What consumers are looking for in a home has changed due to the housing downturn, accoridng to a study from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB).

Builders expect consumers will want smaller homes that will average 2,152 square feet in 2015, a 10 percent decrease from than the average size of single-family homes started in the first three quarters of 2010. These smaller homes will likely combine the living room and another space in the home to save on square footage, according to the survey. Some builders said they believe the living room will vanish entirely.

The average new home of 2015 is likely to feature a great room comprised of the kitchen, foyer and living room; a walk-in closet in the master bedroom; a laundry room; ceiling fans; a master bedroom on the first floor in homes with two stories; and a two-car garage, the survey revealed.

Nearly three-quarters (68 percent) of builders surveyed said they believe homes in 2015 will also include more green features and technology, including low-E windows; engineered wood beams, joists or tresses; water-efficient features such as dual-flush toilets or low-flow faucets; and an Energy Star rating for the whole house.