Thursday, March 17, 2016

Kitchens and bathrooms remain the primary focus for homeowners upgrading their homes—and many are introducing cutting-edge features into their designs. These modern appointments, according to the American Institute of Architects (AIA), are mostly centered in the kitchen.

“Because kitchens are so central to the home, people feel it’s important to spend time and money selecting materials and appliances that reflect who they are and make them feel good,” says Dawn Zuber, chair of the AIA’s Custom Residential Architects Network (CRAN). “Architectural lighting is a key component in good kitchen design, too, as it allows people not only to see what they are doing, but to highlight the cabinets, countertops, and appliances that are important to them.”

According to the AIA, the most popular kitchen features and products are:

1. LED Lighting
2. Computer Area/Recharging Station
3. Upper-End Appliances
4. Larger Pantry Space
5. Drinking Water Filtration System
6. Double Island
7. Adaptability/Universal Design

“Many of the new kitchen features that were really growing in popularity a few years ago have leveled off, such as larger pantry space and double islands,” says AIA Chief Economist Kermit Baker. “Popularity in LED lighting and upper-end appliances continues to grow at a strong rate.”

In bathrooms, the most popular features and products are:

1. LED Lighting
2. Stall Shower (No tub)
3. Doorless Shower
4. Large Walk-In Shower
5. Adaptability/Universal Design
6. Water-Saving Toilets
7. Radiant Heated Floors
8. Upscale Shower

Source: AIA

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