The white picket fence was once a powerful symbol of the American Dream. In 2025, it might no longer reflect what matters most to you. If you're designing a home that fits how you truly live—flexibly, intentionally, and comfortably—it might be time to go beyond the fence.
At AV Architects + Builders, we’ve noticed more homeowners breaking away from traditional layouts. They want homes that support multigenerational living, wellness, remote work, and deeper connection. The design tips that follow reflect this shift and offer ideas you can use in your own custom build.
By the end of this article, you’ll see that your dream home doesn’t need to follow a standard template. You’ll come away with real-world inspiration—ways to create a space that matches your pace, supports the people you love, and adapts with you through life’s chapters.
The Solar House, Arlington, Virginia, AV Architects + Builders, Photography by Maxwell Mackenzie
Many homes still follow a set formula: two floors, four bedrooms, a formal dining room, and a backyard. That model worked in a different era—when families were smaller and roles more rigid.
Today, your needs may have shifted. If you spend more time at home or want space for loved ones to visit, you’ll benefit from thinking beyond traditional design. You can even explore how the white picket fence shaped past ideals in this deep dive by This Old House.
The fence itself isn’t just wood and paint—it’s a mindset. It reflects predictability and conformity. But design today should reflect your values, not someone else's expectations.
Going beyond the fence doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort. It means rethinking spaces so they support how you cook, gather, unwind, and live every day. This essay from Play Outdoors Magazine beautifully captures that freedom.
The Hill House, McLean, Virginia, AV Architects + Builders
Going beyond the fence opens up new questions:
When your home reflects your real lifestyle, it becomes more than a shelter—it becomes a tool for well-being.
1. Design Around Your Life—Not a Floor Plan
Start with your day—not square footage. What parts of your routine could be easier? Where do you feel most focused or relaxed?
Designing around your routine might mean adding a prep kitchen, moving laundry close to the bedroom, or turning a spare room into a flexible office. You’re creating spaces that support how you live.
Learn more in our guide to expanding your home and upgrading your life.
2. Break the Boundaries with Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Living
Indoor-outdoor flow makes your home feel larger and more connected to nature.
Think folding glass walls, screened porches, or shaded patios. A breakfast nook that opens to your garden or a firepit for evening chats can turn unused space into a favorite spot.
3. Build in Wellness with Intention
Wellness design adds comfort in small but powerful ways.
Let in natural light. Use soft flooring. Create a room with calm acoustics. You could even try a stretch space, cold plunge, or hidden sauna. It’s about creating places where you can breathe, reset, and recharge.
For more ideas, see our guide on designing a healthy home.
4. Peninsula Out, Island In
Kitchen peninsulas once divided space. Today, kitchen islands create connection.
Islands bring people together while adding function. Whether you're prepping dinner, working on school projects, or serving snacks, an island makes the heart of your home more usable.
5. Think Tech-Ready, Not Tech-Heavy
Smart homes aren’t just for tech enthusiasts—they’re for anyone who values comfort, efficiency, and ease. Imagine lights that adjust automatically as the day winds down, thermostats that learn your preferences, or an EV charger built right into your garage. The best technology in a home doesn’t scream for attention—it quietly works in the background to support your lifestyle.
If you’re wondering where to start, this real-world story offers a refreshing perspective on stepping into smart living for the first time—without the overwhelm.
When planning your custom smart home, you might think beyond entertainment systems and look into everyday functionality: smart home security systems for peace of mind, lighting scenes tailored to your mood, or voice control to simplify your morning routine.
The beauty of smart living? You can start simple and scale as you go. It’s not about more tech—it’s about the right tech for your life.
6. Create Space for Both Connection and Privacy
Homes feel better when they balance openness with solitude.
In multigenerational homes, it helps to have quiet zones—like an extra office or private guest suite. Flex spaces can shift from playroom to retreat.
Need more on this? Check out our article on multigenerational living.
7. Unconventional (But Thoughtfully Intentional) Ideas
Some features once seemed bold, but now they make perfect sense:
Explore more in our post on designing the ultimate entertainer's home.
8. Main-Level Living: A Must for Multi-Generational Households
If your household includes multiple generations, consider designing with accessibility in mind.
A primary suite, guest room, and laundry on the first floor make life easier for everyone. It’s elegant, future-friendly, and full of benefits.
Learn more about this trend in our post on main-level living.
9. Bold Features That Bring True Luxury Home
Luxury doesn’t have to mean big or flashy. It can mean thoughtful design choices:
Luxury is how your home feels—and how it supports your lifestyle.
All great homes start with questions. What makes you feel relaxed? What spaces do you return to? What brings your family together?
We’ve seen that the most meaningful homes aren’t based on size or price. They’re built around real life—your life.
If you’re ready to move beyond the white picket fence:
Need inspiration? Visit our Learning Center for more design insights. Or contact our team to explore your own home vision.