Zoom rooms, self-cleaning toilets could trend in homes in 2021

PHOENIX — As people look to upgrade homes, the coronavirus pandemic could be driving new features like “Zoom” rooms and touchless faucets, according to a report from Zillow.

“A Zillow survey found that getting a designated work space was the top reasons for employees to say they would consider a move, if they could continue working from home occasionally,” Amanda Pendleton, Zillow’s home trends expert, said.

She said buyers also want “homecation” amenities like outdoor kitchens and perhaps sellers could make the upgrades for bigger profits.

“Think spa-inspired bathrooms and maybe a games room,” Pendleton said.

“We also saw a surge in interest in vacation areas from people who work remotely now, and would just rather work remotely with a view.”

Indoor kitchens are getting attention for remodels, too.

“A lot of people got really inspired to bake and took up sourdough bread baking,” Pendleton laughed.

With or without COVID-19, Pendleton said touchless faucets and self-cleaning toilets in homes could trend next year as well.

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