AIA: Kitchen and Bath Size Increasing, More Demand

Washington, DC, March 2, 2006--Kitchens have become the focal point of many U.S. households, and as a result homeowners are looking for increased pantry space, have a preference for high-end appliances and features, and a desire for integration with family space. Bathrooms are increasingly being designed with more room for separate or double vanities, and include upscale products like multi-head showers, steam showers, and heated floors and towel racks. These findings are from The American Institute of Architects (AIA) Home Design Trends Survey focused specifically on kitchen and bath trends in the fourth quarter of 2005. “Both the square feet devoted to kitchens and the number of separate cooking facilities throughout the home are increasing, including the additions of outdoor kitchens in many areas of the country. As far as specific trends in kitchen design, granite countertops, natural wood cabinets, and drinking water filtration systems are especially popular,” said AIA Chief economist Kermit Baker. “Upscale products and features are going into bathroom design as well, noted by heated floors and towel racks, and even fireplaces becoming more common in homes, while heat lamps and whirlpools aren’t nearly as prevalent.” Popular kitchen products and features • Larger pantry space: 56% of firms reported increased popularity • High-end appliances: 55% of firms reported increased popularity • Integration with family space: 53% of firms reported increased popularity • Natural stone counters: 53% of firms reported increased popularity • Island work areas: 35% of firms reported increased popularity • Natural wood cabinets: 32% of firms reported increased popularity • Synthetic solid surface countertops: 37% of firms reported decreased popularity Popular bathroom products and features • Multi-head shower: 63% of firms reported increased popularity • Steam shower: 35% of firms reported increased popularity • Multiple vanities: 29% of firms reported increased popularity • Separate showers: 28% of firms reported increased popularity • Heat lamps: 41% of firms reported decreased popularity • Whirlpools: 31% of firms reported decreased popularity

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