Posted: June 1, 2021NAHB recently recognized more than 160 single-family, multifamily, interior design, remodeling, and community projects at the annual Best in American Living Awards. The winners exemplify some of the best work being constructed in the industry today and also offer a new collection of design trends that home buyers can expect to see in homes and communities over the next several years. Check out some of the highlights from the winning projects below.
More sophisticated indoor/outdoor connections. Architects and designers are looking for every opportunity to add visual and physical connections to nature. Windows continue to be bigger and more in number; when total windows are limited due to budget, windows are thoughtfully placed to ensure each captures a view, adds natural light and improves the space. Programmed and multifunctional outdoor living. Homes feature multiple outdoor spaces, often creatively layered to respond to changes in weather, gathering size and activity. Multifamily projects are right-sizing balconies for residents to offer personal paradises that are livable and furnishable. Sanctuary spaces. Indoors, buyers crave spaces to decompress and build human connections. “Unplug zones” (no or hidden screens) are becoming popular after much time at home. Owner suites feature spa-like details and finishes. Outdoor living offers cozy and oasis-like spaces, such as sunken fire pits, old-growth trees and warm materiality. Home offices and flex spaces. New and remodeled homes offer at least one home office, often with an option or flex space for two. With more kids doing online schooling, separate work spaces are added adjacent to the kitchen that can be used for virtual school, homework, crafting, home command centers, etc. Architects take advantage of forgotten corners and circulation spaces by creating tucked-away flex areas, such as small desk nooks off a hallway. Second (messy) pantries and kitchens. If square footage allows, homes include two kitchens: the primary kitchen for entertaining, and a second separate but adjacent kitchen for prep. Back alcoves or spacious pantries offer more work space while solving the problem and mess of fully open kitchens in open plans. Updates to materiality. Varied colors, materials and textures don today’s façades and interiors. Playful materiality and maximalism in multifamily spaces, especially shared spaces, is on the rise. Neutrals, primarily white and gray, are paired with pops of color. The character of natural wood, and pairing of contrasting woods side-by-side, is emphasized; warm and natural tones are embraced. The awards are sponsored by Monogram Luxury Appliances, and the media partner is Professional Builder. See more from the winning projects at bestinamericanliving.com.
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Why do I need EPLI?
Whether your business is large or small, if you have employees then you should consider adding Employment Practices Liability Insurance, otherwise known as EPLI. Your current policy probably does not provide coverage. Commercial Liability policies exclude EPLI claims and Commercial Umbrella policies often exclude EPLI claims. EPLI Protects You Even When You Are Fault-Free EPLI protects you from expensive employment litigation. A wrongful claim can disrupt your business and result in expensive defense costs. Even winning an employment lawsuit can still result in $250,000 or more in legal fees. What is EPLI? This insurance provides coverage for defense costs and damages related to various employment-related claims including allegations of Wrongful Termination, Discrimination, Workplace Harassment, Retaliation, Privacy Rights and Negligence. Each EPLI policy will have specific coverages, so it is important to review your needs and make sure you have the coverages you need in place. Examples of what EPLI may cover include:
How COVID-19 Impacts EPLI Claims Employers may see an increase in EPLI claims related to COVID-19 especially as employees return to workplaces. Claims could be due to a number of different allegations:
Review your EPLI Before You Face a Claim EPLI premiums are rising in 2021, as much as 10 to 50 percent for some businesses such as healthcare, hospitality and transportation which have been significantly impacted by Covid-19. Although facing an additional insurance expense may not make you feel happy, it is essential to protect your business with adequate EPLI coverage. Increased layoffs in 2021 combined with Covid-19 claims are predicted to trigger an increase in age discrimination and other discrimation cases. We are more than happy to review your insurance needs and then help you get the right EPLI coverage in place. Give us a call at (610) 724-9717 or email us today [email protected]. Charlie Longen, CEO and Founder [email protected] |
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