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21st-century housing: what are the changes in contemporary construction, design trends, and costs? - Infobae
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www.infobae.com
March 17, 2025
Integration and flexibility are gaining prominence. What materials and spaces should developers prioritize to meet new demands?
By Jose Luis Cieri
The kitchen takes on a central role in modern homes. The open concept takes center stage, integrating with the living and dining areas to enhance functionality and comfort (Illustrative Image: Infobae)
The real estate market is evolving with a growing demand for functional homes that meet energy efficiency, sustainability, and flexible design criteria. Buyers are looking for properties that maximize comfort and technology.
Modern architecture has transformed the way spaces are conceived, with a focus on integration with the outdoors and the optimized use of spaces, a trend that has become more pronounced in the last two years.
Unlike previous decades, where compartmentalized construction predominated, the current trend is toward homes with open layouts, greater natural light, and innovative materials that reduce maintenance costs and improve thermal and acoustic insulation. Furthermore, they must adapt to changing lifestyles and the possibility of remote work, with versatile and efficient spaces.
With a recovering market, demand for properties with amenities, green spaces, and technological solutions has increased. This is forcing developers to rethink construction standards, integrate concepts, and consider future property appreciation.
"We created spacious and flexible spaces, integrated with green areas and exclusive amenities. More than half of the land is dedicated to these spaces, seeking to promote sports, socializing, and contact with nature," he emphasized.
Even though it is a studio apartment, the connection with the outside is vital (Photo Courtesy: Be Desarrollos)
The layout of the rooms has also evolved. Natural lighting takes center stage, with large windows connecting the interior with terraces and gardens. The spaces are flexible and seek to optimize the use of every square meter. “The separation between social and private areas improves functionality and comfort,” Lorenzo explained.
In addition, the projects incorporate spaces such as coworking , private workspaces (individual or shared work areas within a residential building), and recreational areas that were not previously a priority.
Bicycle racks are essential as part of modern amenities.
Green spaces, rest areas, and efficient planning of the residential environment are also gaining prominence in new developments.
Along the same lines, solar panels became a key element in reducing electricity consumption in common areas and emergency lighting. "Sustainability is no longer an afterthought, but a necessity," said Gómez Araujo.
Several homes that are currently under construction will be inaugurated in two or three years.
At the Lumena development, located in Parque Patricios, 24/7 internet connectivity technology was also incorporated into all spaces, including functional units.
Kuperman explained: "We are committed to an infrastructure that allows for uninterrupted service and the use of solar energy for its supply."
In addition, advances in home automation and automation expand the possibilities for home efficiency.
Good artificial and intelligent lighting and monitored access areas are key to the buyer's choice (Photo courtesy of Kuan Real Estate Developments)
Smart lighting systems, programmable thermostats, and electronic locks are some of the innovations that are redefining the experience of living in a modern home.
Landscape design also gained greater importance. “It not only serves an aesthetic purpose, but also promotes connection with nature and creates areas for relaxation,” Lorenzo said.
Furthermore, current developments include recreational, sports, and socializing spaces within the complex, addressing the need to reduce travel and optimize time.
Javier Schvartz , of Kuan Desarrollos Inmobiliarios, stated that energy efficiency and integrated technology are fundamental aspects of modern housing. “The design of spaces with thermal and acoustic insulation, automated lighting, and intelligent air conditioning are elements that are redefining the market,” he stated.
Added to this is the trend toward modular homes, which can be adapted to the changing needs of owners.
In MilAires, priority was also given to the green and open spaces on the land where the proposal is being built in Villa Devoto (Photo courtesy of Ecipsa)
Reconfigurable spaces, phased expansions, and multifunctional furniture are some of the solutions most valued by today's buyers.
After reaching historic levels, construction costs have stabilized, although in the city of Buenos Aires they do not fall below USD 1,600 per m2 .
Functional furniture is also key in the decoration of new homes in the 21st century.
Access to private financing is a key factor in today's market. In the case of BE Desarrollos, plans are offered with up to 50 installments in pesos, and unit ownership is allowed with only a 30% down payment and monthly payments equivalent to the rental price. "This allows families to move in without waiting to complete the full payment on the property," Kuperman explained.
Units start at USD 80,000, with square footage ranging from 52 m2 to 103 m2.
Gómez Araujo added: “We are focusing on the southern part of Buenos Aires ( the new Buenos Aires Urban Planning Code aims to expand this area of the city ), which has good connectivity and green spaces, and where the value per square meter still has room to grow.”
In addition, modular closets with sliding doors and integrated LED lighting systems optimize space and enhance the user experience.
On the top floors there are usually private terraces.
In living rooms, the concept of spacious spaces connected to the outdoors continues to grow. Large openings with black or anodized aluminum frames and low-emissivity glass allow more light to enter without losing thermal efficiency.
