What a Dream Home Looks Like Across the Generations | 247 Blinds
News
Posted 06/01/2025


With home ownership becoming increasingly challenging in the UK, we surveyed 1,000 Brits across the country to understand how the perception of a 'dream home' changes across the generations.
Within this, we found that 61% of people don't currently live in their dream home and just over half of respondents (52%) said their idea of a dream home has become less aspirational in recent years - likely due to changing perceptions of what is achievable in 2025.
That said, Gen Z were revealed to be the most hopeful of all generations when it came to property aspirations, with 47% saying their idea of a dream home has not changed, despite an ever challenging economy and soaring costs.


Without further ado, let's break down what the dream house looks like for each generation.
Gen Z's Dream Home
Despite being the youngest generation we surveyed, a whopping 47% of Gen Z already claim to live in their dream home, surpassing all other generations. However, over half (51%) agreed that their dream home has become less aspirational in recent years, perhaps nodding towards a level of realism in their attitudes to what they can achieve.
When it comes to property types and features:
- A detached house (23%), with terraced falling closely behind (21%)
- Number of bedrooms was the most valuable house feature overall (53%)
- Outdoor space was the second most important thing to this generation (42%), and 28% of Gen Z respondents listed a large kitchen island as a must
- Gen Z (2%) has the lowest preference for a separate dining room, far less than Millennials (4%) and Baby Boomers (13%)
- Gen Z are the least likely to desire guest bedrooms in their home (2%), much lower than their counterparts Millennials (15%), Gen X (12%), and Baby Boomers (16%) - perhaps showing that this generation are not so keen on hosting and prefer a more private space.
The generation of instant aesthetics
Gen Z also took the lead as the generation that wanted to buy a home requiring little to no renovation, indicating they'd be more likely to either spend more time looking for a dream home, or pay a higher price tag for it to avoid any big projects. This comes as less of a surprise if we consider the society Gen Z have grown up in, surrounded by instant gratification, 'life hacks', and short form video content galore!
Millennial's Dream Home
Millennials were most keen to buy a home that has the right layout or structure and be able to put their own stamp on it with renovations and decorating. They also had more of an inclination towards tech-savvy homes, reflecting the growing role of technology in their everyday lives, and the desire to live more efficiently.
When it came to their opinion on features:
- Detached (36%) and semi-detached (15%) topped the list for house style
- Millennials are most likely to want to live on a farm compared to all other generations
- Number of bedrooms (42%) and outdoor space (41%) are at the top of the dream home wishlist for Millennials
- Millennials show less interest in traditional features, like bay windows (10%), conservatories/orangeries (9%), and traditional character features (5%), which are more popular amongst Generation X and Baby Boomers.
Modern takes precedence over traditional
Millennials prefer open and multifunctional spaces over formal dining areas, consistent with a more informal, flexible approach to living spaces. When paired with their lower emphasis in traditional features, this highlights a preference for a more modern home designed to be lived in.
Interior designer Amy Wilson says: "As families grow and children and pets come along, it is not surprising that millennials value space - and storage - more so than other generations. The survey found that 17% of millennials would be looking for a house with a garage and whilst rarely used for cars these days, they are a great help when it comes to maximising storage and minimising visible clutter.
"Staying in has also quickly become the new going out for this generation, likely due to busy work schedules and pricey mortgages among other factors. Therefore, having extra bedrooms for visiting friends and family is a key priority among this demographic."
Gen X's Dream Home
Sadly, only 23% of Gen X said they are currently living in their dream home, which was a contrast to their fellow neighbouring generations, Millennials (36%), and Baby Boomers (27%).
Detached took first place for this generation too, but was followed by bungalows and cottages, indicating a preference for quainter properties.
Gen X's dream home priorities:
- This generation valued outdoor space more than any other feature in their dream home (53%)
- Generation X also values large bathrooms (15%) more than Gen Z (9%), Millennials (14%), and Baby Boomers (12%)
- Saunas, cinema rooms, and games rooms are less important to them than other generations
- They prefer practical spaces like utility rooms over luxury or decorative features
It's about a room with a view
Gen X (32%) places high importance on having a view compared to Millennials (20%) and Gen Z (16%), showing they likely value the ability to enjoy scenic views, possible because of an established, settled lifestyle.
Amy also adds: "As children grow up and depart from the family home, more time is available to look to the outside, with many Gen X enjoying spending time tending to their gardens. At this age bracket, many look to invest in elevating their outdoor space, becoming a much more frequently-used element of the home."
Baby Boomers' Dream Home
This was the generation that wants to do it all from scratch. Of all the generations, Baby Boomers would be most likely to build their own home from the foundations up, to achieve the home of their dreams.
Some of the key things that Baby Boomers want from their dream home are:
- Similarly to Gen X, Baby Boomers wanted either a detached home, bungalow, or cottage as top choices
- Outdoor space, lots of natural light, garage, conservatories, and an indoor-outdoor living space are all highly important on the list
- Baby Boomers (32%) place the highest importance on having an en-suite in the master bedroom, far more than Gen X (18%), Millennials (9%), or Gen Z (8%).
- Out of all generations, Baby Boomers care least about novelties like saunas, cinema rooms, swimming pools, and bars.
It's all about comfort and space
The data suggests that Baby Boomers appreciate extra living space that can serve as a retreat, garden room, or additional lounge space as they tend to place significance on comfort, privacy, and luxury which will help them enjoy the later years of their life.
Amy shares: "At this stage in life, baby boomers across the UK are prioritising increased leisure time and where better to read and relax than in a sun soaked conservatory or orangery? Whilst seen as somewhat outdated, or at least less desirable by younger generations, for baby boomers, the hybrid of indoor and outdoor living remains a key consideration when it comes to house buying."


