Survey says: High ceilings beat media rooms

A survey of builders conducted by the National Home Builders Association pointed to energy-efficient concepts, high ceilings and laundry rooms as top-of-mind construction concepts for 2015.

Not so likely are fully functional outdoor kitchens fully equipped with plumbing and appliances.

The survey asked builders for the features that they felt were most likely to be included in a typical new home this year. Topping the list with a score of 4.9 (on a 1-5 scale) was a walk-in closet in the master bedroom.

Four of the top 10 features are related to energy efficiency, low-energy windows, Energy Star-rated appliances, Energy Star-rated windows and programmable thermostats.

The survey results were presented during the International Builders’ Show in Las Vegas.