Model homes set the standard for aspirational design, combining functionality and storytelling while showcasing the possibilities in a new build. They are also designed to appeal emotionally.
Here are three model homes that demonstrate how an intentional approach to color, texture, and curated style makes all the difference.
1. Farm Fresh Style
Styled by Ampersand Living for Shea Homes
The vibe: Organic, textural, layered.
The backstory: This model is located in Fox Point Farms, an agrihood community in San Diego. The community offers a large organic farm, wellness-oriented spaces, and a focus on farm-to-table cooking.
One of the highlights of this home is a show-stopping kitchen, pictured here, that has the stamp of approval from professional chefs. Visiting chefs for Fox Point’s onsite, high-end, farm-to-table restaurant stay in this model.
The inspiration. “This model home is a testament to how a standard new build can be elevated into something soulful, inviting, and entirely bespoke,” says Julie Dillon, founder of Ampersand Living.
The model draws inspiration from the lush farmland nearby, with moody hues, organic textures, and earthy, collected accents. “The result is a space that feels grounded and elevated, with every detail considered,” says Dillon.
Get this look in your new home: Textural elements are an effective way to infuse warmth and personality for the mood you want to create.
Dillon suggests:
Layering texture is all about intention and contrast. Begin with the foundational elements, then work outward.
Light fixtures, wallpaper, throw pillows, and even styling accents on a coffee table all offer opportunities to play with depth.
Don’t be afraid to mix finishes or introduce something unexpected. Every detail contributes to the overall mood.
2. Chic, Curated Comfort
Styled by Ultimate Builder Solutions for Beazer Homes
The vibe: Warm, dramatic, sophisticated
The backstory: This model is located in Valencia, a master-planned community near Houston, Texas, with idyllic nature trails, lakes and resort-style amenities. It demonstrates the capacity of color to elevate the entire home, and the power of curated design.
“This home seamlessly blends elegance, comfort, and everyday functionality, designed to resonate with the discerning move-up buyer looking for their forever home,” says Jennifer Jensen of Ultimate Builder Services.
The inspiration: In a curated aesthetic, each element has a role to play in setting the style tone.
“We curated a warm, grounded palette using bold, yet balanced design moments,” says Jensen, from a dramatic gallery wall in the foyer, cozy leather sofas in the living room, and layering in textures for a refined look with depth.
Get the look in your new home: Neutrals pack a punch when you expand the neutral palette to greens, blues, taupes, tans and muted pinks.
“For years, social media has pushed a steady stream of gray and ivory, leading many homeowners to forget that neutrals go far beyond just two shades. Neutrals can absolutely have personality, when they're chosen with intention,” says Jensen.
3. Townhome With Global Vibes
The vibe: Welcoming, family-friendly, light-filled.
The backstory: This model is located in Auburn Glen, a family-focused townhome community, close to good schools with resort-style amenities in Atlanta. “With warm, earthy color palettes and open-concept layouts, these homes reflect a welcoming and grounded aesthetic that appeals to diverse families and professionals alike,” says Denise Hodgdon, Atlanta model operations manager for Taylor Morrison.
The inspiration: “This model showcases a rich blend of warm tones contrasted with charcoals and blacks, creating visual interest and depth throughout the home,” says Hodgdon.
The finishes are from Taylor Morrison’s Canvas program, which includes curated, designer-inspired collections to help narrow down selections for your new build.
“One of the standout features in this home is the strategic use of black in accessories, furniture, and paint. This not only adds sophistication and contrast but also contributes to the relaxed, comfortable atmosphere that makes the space feel effortlessly livable.” says Hodgdon.
Get the look in your new home: Open-concept floor plans flow, but it can be hard to create a cozy vibe without walls. A fireplace is an excellent way to anchor the space, create warmth and create conversational clusters.
“A key element consistently emphasized in all our models, and clearly demonstrated here, is the thoughtful space planning of the great room. It’s designed to feel instantly welcoming, encouraging guests to relax and settle in.
The overall symmetry of the space, combined with the contrast between the cabinetry, artwork, and light-toned walls, creates a design that is visually engaging yet simple,” she says.
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Hero image courtesy of Taylor Morrison
