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Increased Interest in Sustainable Materials for Kitchens and BathsRenewable materials and energy-efficient products for kitchens and baths have risen in popularity, while economic concerns among homeowners has resulted in a decline in demand for high-end appliances and features.
To accommodate an aging and less mobile population, there is also a greater emphasis on accessibility and adaptability throughout the home.
These findings are from the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Home Design Trends Survey focused specifically on kitchen and bathrooms in the fourth quarter of 2007.
Residential architects have reported the weakest business conditions in the three-year history of this survey, indicating that the housing market is not poised for a recovery in the near term.
"Kitchens continue to be the dominant design area within the home, with dedicated computer work areas or cell-phone and personal digital assistant recharging stations becoming an emerging trend.
There is also a growing interest in eco-friendly features for kitchens such as bamboo and cork flooring, and concrete and bamboo countertops," said AIA Chief Economist Kermit Baker, PhD, Hon. AIA.
A recent AIA poll of registered voters revealed that 90% of respondents said they would be willing to pay $5,000 more for a house that would use less energy and protect the Earth.
more: www.aia.org/aiarchitect/thisweek0... (68)
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AIA > Architecture Organizations
February 18, 2008 | Viewed 34,876 time(s)
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