As demand for townhomes soars in Charlotte, local experts spotlight the trends shaping their design and the features buyers are seeking now. With an increased focus on individuality and functionality, the latest preferences reflect a significant shift in home design.
According to Andrea Seymour, co-founder and CEO of Springdale Custom Builders, newer townhomes are less likely to look copied and pasted than older units. "These ones have a metal roof, different sizes of siding, and lots of character and dimension," she says. Her firm recently completed a six-unit townhome building in Plaza Midwood, showcasing a more modern vibe that contrasts with the traditional neighborhoods closer to the city.
Privacy has become a key concern among buyers, leading to thoughtful landscaping solutions. Seymour recommends tall hedges or trees, decorative screen panels, pergolas, and planters on back patios. "We’re putting horizontal wood fencing around back patios so they have some privacy off the back," she explains, noting that the fencing is painted to match the building for a cohesive look.
Post-COVID, the need for workspace has surged. Gray Shell, president of Tri Pointe Homes’ Charlotte division, notes that many buyers now want a workspace or office nook in their homes. He points out that single individuals or couples often prefer three-bedroom homes to accommodate an office or exercise room. Tim McCollum, owner of Revolve Residential, refers to these small office spaces as "pocket offices"—"little 6-by-8 or 8-by-10 spaces where you can tuck an office in."
Jorge Cruz, Hopper Communities’ architectural manager, highlights the importance of maximizing space in narrower townhome designs. His LoSo Terraces townhomes, which are only 16 feet wide, feature an upstairs flex space that can be enclosed or left open. "A lot of people use it as an office. It’s nice because it’s away from the bedrooms and main living space," he says.
In terms of aesthetics, higher-end buyers are increasingly requesting at least 9-foot ceilings on the first floor. Tiffany Sears, CEO of The Sears Group, states, "With higher ceilings, you can have taller windows." Many buyers are looking for larger windows to let in natural light, which not only makes spaces feel larger but also enhances air circulation and adds a contemporary look.
Rooftop terraces have also seen a rise in popularity. McCollum notes that they were relatively rare before 2019-2020, but now many communities are incorporating them into all units. This trend allows residents to enjoy private outdoor spaces without taking up additional land, an essential consideration for infill developers.
Pet-friendly features are another trend gaining traction. Shell mentions that more than half of their buyers have dogs, particularly in their South End location, where about 90% of residents are young singles and couples. As a result, buyers are prioritizing walkability, outdoor trails, and dog parks over traditional amenities like pools and fitness centers.
Smart home technology is now a must-have for today's buyers. Seymour highlights features such as keyless entries, Nest thermostats, and integrated phone chargers in countertops. "We recently installed Bluetooth speakers in a shower," she says. "It’s not cheap, but it’s a nice feature. There are no cords all over your kitchen, and they’re compatible with any device."
Open floor plans have also become the norm, moving away from the separate dining and living spaces that dominated home designs two decades ago. Cruz explains, "Open floor plans also make a space feel bigger," as they allocate more space to eat-in kitchens where people naturally gather.
Color trends are shifting as well. Sears observes a move away from stark white kitchens and the neutral gray tones that have been ubiquitous in recent years. Instead, buyers are opting for richer, vibrant colors in cabinetry, such as deep blues and hunter greens. "Maybe the cabinets are one color, and the island is a different shade," she adds.
Storage remains a top priority, especially in narrower townhomes. Cruz emphasizes the importance of integrating functional storage solutions into designs. "We try to allocate space for more closets and extra storage closets, especially in areas where you might not think you can fit something," he says. Seymour concurs, noting that mudrooms, walk-in closets, and pantries add significant value to homes.
Lighting choices are also evolving, with higher-end buyers seeking statement chandeliers, pendants, and sconces. "They want more interesting lighting; no one wants the standard builder-grade anymore," Sears states. Many new builds now include a credit to a lighting design center, allowing buyers to select their preferred fixtures. Incorporating reflective surfaces like glass, mirrors, and metallic accents can enhance brightness and create a modern look.
Finally, kitchens and bathrooms are recognized as high-return investment areas. Seymour notes that these are the spaces where residents spend the most time, and a well-designed kitchen with high-end appliances can add 4% to 7% to a home's value. As Charlotte's housing market continues to evolve, these trends reflect a growing desire for personalization, functionality, and modern aesthetics among homebuyers.
