feet down means hitting groundwater. That makes basements impractical and expensive due to the risk of flooding and the extra work required to waterproof them.

Instead, most homes in Florida are built on concrete slabs. This foundation type is efficient, cost-effective, and better suited to the moist, sandy soil. Florida homes also commonly feature stucco exteriors and concrete block construction for durability against humidity, termites, and frequent storms.

Why Brick Homes Are Popular in Texas

In Texas, brick homes are everywhere. This isn’t just a stylistic choice. Brick is abundant locally, making it a practical and affordable option for builders across the state. It’s also highly durable in Texas’ hot, dry climate, where it provides natural insulation and requires very little upkeep.

Many homes in Texas are designed with function in mind. You’ll often see single-story layouts with open floor plans to keep interiors cool. Rooflines are typically low and simple, which helps in areas where high winds can be a concern.

Midwestern Homes Prioritize Function Over Flash

The Midwest is known for practical, reliable home design. From Craftsman to ranch-style homes, most Midwestern architecture focuses on durability and year-round livability. Since the region experiences both hot summers and cold winters, homes are often built with energy efficiency and weather resistance in mind.

Basements are common in the Midwest. The frost line is deep enough that builders already have to dig down, so adding a basement makes sense and provides extra storage, storm protection, and living space. Roofs tend to be steeper to handle snow, and porches or mudrooms are popular additions that help homeowners manage the changing seasons.

Northern Homes Are Built for Cold and Snow

In northern states like Minnesota, Maine, and parts of the Northeast, homes are designed for long winters and heavy snowfall. Basements are not just an option; they’re often a necessity. They help insulate living areas from the cold and provide space for heating systems and other utilities that need protection from freezing temperatures.

These homes often have high-pitched roofs to prevent snow from accumulating. Materials are chosen for their insulation properties, and triple-pane windows are common to keep homes warm during bitterly cold months. Entryways frequently include enclosed porches or mudrooms to manage snow-covered gear and boots.

Homes in the Desert Southwest Have a Distinct Look

The Southwest, including states like Arizona and Nevada, features homes that are typically flat-roofed with a stucco or adobe exterior. These designs are heavily influenced by Spanish and Pueblo architecture but also suit the desert environment.

Flat roofs are more practical in dry climates where rainfall is minimal. Thick exterior walls provide insulation against extreme heat. Outdoor living is a priority here, so many homes include shaded patios or interior courtyards that offer relief from the sun while extending usable space.

Mountain Homes Are Built for the Elements

In places like Colorado or Utah, mountain homes are designed for elevation, snow, and rugged terrain. These homes typically use natural materials like stone and wood to blend into the surroundings, and they often have large windows to capture views of the landscape.

Builders need to consider factors like snow loads, insulation, and even the angle of sunlight at different times of year. Roofs are steep, mechanical systems are robust, and there’s a focus on energy efficiency and sustainability.

Local Building Codes Influence Design Choices

Beyond climate and materials, local building codes also shape home design. In California, for example, homes are often built with earthquake safety in mind, requiring special framing and foundation systems. Along the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts, hurricane codes influence everything from roof strapping to window strength. In the Midwest, tornado-prone areas may require reinforced safe rooms or basement shelters.

These regulations are crucial for safety but also influence how plans are drawn, what materials are used, and how builders approach construction in each region.

How W.L. Martin Home Designs Meets Regional Needs

At W.L. Martin Home Designs, we know that no two regions are alike. That’s why our home plans are designed with flexibility in mind. Whether you need a slab-on-grade foundation for the Southeast or a basement-ready blueprint for the North, our plans are ready to adapt.

We work with developers and builders across North America who face different climate, terrain, and code challenges in every market. Our plans range from efficient 400-square-foot homes to spacious 2,500-square-foot designs, and we’re always happy to help you modify a plan to better suit your project’s location.

From snowy cities to sun-drenched deserts, we’ve got the house plans that fit your build site and your buyer’s lifestyle. Browse our plan collections today and find your next design solution, wherever you’re building.

When you’re building a new home, especially one designed for today’s market of energy-conscious buyers, solar power is no longer a fringe option. It’s quickly becoming a standard feature. More homeowners and developers alike are looking for ways to reduce long-term energy costs, improve resale value, and meet rising demands for sustainable living. Fortunately, solar panel technology has made significant advances, and thoughtful roof design in modern house plans is making installation easier than ever.

At WL Martin Home Designs, we’re seeing increased interest in energy-ready home plans, especially among developers looking for future-proof features that make their homes more marketable. Integrating solar into new homes is not just smart, it’s strategic.

The Rise of Solar in New Construction

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, solar energy use in residential construction continues to grow steadily. As of 2024, over 4 million American homes have solar panels installed, with projections aiming for 13 percent of U.S. homes powered by solar by 2030. This rise is driven by improved technology, lower panel costs, and more aggressive tax incentives.

