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5 Luxury Homebuilding Trends We’re Excited About in 2025

Whitmore Homes

As our team at Whitmore Custom Homes is gearing up for an exciting 2025, we took some time to think about some of the trends we’re looking forward to following in the year ahead. Being based out of Grand Rapids, Michigan, we knew we had to mention at least one trend focused on the Mitten State, but we imagine that the rest of these trends can speak to designers and builders just about anywhere.



1. Technology in Design and Construction


If we made this list for another 50 years, technology would almost certainly be a key topic to discuss every year, so it makes sense to start here. 2025 is gearing up to be a monumental year for our company’s adoption of technology, especially when it comes to how we design our homes. Not only have the top-tier design tools become more accessible and affordable to firms of all sizes in the past few years, but more and more builders like us are taking steps to incorporate immersive technology such as virtual reality into how they create and present their designs. Companies such as Walk Your Plans are presenting new ways to partner with design/build firms to give clients a better sense of their homes before a foundation is even dug. It’s unclear how many of these tools will actually become a core part of our offerings long-term, but we’re excited to try and test out anything and everything we think can help us deliver a better client experience.


2. Embracing Traditional Design Elements


While modern minimalism has certainly had a strong moment in the past few years, we’ve noticed many of our clients are returning to seek classic architectural details that stand the test of time. We’re seeing increased demand for timeless features like detailed trim & molding, columns in porches and entryways, gabled roofs, and custom woodwork that evokes a sense of permanence and craftsmanship. The exciting thing is that these traditional elements are increasingly done with a more contemporary flair, helping us blend classic characteristics with modern style (a little bit of the best of both worlds).  This results in layouts that are both elegant and livable (our recently completed Angelview home is one great example of this modern/traditional fusion). 


3. Controlling Costs and Schedules with a Fixed Price Approach


It’s no secret that the homebuilding industry has faced challenges with fluctuating material costs and labor shortages in recent years. Unfortunately, under the traditional Cost Plus builder model, clients are left carrying the majority of the risk, cost, and headache when projects run over schedule and over budget. One particular headwind the luxury custom industry is facing is the imbalance in available skilled labor in many of the places our clients most want to live. This leads to limited options in crucial trades such as carpenters and painters, further complicating schedules and budgets. 


For 2025, Whitmore Custom Homes is doubling down on our commitment to cost predictability and schedule adherence. By leveraging strong relationships with local suppliers and maintaining a meticulous tech-enabled planning process, we’re able to lock in pricing early and minimize delays. Our fixed-price model (in which we’re able to fix three-quarters or more of the costs for our clients up front) is uniquely positioned to provide peace of mind to homeowners, ensuring that their project is completed on time and within budget without compromising on quality or craftsmanship. We’re excited to continue to refine our approach and help provide better peace of mind to our clients in the year ahead.


4. The Evolving Michigan Lakefront Luxury Market

As a custom homebuilder based in West Michigan, we’ve had the chance to work with and meet with many of the state’s leading architects, realtors, tradespeople, and fellow builders that specialize in Michigan’s lakefront. When it comes to opportunities in homebuilding throughout the state, the trend is clear - this region is emerging as a major luxury home destination. Demand for destination homes is coming from both domestic and international buyers, and that trend is sure to continue in 2025. 


Whether it’s the shores of Lake Michigan (the “third coast” of the U.S.) or one of the state’s beautiful inland lakes, these locations deserve homes that seamlessly integrate with their natural surroundings. We’re thrilled to be breaking ground on multiple Michigan lakefront projects in 2025, and learning more about the exciting evolution of the region in the years to come.


5. Imbuing Hospitality into the Build Process

Building a home should feel as rewarding as living in it. In 2025, Whitmore Custom Homes will enhance our approach to customer service by treating the build process like a luxury hospitality experience. Preparing for this service evolution in our business has been a valuable exercise in examining every step of how we serve our clients and our communities. A more evolved hospitality experience means clear and proactive communication, personalized touches, and a dedicated team that anticipates client needs every step of the way. By fostering trust and excitement, we ensure that every Whitmore home is not just a place to live but a reflection of our clients’ vision and aspirations. We’re committing to our clients and to each other to always be on the forefront of where design, construction, and hospitality intersect.


We hope these trends serve as insight into how we’re thinking about the year ahead for our business, and provide you with some ideas to bring into your own projects. Wishing you success and happiness in 2025 - wherever you may be. And if you’re interested in learning about how we can help bring your vision to life in a new build or renovation, we’d love to speak with you!


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