Value-adding home features start with wise decisions made during the design and construction process. From natural light and efficient layout to durable materials and flexible spaces, the right features can make your daily life easier, brighter and more comfortable. If you’re planning on building a new home, investing in thoughtful features from the start can pay dividends in both comfort and long-term value.
In this Redfin article, designers and industry experts share the home features they believe truly stand the test of time. Whether you’re building a home in Gilbert, AZ or renovating in Sugar Land, TX, these ideas will help you focus on the improvements that are most important to your comfort and long-term value.
In this article:
1. Natural light and smart home orientation
2. Built-in storage to reduce clutter
3. Flexible bonus room near the master bedroom
4. Energy efficient windows and insulation
5. A warm kitchen that feels like a living room
Best home features that add long-term value
1. Natural light and smart home orientation
One of the simplest yet most impactful features of a home is a well-designed layout with plenty of natural light. Proper orientation and thoughtful design improve comfort, efficiency, and the overall experience of living in a space.
“The most important features for a home are natural light, solar orientation, and a simple layout,” says Russell Buchanan, FAIA, of Buchanan Architecture. “The best natural light is from the north. The correct sun orientation is on the east/west axis. A simple layout is a rectangle with a pitched roof. These three features improve quality of life, provide an energy-efficient and sustainable living environment, and create a more durable and low-maintenance structure.”
The key takeaways from this feature are:
Natural Light: North-facing windows provide steady, soft sunlight, increasing comfort and reducing reliance on artificial lighting. Sun Orientation: Orienting your home on an east-west axis maximizes energy efficiency and supports a sustainable living environment. Simple Layout: A rectangular layout with a pitched roof is easy to maintain, durable, and creates a functional flow throughout the home.
2. Built-in storage to reduce clutter
Smart storage solutions are one of the best home features because they make your daily life easier and keep your home organized. Built-in storage maximizes space without visual clutter, making rooms feel larger and more functional.
Here’s how built-in storage can improve your home.
Walk-in pantry: Perfect for keeping your kitchen organized and reducing countertop clutter. Custom Closets: Customized storage solutions make your bedroom and dressing area more efficient. Entryway and entryway storage: Keep your entryway tidy while neatly storing your shoes, coats, and gear. Hidden cabinets: Seamlessly integrate storage into your living area for a clean look.
3. Flexible bonus room near the master bedroom
A small, adaptable room near the master bedroom is one of the most versatile features of the home. These spaces can be customized to a wide range of needs, making them valuable for both daily living and long-term flexibility.
“Small rooms near the master bedroom can be very useful. These spaces can easily be customized into your dream closet, VR studio, home office, home gym, nursery, mini-lounge, and more,” imagines Shannon Ggem of Shannon Ggem Design. “One of my favorites was the rare book room for a client with an extensive collection, one of four libraries in the house. I also designed a massage room for athletes, a makeup studio for on-air personalities, and a gaming studio for a famous gamer.”
Practical ways to make the most of your flexible bonus room:
Home office or studio: Perfect for remote work, creative projects, or VR setups. Exercise or Wellness Room: Keep health and relaxation close to home with a personal gym, yoga space, or massage room. Children’s room or family space: useful with small children or as a cozy lounge for reading or hobbies. Customized Storage or Library: Incorporate shelving for collections, books, or personal items for a functional and beautiful space.
4. Energy efficient windows and insulation
Energy-efficient windows and proper insulation are essential home features that improve comfort while reducing energy bills. These upgrades create a more consistent indoor environment, isolate noise, and help homeowners save money on heating and cooling over the long term.
The main benefits are:
Lower energy bills: High-performance windows and well-insulated walls reduce energy consumption year-round. Improved comfort: Maintains a consistent temperature throughout your home to prevent hot and cold spots. Noise Reduction: High quality windows and insulation create a quieter and more peaceful living environment. Long-term value: Energy-efficient upgrades are attractive to buyers and can increase resale potential.
5. A warm kitchen that feels like a living room
The kitchen is more than just a place to cook; it’s often the heart of the home. A warm, modern kitchen blends style and function, creating a space that feels both inviting and practical, connected to the rest of the living area.
“High-end kitchens that blend integrated cabinetry and organic textures like honed natural stone and natural wood are hallmarks of high-end homes,” says Tanya Lacourse, lead designer at Violet Marsh Interiors. “This ‘warm modern’ approach creates a sophisticated cooking space that feels like a natural extension of the living room, rather than a cold, utilitarian zone. Layered with sculptural lighting and artisanal hardware, the kitchen becomes the heart of a truly soulful home. ”
Key elements for a kitchen that combines comfort and style:
Integrated cabinets: Keep space streamlined while providing functional storage. Natural materials: Wood, stone and other organic textures add warmth and a cozy feel to your kitchen. Lighting and Hardware: Sculptural lighting and artisanal hardware add character and visual interest. Open flow: The design connects the kitchen and living area, making the space feel larger and more sociable.
Best home features that add long-term value
Investing in the right home features can transform your home into a space that truly suits your lifestyle and increase its value. From thoughtful layouts to flexible rooms and beautiful kitchens, small upgrades can make a big difference in your daily life. By focusing on comfort, convenience, and durability, you can create a home that you enjoy now and a smart investment for your future.