Right now, people's top desire is nature, outdoor space with lots of light over saunas and swimming pools.
When asked what the most important elements are in a dream home, outdoor space took first place, with half of all respondents adding this to their dream home wish list. With the rise of tightly-packed new builds on the market, outdoor space is becoming increasingly limited - and sought after as revealed by the survey findings. A large garden was closely followed by having lots of natural light (44%), meaning large windows, bifold doors, and skylights are all welcome features for many.
A nation of nature-lovers, Brits' yearning for plenty of outdoor space and sunlight reflects our busy day-to-day lives, with our homes becoming a place to relax, rest, and reset. As more households feel the financial restraints of today's economy, we're increasingly seeing the escapism presented by a foreign holiday being recreated in the form of stay-cations, making outdoor space a key 'must have' for many across the country. As part of this, 30% of Brits feel the view from home is one of the most important elements of their dream property.
If you don't currently have the outdoor space and light you dream of, there are ways to help create the illusion of this.


Amy says: "Outdoor space and light are one of the harder elements to control within a home, yet they are the most osught after in the UK. Luckily, with some simple changes, you'll be able to welcome more light into your home, helping to brighten up your space no matter which direction your property faces.
"If your home currently feels quite dark during most of the day, typically the case in north facing rooms, roller blinds are a great option. During the lighter hours, you can retract the blinds all the way up, allowing maximum sunlight to enter your home. In the bedroom, or anywhere else you need added privacy during the day, opt for Venetian blinds, which enable light to filter in whilst not exposing the full window."
"Whilst it's more difficult to alter your view from home, you can instantly elevating it through creating a statement frame with your window dressings. Try layering voile Roman blinds with floor-to-ceiling curtains rather than choosing one of the other. Not only doe this create a dramatic view frame for your window, it also gives a soft, luxurious feel similar to that found in a hotel.
How to style your house into your dream home
To some people moving into a property that already checks all their 'dream home' boxes is the ultimate goal, whereas others are up for a little DIY when it comes to curating their forever home.
Findings from the survey found that 35% would like to buy a home that was already to their taste, with little to no renovation - or even decorating - involved. Gen Z was revealed as the generation most likely to want a ready-made dream home (39%) compared to Millennials who are much more keen on renovating a property into their Perfect Fit (39%).
With half of Brits feeling that their idea of a dream home has become less achievable in recent years, Amy shares her two-step advice on how to elevate your current home, no matter its shape or size.
Find your focus with a moodboard
Amy explains: "Start with a moodboard of what your dream home looks like, adding pictures from magazines or on Pinterest, along with words that conjure your perfect ambience. After doing this, it should become clearer the style you are drawn to, and the steps needed to get there."


Step into your sceme
With outdoor space and natural light being the top desires for a dream home in the UK it's clear that the way our homes make us feel is becoming just as important as how they look. This shift suggests that many people are becoming less focused on consumerism and more on creating spaces that promote well-being and connection to nature. Interior design schemes are evolving to reflect this desire for serenity, functionality, and light.
Amy reveals: "Interior design is exceptionally personal, with everyone's dream home looking slightly different. However, three interior schemes set to dominate in 2025 are Scandinavian, contemporary minimalist, and bohemian, thanks to their foundation of connecting functionality, light and slow living. Here's how these schemes can help bring your current space closer to your dream home
Scandinavian
Scandi style has always been renowned for its simplicity and connection to nature, making it a perfect match for the dream home of today, where outdoor space and natural light are a priortiy. "Scandinavian design is once again gaining popularity because of its clean lines and serene atmosphere, which naturally complements an abundance of natural light," says Amy. The palette of white, black, and muted greens creates a calming environment that connects the indoors with the outdoors. By adding plants, textured cushions, and a gallery wall of black-and-white photos, the space feels more like an extension of nature.
"Keep your window dressings simple with white voiles or linen-look neutral Roman blinds that allow natural light to flow freely into the room," Amy advises. The idea is to create a peaceful, airy environment that feels as if it were made to embrace the natural world outside - perfect for those looking to spend more time in a light-filled space that fosters a sense of calm and connection to nature.


Contemporary Minimalist
The contemporary minimalist theme is an excellent choice for those aiming to create a serene, clutter-free sanctuary. With outdoor space and natural light at the top of the wish list, this design embraces a less-is-more approach that emphasises functionality and light. "A minimalist space often feels more open and airy, allowing natural light to flow throught the room uninterrupted," says Amy. The key is to strip back excess clutter and opt for smart storage solutions to keep the space tidy.
"Warm netural tones like mocha and soft browns are trending over cooler shades, giving the space a welcoming feel. Accessories should be kept to a minimum, but select those that add texture, such as wool blankets, sheepskins, and woven rugs," she suggests. The minimalist approach also lends itself to the growing trend of home offices, libraries, and quiet spaces, creating a tranquil area where you can focus or unwind. "Consider creating a home study nook or reading corner where you can relax without distractions - a space to disconnect from the outside world,' Amy adds.


Bohemian
The bohemian style celebrates a carefree, nature-infused lifestyle. "Bohemian design often brings in elements of nature, with layered throws, cushions, and rugs, creating a cosy, relaxed vibe that feels like an extension of the outdoors," says Amy. Incorporating plants, natural materials, and souvenirs from travels further strengthens this connection to nature.
"By creating a cosy nook near your windowsill, with floor cushions and voile curtains, you can enjoy natural light while also soaking in the views of your outdoor space," Amy advises. This approach ties perfectly into the desire to bring nature inside, allowing people to feel more grounded and at peace in their homes. It's the perfect way to create a space where light, nature, and relaxation come together.

