FEATURE STORY
Remodeling Trends for 2011 T
he National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) conducted an exclusive poll of top builders and developers and found that while most people are not starting major renovation projects due to the economy,
homeowners feel now is the time to take care of the smaller jobs around the home. Additionally, consumers are indicating that the most important goal in home renovation this year is to incorporate trends with staying power, not ones that will become dated as soon as construction ends.
So, what remodeling projects are on top of the 2011 list?
1. Bathrooms Rule: When homeowners see the old tile getting a little grungy, they want a fresh look. It appears that 2011 is the year for a bathroom update. Bathrooms are the hottest project right now; possibly because baths cost less than a kitchen or an addition. Plus, people desire the luxury of a spa in the comfort of their own homes.
2. Must-Do Projects: Rather than going through major renovations, this year people will continue to complete the projects that need to be done, like repairs to siding or roof leaks. “Have-to” projects instead of “want-to” projects are a trend that is remaining near the top of the list.
3. Warm & Cozy: Warmer colors on all surfaces are coming back. People tend to be moving away from minimalist, white designs or bright colors in favor of cozier, earth tones. The trend, however, is not rustic. Instead, it is a blend of earthiness and modern design. Along with warmer tones in homes are warmer
tones in metallic features—oil rubbed bronze, aged bronze, or distressed hardware is big in 2011. Homeowners want rooms that are more contemporary and calming, but are “still not totally contemporary.”
4. Living Outside: It appears that in 2011 people want to sit outside again and are staying at home more frequently. This means that outdoor living spaces are making a big splash. Many pools are being built and homeowners are looking to bring the inside out.
5. Roomy Rooms: Open floor plans are in, so removing interior walls and opening up the spaces in older houses to modernize them is a big trend among homeowners with older houses. Open floor plans help families be more flexible with the square footage they already have.
6. Work Space Flair: Exposed beams will remain popular, but stainless steel cable and industrial products are on the rise. With so many people working from home, office spaces will take on more of a business or commercial look.
7. Tech-Savvy Homes: In a world ruled by technology, many homeowners are making changes that will improve the workability of their home electronics. Equipment is improving and consumers want every possible gadget they can get their hands on. Ease of use and ways to make all those ugly cords, as well as the T.V. (called the black hole by many female clients) less obvious is a design trend that is coming on strong.
8. Growing Green: Bamboo floors, energy efficient appliances, and energy efficient glass doors and windows will continue to be a big trend in 2011. Though consumers have not bought into the green movement hook-line-and-sinker, it is projected that this market will keep growing in popularity.
9. Planning Ahead: More and more people are turning to universal design and performing expansions to prepare for the future. Many homeowners want to age in place, so their homes need to be accessible when they do grow older. This does not mean installing ramps or elevators, but rather making smaller adjustments like widening hallways and doorways, adding step- in showers and installing extra lighting. This design concept is extremely popular, and it will stick around for a long time.
10. Hiring the Qualified: Consumer diligence is on the rise. People are finally getting the message that it is important to look more closely at the companies they are considering for their remodel project. They are asking the questions we have been telling them to ask for years and checking out qualifications.
With all this information, what do we do next? It is important to 12 MAY 2011 | HOUSTON BUILDER | GREATER HOUSTON BUILDERS ASSOCIATION – BUILDING A BETTER FUTURE
PHOTO LEFT: Warm tones and earthy colors are back in a big way for 2011. Photos by Gryphon Builders.
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