The American Institute of Architects recently released their Home Design Trends Survey for the 4th quarter of 2012. Tapping the experiences of over 500 residential- focused architecture firms, the report found that homeowners are increasingly remodeling their kitchen and baths to add value to their homes. The growth in these projects is seen as an indicator of a turn-around in the housing market. Highlights from the report include:
Kitchen Design Trends
- Architects revealed that kitchens are not getting bigger, but expectations for their role in the home are changing.
- Technology is becoming a focus. Computer areas, as well as recharging stations for laptops, smartphones and tablets, are common elements in kitchen redesigns.
- The kitchen continues to serve as the central family gathering place, moving design to incorporate many uses into the space. Areas for homework, watching television, playing games and entertaining are being included.
- Recycling stations and increased pantry space are also popular trends.
- Sustainable products are being used more often in high-end kitchen remodels, particularly in countertops and flooring.
Bathroom Design Trends
- Though the number of bathrooms is increasing slightly, the size of bathrooms has seen large growth.
- Designing a bathroom with a shower but no tub is becoming commonplace.
- Aging-in-place is being incorporated into bath design more and more as homeowners look to stay in their homes. Doorless/no threshold showers, grab bars, and comfort-height toilets are some elements being included.
- Architects are seeing attention to sustainability increasing in bathroom design as well. Water-saving fixtures, LED lighting and dual-flush toilets are some examples of homeowner design requests.
CaseIndy designers are experiencing many of the same design trends in home remodels in the Greater Indianapolis area. The move to open, multi-use kitchens as well as the influx of technology into the space has been the subject of many of our articles. In the bathroom, aging-in-place remodels have become a focus for us, as well as luxury showers. Adding value to our clients’ homes is our number one goal however. Therefore, we will continue to evaluate the rising trends in home remodeling as they apply to our area.
Have questions on how these home remodeling trends affect your home value? Send us an email or give us a call at 317-846-2600.
