I design projects for remodeling companies working with homeowners as well as working directly with homeowners in design and preparation for their upcoming projects.
Kitchens and baths have always dominated the list as priorities, but over the last 9 months the direction has definitively shifted to include what they want as much as what they need. For the most part, the wants tend to be more practical then lavish. However, I just finished a design for a client who wants (well the wife NEEDS) oil-rubbed bronze appliances. It is a nice, but modest colonial home, which does show that people are looking to spend a bit more for items they may not have considered a year or two ago.
Most projects now involve expanding the space through removal of walls and/or additions as opposed to "rip and replace". As far as amenities, kitchen clients are looking for multi-purpose spaces, and incorporating heath conscious items such as steam ovens and water filtration systems. In the bathroom, tubs seem to be making a comeback, although smaller sized, freestanding units are most popular.
Based on the increase in volume the remodelers I work with have seen over the last 9 months, in conjunction with the increased inquiries and designs in our homeowner-direct business, I'd have to say residential remodeling is on an upswing!
Jason Parsons
www.DesignBuildPros.com
Kitchens Return as Home's Nerve Center
Kitchen and bath design may be leading the housing market out of the long-lasting downturn, according to the latest Home Design Trends survey from the American Institute of Architects. Conducted in the fourth quarter of 2011, the survey found that "emphasis on kitchens is beginning to increase, with more space devoted to -- and increasing activities centered in -- this part of the home."
Around 300 U.S. residential architects completed the survey, according to Kermit Baker, AIA's chief economist.
Starting in late 2009, residential architects reported that both kitchen size and the number of food storage / preparation areas were declining. These stabilized at the end of 2010, and now almost a quarter of architects say both measurements are increasing.
Also from the survey report:
"Kitchens seem to be regaining their function as the home’s 'nerve center.' Computer stations or recharging areas for electronic devices were the kitchen features that residential architects reported as increasing the most in popularity. This was followed closely by integration with family space, continuing the long-term popularity of combining household living space with kitchen space. Adding a recycling center, expanded pantry space, and a wine storage area also rated high on the popular kitchen features list."
thumbnail image on home page courtesy of TriVistaUSA, Arlington, Va.
source for all other images: American Institute of Architects Home Design Trends Survey, 4Q 2011
On kitchen products, sustainability remains appealing. Flooring and counters made of renewable materials are most popular, followed by drinking water filtration systems.
Likewise, products promoting sustainability and efficiency remain big in the bathroom. LED lighting experienced the biggest gains, followed by water conservation through water-saving and dual-flush toilets. An uptick in doorless/no threshold showers indicates growing interest in designing and remodeling homes for an aging market.
Also regarding accessibility and the aging market, "adaptability and universal design" increased the most in popularity within bathroom design overall.
Get more AIA survey results here.
