Five Timeless Design Trends from a Residential Architect That Continue to Inspire Our Work in Upstate New York
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At Conklin Architecture, we know that no two projects — or clients — are alike. Every home or commercial space we design as a residential architect is shaped by its surroundings, its purpose, and the people who will use it. That’s why “cookie-cutter” isn’t in our vocabulary. Our team of residential architects is dedicated to creating unique environments tailored to our clients’ needs.
Rooted in the Hudson Valley, and serving the Catskills, Berkshires, Adirondacks, and beyond, our work is informed by the natural beauty of upstate New York and by decades of combined experience. Over the years, we’ve seen design trends come and go — but some have proven to be truly timeless. These are five enduring features our clients request again and again, and how we bring them to life.
As a residential architect, we focus on the unique needs of each client, ensuring that every design reflects their vision.
1. Maximized Natural Light
Natural light transforms a space, making it feel open, warm, and connected to its surroundings. When a project calls for it, we carefully consider window placement, perform solar tracking studies when needed, and incorporate skylights to flood rooms with daylight while preserving privacy.
2. Open-Plan Living
The appeal of open, flowing spaces never fades. We design layouts that connect living, dining, and kitchen areas for a sense of openness, while still creating subtle distinctions between zones to support different activities.
3. Concrete Floors
Polished concrete floors offer a perfect balance of durability, low maintenance, and modern style. We work with trusted local contractors to ensure they’re not only beautiful but functional — delivering thermal mass benefits that help regulate indoor temperatures year-round.
4. Big Windows
Large windows are a defining feature in many of our residential architecture projects. We approach them with a balance of aesthetics and performance, thoughtfully positioning them to capture the best views, optimize solar orientation, and maintain both privacy and energy efficiency.
5. Energy-Efficient Solutions
Sustainability is always in style. We incorporate passive solar design principles, high-performance insulation, and energy-efficient systems to reduce environmental impact and operating costs — all without compromising comfort or beauty.
Design trends may spark inspiration, but bringing them to life takes careful planning, deep local knowledge, and an understanding of each client’s unique goals. For us, every project is an opportunity to create a space that reflects its landscape, its owner, and the values we share as a community.
In the end, our goal is simple: to partner with clients and design spaces that capture both their lifestyle and the beauty of the place they call home — whether that’s a modern farmhouse in the Hudson Valley, a lake house in the Adirondacks, or a mountain retreat in the Catskills.
