Home design trends, like summer in Utah, can be fleeting. However, there are some trends that seem to last in popularity, simply because of the benefit they offer. According to the San Diego Tribune, there are five hot trends that should last for quite some time. In one way or another, each trend offers the home owner and improved quality of life with benefits like better health, lower maintenance, and greater comfort.

Here are the five:

1. Automation and Integration

These systems are actually becoming more user-friendly and more affordable for many home buyers. “This industry used to be all about thermostats and lighting — focused on energy savings. Today’s it’s everything from temperature, lighting, shades, audio, locks and security — all focused on convenience as well as energy,” shares Dan Jackson, research and development manager for Crestron Electronics, one of the manufacturers in this fast-growing industry.

2. Healthy Living

Touchless faucets and toilets reduce the spreading of germs, while steam showers offer stress-reducing benefits. But this trend doesn't stop at amenities. It's extending into space design, with spa-like master bathrooms and workout centers; even storage spaces designed especially to hold vitamin bottles are big business.

3. Sustainability

This is a natural crossover from healthy living. If the materials used are sustainable, not only are they better for the environment, but they are better for our health, as well.

4. User-Focused Design

Features that make life easier for the home owner are also big these days. Engineered stone looks good, and doesn't require the maintenance of say granite or marble. For the aging baby boomers, amenities like handrails and wider walkways are a growing trend.

5. Clean and Contemporary

People are looking to simplify, and they want their homes to reflect that. Sleek cabinet fronts with minimalist hardware appeal to busy, multi-tasking homeowners.