Wood-look porcelain tile floors are gradually replacing traditional materials, offering durability, easy maintenance, and visual continuity with other spaces. Natural stone clad walls or decorative tiles in neutral tones are also becoming more popular, adding texture and sophistication.
In bathrooms, the materials chosen prioritize durability and ease of cleaning. Quartz or synthetic marble countertops are gaining ground over granite due to their resistance to moisture and low maintenance.
Black or anodized aluminum frames, along with low-emissivity glass, allow more light to enter without losing thermal efficiency. A building about to open in the Saavedra neighborhood
Black or gold faucets with water-saving technology are trending, while tempered glass screens have replaced traditional curtains, improving the aesthetics and functionality of the space. As for wall coverings, large-format panels in light tones create spaciousness and visual continuity.
Outdoor spaces have also evolved. Gardens seek to integrate vegetation with sustainable elements, such as draining floors and automated irrigation systems.
On the balconies, laminated glass railings allow for a greater connection with the surroundings, while synthetic decking replaces traditional wood due to its greater durability.
In materials, Schvartz mentioned innovations such as photovoltaic glass , which generates energy from sunlight, and bioplastic bricks (made from recycled plastic, which are a sustainable alternative to traditional clay or cement bricks), which reduce the environmental footprint.
Floor-to-ceiling openings are key to letting in natural light.
"Drone monitoring systems are also being used to optimize construction and reduce waste," he added.
Modular construction and 3D printing are gaining ground, allowing for reduced costs and construction times. Buyers increasingly value energy efficiency and automation.
Javier Schvartz concluded: “Smart lighting, temperature sensors, and advanced security systems have become market standards.”
www.buysellba.com
Source:
Viviendas siglo XXI: cuáles son los cambios en la construcción contemporánea, tendencias en diseño y costos
La integración y la flexibilidad ganan protagonismo. Qué materiales y espacios deben priorizar los desarrolladores para responder a una demanda con nuevas exigencias
www.infobae.com
March 17, 2025
Integration and flexibility are gaining prominence. What materials and spaces should developers prioritize to meet new demands?
By Jose Luis Cieri
The kitchen takes on a central role in modern homes. The open concept takes center stage, integrating with the living and dining areas to enhance functionality and comfort (Illustrative Image: Infobae)
The real estate market is evolving with a growing demand for functional homes that meet energy efficiency, sustainability, and flexible design criteria. Buyers are looking for properties that maximize comfort and technology.
Modern architecture has transformed the way spaces are conceived, with a focus on integration with the outdoors and the optimized use of spaces, a trend that has become more pronounced in the last two years.
Unlike previous decades, where compartmentalized construction predominated, the current trend is toward homes with open layouts, greater natural light, and innovative materials that reduce maintenance costs and improve thermal and acoustic insulation. Furthermore, they must adapt to changing lifestyles and the possibility of remote work, with versatile and efficient spaces.
With a recovering market, demand for properties with amenities, green spaces, and technological solutions has increased. This is forcing developers to rethink construction standards, integrate concepts, and consider future property appreciation.
Functional and integrated spaces
Modern homes prioritize a seamless connection with their surroundings. Germán Lorenzo , commercial manager of MilAires, Ecipsa's development in Villa Devoto, explained that quality of life is the central focus of current projects."We created spacious and flexible spaces, integrated with green areas and exclusive amenities. More than half of the land is dedicated to these spaces, seeking to promote sports, socializing, and contact with nature," he emphasized.
Even though it is a studio apartment, the connection with the outside is vital (Photo Courtesy: Be Desarrollos)
The layout of the rooms has also evolved. Natural lighting takes center stage, with large windows connecting the interior with terraces and gardens. The spaces are flexible and seek to optimize the use of every square meter. “The separation between social and private areas improves functionality and comfort,” Lorenzo explained.
In addition, the projects incorporate spaces such as coworking , private workspaces (individual or shared work areas within a residential building), and recreational areas that were not previously a priority.
Bicycle racks are essential as part of modern amenities.
Green spaces, rest areas, and efficient planning of the residential environment are also gaining prominence in new developments.
Materials and technology
Lucas Gómez Araujo and Brian Kuperman of BE Desarrollos told Infobae that modern materials must be durable, low-maintenance, and sustainable. "We currently use cellular concrete bricks, which reduce energy consumption in air conditioning, and gray water systems, which allow us to reuse water from showers and sinks for toilets, achieving a 20% savings," they explained.Along the same lines, solar panels became a key element in reducing electricity consumption in common areas and emergency lighting. "Sustainability is no longer an afterthought, but a necessity," said Gómez Araujo.
Several homes that are currently under construction will be inaugurated in two or three years.
At the Lumena development, located in Parque Patricios, 24/7 internet connectivity technology was also incorporated into all spaces, including functional units.
Kuperman explained: "We are committed to an infrastructure that allows for uninterrupted service and the use of solar energy for its supply."
