As more homeowners prioritise comfort and efficiency, home renovation trends are evolving to meet these modern demands.
Domestic energy use accounted for more than a quarter of national energy consumption in 2022, but despite this, efficiency improvements are slow. This makes the market for eco-friendly homes even more competitive, so it’s crucial to learn how to navigate it.
In this article, we’ve summarised five key trends in modern, energy-efficient homes to help you get your foot on the ladder – or sell your property faster.
Table of Contents
Five Key Features For A Modern, Energy-Efficient Home
1. Integrated Smart Technologies
Smart homes are taking the UK housing market by storm.
Remote thermostats, smart lighting and wireless charging stations fall amongst some of the most prominent smart home trends for 2024, so it’s worth doing some research. Being able to control multiple systems within the house gives you more opportunities to save on electricity and gas.
When they’re paired with motion sensors and programmable schedules, smart lighting systems reduce your energy consumption even further. They also provide further opportunities for enhancing and customising your interior.
2. Green Materials
Sustainable building materials are a cornerstone of eco-friendly design principles, especially for home renovations in the UK. Options including reclaimed wood, triple-glazed recycled windows emphasise the benefits, both for the environment and indoor air quality.
With some careful planning, you can incorporate green materials in every room in the house too. In the bathrooms, for example, you can choose sustainable ceramics and recycled glass for shower enclosures, sinks, and the toilet cistern. In living and dining areas, try to choose reclaimed wood for the central furniture.
3. Energy-Efficient Appliances
At least eight in ten first-time buyers say that they’re likely to buy a green home, with efficiency being a high priority for prospective homeowners. As we head through 2024, it’s a critical time to upgrade and replace outdated appliances with newer, more energy-efficient models.
When you’re shopping around for new appliances, always check the labels indicating energy efficiency ratings. You should still buy your appliances based around what’s most important to you but try to prioritise efficiency where possible. In addition to reducing your dependence on electricity, efficient devices will certainly save you some money on your energy bills.
4. Enhanced Insulation & Ventilation
One of the biggest challenges faced by homeowners with older properties is keeping the warm air inside the house. Uninsulated homes lose a surprisingly large percentage of heat through cavity walls and through the roof.
Upgrading your insulation could be necessary for a truly eco-friendly renovation project. Furthermore, you may also see marked improvements in your property’s EPC by draughtproofing in addition to insulating, ensuring that no cold air gets in the house. Regardless, remember that ventilation is also key to prevent damp and moisture buildup.
5. Renewable Energy Sources
Lastly, renewable energy systems make a significant contribution to the value of your home, too.
Whether you opt for solar panels or an air-source heat pump, one of the best ways to futureproof your property is to reduce its reliance on the grid. These can still be linked to smart systems, both in the property and on your phone.
Remember, you can offset the cost of the initial investment with government-supported grants and schemes. With innovative technologies installed, prospective buyers will be more impressed with your home.