`Architecture of the old' incorporated in Pulte designs

More and more home buyers are looking for homes that offer features such as outdoor living areas, which have been incorporated into several Pulte Homes developments, including Gresham Park in Summerlin and Cortona Hills in Southern Highlands, according to Lynn Galindo, director of marketing for the builder.

In fact, the builder offers many homes with front, side and rear courtyards. For some residents, it offers an added place for entertaining guests, enjoying the outdoors, and even increasing security by removing direct access to certain doors and windows. Galindo said it can also enhance the character of the home by softening its exterior and adding warmth to its entryway, adding that some residents install water features, fireplaces, sitting areas and outdoor kitchens to such areas.

"There has been a return to `architecture of the old,'" Galindo said. "Front porches, the de-emphasis of the garage, courtyards, historically inspired architecture and the desire to have some uniqueness in the appearance of their home is a goal of both Baby Boomers and Gen-Xers."

Also popular are computer rooms or "e-rooms," which can accommodate multiple computers. Additionally, rooms such as kitchens, alcoves and lofts are among the areas wired for technology.

Galindo said buyers seek decorative touches such as ceiling details; materials such as stone; kitchen and bath tile designs; and a variety of flooring choices, plumbing fixtures and counter tops. Expanded color choices have also become important to buyers.

All of the builder's homes feature Environments for Living building technology, and are Energy Star-certified for energy efficiency by the Environmental Protection Agency. Such homes also offer a two-year heating and cooling guarantee.

Pulte Homes, the nation's largest home builder, is developing 11 neighborhoods in Southern Nevada, and plans to open Sage Hills, Cara Vella and Wyeth Ranch.

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