In addition, advances in home automation and automation expand the possibilities for home efficiency.
Good artificial and intelligent lighting and monitored access areas are key to the buyer's choice (Photo courtesy of Kuan Real Estate Developments)
Smart lighting systems, programmable thermostats, and electronic locks are some of the innovations that are redefining the experience of living in a modern home.
What can't be missing
Modern homes to be built between 2025 and 2027 must have spacious, flexible spaces that can be adapted to different uses. “The integration of spaces is a growing trend. Open kitchens with islands that separate social and private spaces are becoming more common,” explained Gómez Araujo.Landscape design also gained greater importance. “It not only serves an aesthetic purpose, but also promotes connection with nature and creates areas for relaxation,” Lorenzo said.
Furthermore, current developments include recreational, sports, and socializing spaces within the complex, addressing the need to reduce travel and optimize time.
Javier Schvartz , of Kuan Desarrollos Inmobiliarios, stated that energy efficiency and integrated technology are fundamental aspects of modern housing. “The design of spaces with thermal and acoustic insulation, automated lighting, and intelligent air conditioning are elements that are redefining the market,” he stated.
Added to this is the trend toward modular homes, which can be adapted to the changing needs of owners.
In MilAires, priority was also given to the green and open spaces on the land where the proposal is being built in Villa Devoto (Photo courtesy of Ecipsa)
Reconfigurable spaces, phased expansions, and multifunctional furniture are some of the solutions most valued by today's buyers.
Prices and financing
The price per square meter in high-quality projects like MilAires starts at USD 3,700 for two- and three-bedroom units, with projections exceeding USD 4,000 by 2027. “The development has steadily appreciated in value,” Lorenzo said.After reaching historic levels, construction costs have stabilized, although in the city of Buenos Aires they do not fall below USD 1,600 per m2 .
Functional furniture is also key in the decoration of new homes in the 21st century.
Access to private financing is a key factor in today's market. In the case of BE Desarrollos, plans are offered with up to 50 installments in pesos, and unit ownership is allowed with only a 30% down payment and monthly payments equivalent to the rental price. "This allows families to move in without waiting to complete the full payment on the property," Kuperman explained.
Units start at USD 80,000, with square footage ranging from 52 m2 to 103 m2.
Gómez Araujo added: “We are focusing on the southern part of Buenos Aires ( the new Buenos Aires Urban Planning Code aims to expand this area of the city ), which has good connectivity and green spaces, and where the value per square meter still has room to grow.”
What materials are used most
In bedrooms, the trend is toward incorporating thermal and acoustic materials that improve the quality of sleep. PVC frames with double-glazed windows and natural wood or vinyl cladding are increasingly used to provide insulation and warmth.In addition, modular closets with sliding doors and integrated LED lighting systems optimize space and enhance the user experience.
On the top floors there are usually private terraces.
In living rooms, the concept of spacious spaces connected to the outdoors continues to grow. Large openings with black or anodized aluminum frames and low-emissivity glass allow more light to enter without losing thermal efficiency.
Wood-look porcelain tile floors are gradually replacing traditional materials, offering durability, easy maintenance, and visual continuity with other spaces. Natural stone clad walls or decorative tiles in neutral tones are also becoming more popular, adding texture and sophistication.
In bathrooms, the materials chosen prioritize durability and ease of cleaning. Quartz or synthetic marble countertops are gaining ground over granite due to their resistance to moisture and low maintenance.
Black or anodized aluminum frames, along with low-emissivity glass, allow more light to enter without losing thermal efficiency. A building about to open in the Saavedra neighborhood
Black or gold faucets with water-saving technology are trending, while tempered glass screens have replaced traditional curtains, improving the aesthetics and functionality of the space. As for wall coverings, large-format panels in light tones create spaciousness and visual continuity.
Outdoor spaces have also evolved. Gardens seek to integrate vegetation with sustainable elements, such as draining floors and automated irrigation systems.
On the balconies, laminated glass railings allow for a greater connection with the surroundings, while synthetic decking replaces traditional wood due to its greater durability.
Design modifications
Home design has evolved over the past two years. The trend is toward integrated, multifunctional spaces. "Bedroom suites and storage spaces have become essential, as have kitchens integrated into the living room," Kuperman emphasized.In materials, Schvartz mentioned innovations such as photovoltaic glass , which generates energy from sunlight, and bioplastic bricks (made from recycled plastic, which are a sustainable alternative to traditional clay or cement bricks), which reduce the environmental footprint.
Floor-to-ceiling openings are key to letting in natural light.
"Drone monitoring systems are also being used to optimize construction and reduce waste," he added.
Modular construction and 3D printing are gaining ground, allowing for reduced costs and construction times. Buyers increasingly value energy efficiency and automation.
Javier Schvartz concluded: “Smart lighting, temperature sensors, and advanced security systems have become market standards.”
www.buysellba.com
