A couple of generations ago, the dining room was a bit of a status symbol.

However, as most of us with one know, it is often the most underused room in the house and often becomes a dumping ground for all the stuff that just doesn’t fit anywhere else.

So it should probably come as no surprise that new research shows buyers are happy to sacrifice a dining room in favour of open plan living. Fitted wardrobes and conservatories are also falling out of fashion with modern buyers instead prioritising garden rooms and underfloor heating.

The analysis by property website Rightmove reveals which home features have grown the most in popularity, based on the number of agents advertising them as key selling points.

Garden rooms top the list,swiftly followed by bi-fold doors, summerhouses and electric car charging points, the latter reflecting the demand for eco-friendly credentials.

Adrienne Minster, CEO of Rated People, said: “Homeowners want to reduce their impact on the planet and cut the cost of bills by making their homes more environmentally friendly – in fact, the number one reason for making eco improvements is to lower their bills. So, with the rising cost of living and increasing awareness of the importance of living sustainably, it’s no surprise to see that more homeowners are choosing to make greener swaps and invest in the likes of underfloor heating.”

Author:   Sarah Freeman, V&A Homes