Survey: Homeowner Want Upscale Features

Washington, D.C., February 27, 2007--As kitchens have evolved into the most popular room in the home, consumers are increasingly looking for high-end appliances, additional pantry space, island work stations, wine storage areas and recycling centers. The number of bathrooms in homes is also increasing with radiant floors, multi-head showers, dual sink vanities and towel warming products emerging as the most popular features. 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 2006.

“There is a strong desire to integrate the kitchen with living space that allows for a more open home environment with the ability to converse and access entertainment options while in the kitchen,” said AIA Chief Economist Kermit Baker, PhD, Hon. AIA. “There has also been a sharp rise in demand for renewable materials for countertops and flooring, as well as dedicated areas for recycling.”

Link to the full report: http://www.aia.org/aiarchitect/thisweek07/0223/0223b_res.cfm

“Accessibility and universal design to accommodate an aging population are on the rise in bathrooms,” Baker added. “From an amenities standpoint heated floors lead the way, followed by multiple showers and towel warming racks, with the popularity of whirlpools dropping for the second consecutive year.”

Popular kitchen products and features*

• Upper-end appliances: 65.2

• Increased pantry space: 64.2

• Renewable flooring material: 53.3

• Wine refrigerators / wine storage: 53.0

• Integration with living space: 52.5

• Recycling center: 48.3

• Island work areas: 43.0

• Natural stone countertops: 42.2

• Drinking water filtration systems: 37.0

• Duplicate appliances: 34.0

Popular bathroom products and features

• Radiant heated floors: 62.4

• Multi-head showers: 61.9

• Accessibility / universal design: 47.5

• Doorless showers: 47.3

• Linen closet / storage: 36.4

• Hand showers: 35.5

• Multiple vanities: 26.5

• Dressing / cosmetic areas: 22.9

• Towel warming drawers / racks: 22.1

• Whirlpool baths: -24.3

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