The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) reported that the average cost of installing residential solar has dropped by more than 50 percent over the last decade. Coupled with federal tax credits and state-level incentives, the financial case for solar in new builds is stronger than ever.

How Roof Design Affects Solar Efficiency

Not all roofs are created equal when it comes to solar readiness. One of the biggest challenges for retrofitting older homes with solar panels is roof angle, shading, and insufficient structural support. But new construction homes, especially those under 2,500 square feet, can be designed from the start with solar in mind.

Many of our house plans here at WL Martin include features that naturally support solar integration such as south-facing rooflines to maximize sun exposure throughout the day, simple gable or shed rooflines that make installation easier, minimal roof obstructions for better panel layout, and steeper pitches that improve sun exposure and help with snow runoff in northern climates.

Developers choosing designs with these considerations can market homes as solar ready, which not only appeals to environmentally conscious buyers but also adds long-term resale value.

Financial Incentives and Solar Tax Credits in 2025

One of the most compelling reasons to integrate solar into new homes right now is the Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit. In 2025, homeowners who install solar can claim 30 percent of the installation cost as a federal tax credit, which can add up to thousands in savings.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the numbers:

• Average installation cost: $20,000
• 30 percent tax credit: $6,000
• Net cost after credit: $14,000

Many states also offer additional rebates, net metering, and performance-based incentives. Developers who build homes ready for solar can educate buyers on these savings, increasing appeal and shortening time on the market.

Benefits for Developers

For builders and developers, solar isn’t just about sustainability, it’s a smart sales tool. Energy-efficient, solar-ready homes often sell faster and for higher prices. In some areas, like California, new homes are now required to include solar panels by code. Offering solar-ready homes also positions developers as forward-thinking and eco-conscious, which resonates with younger and tech-savvy buyers. And when solar is added across multiple homes in a development, bulk purchasing and streamlined installation can bring down costs even more.

A Design-First Approach

One of the best strategies is to plan for solar during the design phase. Whether you’re building a cozy 800 square foot cottage or a compact 2,400 square foot family home, our team at WL Martin Home Designs can help incorporate rooflines and orientations that simplify future solar installations.

We offer a growing selection of solar-compatible house plans, with clean roof geometry, optimal roof pitch, and minimal obstructions that make life easier for solar installers and more attractive to buyers.

Final Thoughts

As solar panel technology continues to evolve and the demand for energy-efficient homes grows, developers have a prime opportunity to stay ahead of the curve. By selecting smart, solar-ready house plans from the beginning, you’re setting the foundation for long-term value both for your business and for future homeowners.

Want to explore plans that are solar-compatible? Browse our house plans at wlmartinhomes.com or reach out to our team. We’re here to help you design for tomorrow.

As homebuyers become more conscious about how their homes function day to day, developers are paying closer attention to efficient design and smart use of space. It’s not just about square footage anymore. It’s about how well a home supports everyday life—whether that’s through lower utility bills, multi-functional layouts, or features that make a home feel more modern and connected.

Efficiency has become a driving factor in home design. From energy use to space planning, homeowners want houses that work harder without costing more. For builders, that means starting with smart, streamlined floor plans that eliminate wasted space and prioritize natural light, airflow, and practical room layouts. In homes under 2,000 square feet, these decisions make a noticeable difference.

Smaller homes, when well-designed, can actually feel more spacious than larger ones with inefficient layouts. Open-concept kitchens and living areas, well-placed windows, and simple shapes all help create a home that’s easier to build, more affordable to maintain, and just more comfortable to live in. At W.L. Martin Home Designs, many of our most popular plans are under 1,800 square feet and are built around these principles.

Modern design also goes hand in hand with smart living. That doesn’t just mean having the latest tech gadgets—it means creating homes that support how people live today. Dedicated spaces for remote work, built-in storage that keeps clutter out of sight, and layouts that balance open living with quiet, private spaces are all part of the conversation. Even small features like mudroom benches, walk-in pantries, or laundry areas tucked behind sliding barn doors can enhance the overall experience of a home.

For energy efficiency, thoughtful orientation and window placement are key. Homes designed to take advantage of natural light reduce the need for artificial lighting, and windows placed to promote airflow can lower cooling costs during warmer months. Many of our plans are designed with these principles in mind and can be adapted to different regional needs or personal preferences.

Developers are also thinking more about future-ready features. While some homebuyers are interested in solar panel compatibility or electric vehicle charging readiness, others simply want homes that are well insulated, equipped with energy-efficient HVAC systems, and built with quality materials that perform over time. These kinds of choices don’t always have to break the budget, especially when they’re built into the plan from the beginning.

The best home designs today are those that quietly work in the background to make life easier. They’re not just stylish—they’re smart. They help homeowners stay organized, keep energy costs low, and enjoy the spaces they spend the most time in. That’s why at W.L. Martin Home Designs, we prioritize function just as much as form. Our plans blend modern aesthetics with practical features, so builders can deliver homes that meet the expectations of today’s buyers.

