WHY WOMAN-CENTRIC

Last update: February 7, 2008 - 5:43 PM

WHY WOMAN-CENTRIC

Women are the major decision-makers in new-home purchases, according to a 2005 Smith-Dahmer Associates market study. And that's why participating builders and their staff are trained and certified by Design Basics in Omaha to design and market new houses to women.

One strategy is color-coded floor plans that identify four "lifestyle zones" they say are important to women:

1 Flexible living. Versatile rooms that can evolve as your family situation changes and can be used as an office, exercise room, craft area, den, playroom, study or in-law suite.

2 Entertaining. Open living spaces connected to one another and kitchens that encourage gathering around a center island.

3 Abundant storage. Rear foyer (known in most houses as the mud room) lockers for coats and boots. Drop spots (with outlets) for laptops, phones and mail to keep clutter out of the kitchen. Oversized kitchen pantries and linen closets. Separate his and hers walk-in closets.

4 De-stressing. Private owner's suite with a soaking tub, oversized shower, dual vanity. Laundry room is separate from the mud room or rear foyer to keep chores out of sight.

For more information, go to www.womancentricmatters.com.