
Energy-Efficient Upgrades to Include in Your Home Renovation
October 9, 2025The opportunity to build a new custom home is exciting. Understandably, any homeowner wants an end-product that not only looks stunning but also meets their lifestyle needs and offers long-term functionality.
As experienced home builders, we’ve seen many new trends rise in recent years as it relates to what homeowners are asking for in custom homes. From luxurious finishes to smart technology, the features that modern homeowners request support and define how they wish to live, entertain, and enjoy their space. Here are the top features that homeowners request when seeking a custom home build.
Open-Concept Living Spaces
One of the most common requests in a home build is an open-concept layout. Homeowners want spaces that flow seamlessly from, most commonly, the kitchen to the living room to create a sense of connectivity.
Open-concept designs not only make a home feel larger and brighter, but they also make entertaining easier. Families can enjoy the ability to cook, dine, and relax in the same area without walls interrupting the space. They also add a ton of visibility, which is helpful in terms of monitoring what’s going on with kids and guests in the home.
Experienced custom home builders understand how to maintain functionality while creating spacious, inviting interiors.
Chef-Style Kitchens
Modern homeowners often prioritize kitchen renovations in their custom homes. After all, this will be one of the most used rooms of such a home over its lifetime. Common features such as large islands, high-end appliances, custom cabinetry, and ample storage are often spoken about between homeowner and builder.
Many also request specialized cooking areas, such as walk-in pantries, double ovens, or wine storage.For those who love to host, a kitchen remodel that combines elegance and practicality is a must.
Spa-Like Bathrooms
In a custom home, you can have the bathroom of your dreams no question. As any interior designer or builder can tell you, bathrooms have evolved from purely functional spaces to personal retreats.
Homeowners increasingly request spa-inspired features like freestanding tubs, rain showers, heated floors, double vanities, and premium fixtures. With features like these, the bathroom becomes a room that clients truly look forward to using every day. Attention to detail in layout and finishes ensures these bathrooms are as functional as they are beautiful.
Energy Efficiency and Smart Home Technology
Sustainability and convenience are growing priorities in new home builds, as does technology. Homeowners are requesting energy-efficient windows, advanced insulation, and LED lighting to reduce energy consumption and costs.At the same time, smart home features like automated lighting, thermostats, security systems, and integrated entertainment technology are increasingly common. A custom home builder with expertise in modern technology can seamlessly incorporate these upgrades, providing homes that are both environmentally responsible and easy to manage.

Secondary Suites and Flexible Spaces
Another top feature homeowners request is the inclusion of secondary suites or flexible living areas.
It might be to establish a means for rental income, a room to host visiting family, or a potential future expansion. Regardless, additional living spaces increase the value and appeal of a home.A knowledgeable custom home builder can handle the complexities of additional room planning, permits, and construction to ensure these spaces are both comfortable and fully compliant with local regulations.
Outdoor Living Spaces
Homeowners increasingly value outdoor areas that extend the square footage and living space of their home. Features such as patios, decks, outdoor kitchens, fire pits, and landscaped gardens are highly requested.
Outdoor living spaces add immense value for many homeowners as one of several luxury high-end custom home features. A well-designed outdoor area with features such as those mentioned and others creates a natural connection between indoor and outdoor living, perfect for entertaining or relaxing.
In a home build, integrating these spaces requires planning, attention to detail, and a design that complements the overall home aesthetic.
Custom Storage Solutions
Storage is a practical but essential feature homeowners want built into their custom homes and with so many ways to do so, a homeowner’s creativity can almost run wild with the possibilities as can a builder’s. Walk-in closets, built-in shelving, mudrooms, and organized pantries make daily life easier and help maintain a clean home.
Custom home builders understand the importance of incorporating smart storage solutions into their designs.
Unique Architectural Details
Many homeowners want their dream home to represent themselves and their unique tastes and personality. This is where the architectural details come into play. Features like vaulted ceilings, statement staircases, exposed beams, and custom mouldings are increasingly requested by clients. These details give character and personality to custom homes, creating spaces that reflect the homeowner’s personal style.
If you aren’t sure how to make a custom home truly yours, Instagram, Pinterest, TikTok, and even HGTV are all great places to go to view unique architectural details and custom home features that you may not expect.
A skilled custom home builder knows how to balance these unique features with a build’s structural integrity and overall functionality.
High-Quality Materials and Finishes
Premium-grade materials in a custom home are non-negotiable for many homeowners. After all, when you’re paying for a new build that’s being customized for you, of course, the client wants it done right with the best materials available.
Some of the most popular materials and finishes include hardwood floors, quartz or granite countertops, premium cabinetry, and energy-efficient fixtures. These elements not only elevate the look of a custom home but also improve durability and long-term value, adding to its ability to sell further down the road.
Experienced home builders ensure that these materials are installed correctly and integrated into the overall design seamlessly.
Receive Personalized Project Management from Valleywide Custom Builders
A homeowner in want of a custom home is looking for a custom home builder who can provide personalized advice, collaboration, and project management as it pertains to getting requested features done right.
As custom home builders, we can tell you that every home build comes with unique challenges and building experience. Clear communication, regular updates, and professional oversight make the process smoother. From design decisions to timelines and budgets, we know homeowners want transparency and support throughout the construction process. This is why we make it a priority to keep clients informed every step of the way and ensure that we are a pleasure to work with.
When building custom homes, homeowners are seeking features that combine luxury, functionality, and personalization. If you’re ready to turn your vision into a reality, reach out to Valleywide Custom Builders today and start building your dream home in Kelowna.