If you’re developing new homes and looking for designs that are flexible, efficient, and aligned with modern living, we invite you to explore our collection. From compact starter homes to mid-sized family houses, we offer plans that help you build smarter without sacrificing style or comfort.

Smart design isn’t just a trend—it’s the new standard. Let’s build something better, together.

The way we live and work has shifted permanently over the last few years, and the housing market is still catching up. One of the biggest design priorities in 2025 isn’t an oversized kitchen or a luxurious primary suite—it’s a quiet, functional space for getting work done. Whether it’s full-time remote work, hybrid office hours, or simply a place to handle everyday tasks, home offices have gone from a bonus feature to a necessity. For developers, that change is creating new demand for house plans that prioritize smart, flexible workspace design, even in homes with smaller footprints.

While the initial wave of remote work during the pandemic sparked a temporary trend in home office furniture and Zoom backgrounds, today’s buyers are looking for something more intentional. They’re seeking homes where the work-from-home experience feels integrated, not improvised. This means a dedicated room, a tucked-away nook, or a flex space that doesn’t feel like an afterthought. In homes under 2,000 square feet, that kind of thoughtful design becomes even more valuable.

What’s especially interesting is that this shift isn’t limited to larger, custom homes. In fact, many of the buyers fueling today’s real estate market—Millennials, Gen Z professionals, and even downsizing Baby Boomers—are more interested in efficient layouts that do more with less. They don’t necessarily want more square footage, but they do want every square foot to serve a purpose. As a result, developers are actively seeking house plans that use space creatively, like designs that include pocket offices, built-in desk areas off the hallway, or flex rooms that can transition between an office, a guest room, or a hobby space.

At W.L. Martin Home Designs, we’ve seen growing interest in plans that include these kinds of flexible layouts. Even among our smaller plans, many feature a den, study, or bonus space that can easily be adapted for remote work. Some developers are also requesting small adjustments to existing plans, such as adding French doors to a front-facing room or reworking closet space to accommodate built-in shelving and work surfaces. These little tweaks can make a big difference when marketing a home to buyers who work from home even a few days a week.

From a builder’s perspective, offering homes with a designated workspace adds a level of appeal without significantly increasing construction costs. It also helps differentiate your product in competitive markets where many buyers are still focused on lifestyle and functionality. A quiet workspace with natural light and a bit of separation from the main living area can be just the detail that helps close the deal.

As buyer expectations evolve, developers who pay attention to how people live and work will be best positioned to meet demand. And in 2025, that means planning for remote work—not as a passing trend, but as a core part of the home design itself.

If you’re looking for house plans that prioritize both smart square footage and the needs of today’s remote and hybrid workers, W.L. Martin Home Designs has you covered. Explore our collection of customizable plans or reach out for help finding the right fit for your next build.

Across North America, the housing crisis continues to dominate headlines, and industry voices like Barbara Corcoran are calling attention to what many developers already know: the real problem isn’t just affordability, it’s supply. There simply aren’t enough homes being built to meet demand. For builders and developers, this challenge presents an opportunity. Scalable, efficient house plans can play a critical role in addressing the gap between what’s needed and what’s currently available.

According to the National Association of Realtors, the U.S. faces a shortage of 5.5 million housing units. Canada, too, is dealing with a supply crunch, with the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation estimating the country needs 3.5 million more homes by 2030 to restore affordability. While zoning, labor shortages, and material costs all factor into the slowdown, one of the most immediate ways to speed up development is by using pre-designed, permit-ready house plans that are designed for flexibility and efficiency.

That’s where scalable house plans come in. These are plans that can be used across multiple lots, in various layouts, and with customizable options to meet different municipal codes and buyer needs. For developers building anywhere from a handful of homes to entire neighborhoods, scalability helps control costs, reduce construction timelines, and ensure consistency across builds. Just as important, these plans can be tailored with subtle design variations—rooflines, porch styles, material finishes—to avoid repetition and create curb appeal, even when the base layout remains the same.

Smaller floor plans are seeing a resurgence in demand as buyers look for practical, lower-cost entry points into homeownership. Infill lots and secondary housing initiatives are being embraced by many cities, opening new opportunities for compact homes under 1,200 square feet. These types of homes not only take less time to build, they also align with energy-efficiency goals and long-term affordability. For developers, using high-quality small home plans can mean faster turnarounds and a better response to local demand.

Another advantage to using pre-designed scalable plans is speed to market. With housing shortages pressing, developers don’t always have time for lengthy custom design phases. Working with a plan provider who offers ready-to-build options, along with customization support where needed, means projects can break ground faster. That’s not just good for business—it’s also good for communities that are eager to see more housing options come online.

Solving the housing crisis isn’t something one developer or one strategy can achieve alone. But scalable, thoughtful design is one part of the puzzle. When builders can move quickly and efficiently using proven plans, it brings us all one step closer to narrowing the gap between supply and demand.

As Barbara Corcoran said, “You can’t sell what you don’t have.” For developers, having the right plans in place is the first step toward building what’s needed.