Latest Home Design Trends Survey reveals homeowner kitchen and bath preferences

Washington, D.C. – April 17, 2018 – Demand for new products and features in kitchens and bathrooms remains strong as the housing market continues to pick up steam, according to the American Institute of Architects’ (AIA) Home Design Trends Survey for the fourth quarter of 2017, which was released today.

The survey detailing kitchen and bath trends has shown that investment in these traditionally important areas of the home has contributed to improving business conditions for residential architects.

“Demand has remained solid for smart home features in the kitchen, which isn’t a surprise as more new systems and products are being introduced at a dizzying pace,” said AIA Chief Economist Kermit Baker, PhD, Hon. AIA. “At the same time, ensuring accessibility throughout these areas and promoting convenience remain priorities for homeowners.”

Other data from last year’s survey revealed the following with any score above 50 being positive:

• Billings: 52.9

• Inquiries for new projects: 60.9

• Regional averages: Midwest (61.9), Northeast (60.8), West (58.4), South (56.4)

Popular  Kitchen Products and Features*        2017      2016      

Outdoor kitchens:                                                  45%      45%      

Integrated with family space:                               44%      46%      

Computer area/recharging  stations:                  35%      42%      

Undercounter appliances:                                     30%      38%      

Larger pantry space:                                              34%      34%      

Drinking water filtration  systems:                       30%      28%      

Induction cooking  appliances:                             26%      25%      

Double island:                                                         25%      20%      

Smart appliances:                                                  25%      32%      

Upper-end appliances:                                          25%      31%      

Wine  refrigeration/storage:                                 23%      32%      

Sensory faucets:                                                     16%      28%      

Adaptability/universal  design:                             18%      27%      

Built-in appliances:                                                18%      25%      

Popular Bathroom Products and Features      2017      2016      

Doorless showers:                                                  56%      65%      

Adaptability/universal design:                              59%      61%      

Stall shower without tub:                                       54%      57%      

Large walk-in showers:                                          63%      54%      

Radiant heated floors:                                            40%      30%      

Water saving toilets:                                                18%      25%      

Upscale Shower:                                                      23%      21%      

Specific  Construction Segments                      2017      2016      

Addition/alterations:                                                61%      54%      

Kitchen and bath  remodeling:                                57%      51%      

Custom/luxury home  market:                                29%      27%      

Move-up home  market:                                           20%      17%      

Townhouse/condo  market:                                      17%      7%      

Second/vacation  home market:                              5%    -10%      

First-time  buyer/affordable home market:           -2%      12%  

* Index score  computed as % of respondents reporting increasing minus those reporting  decreasing popularity; Q4-2017      

“The custom residential market still leans heavily on additions and alterations, as well as kitchen and bath remodels,” Baker concluded.

View the Home Design Trends Survey infographic for more information.

About the AIA Home Design Trends Survey

The AIA Home Design Trend Survey is conducted quarterly with a panel of more than 500 architecture firms that concentrate their practice in the residential sector.  Residential architects are design leaders in shaping how homes function, look, and integrate into communities and this survey helps to identify emerging trends in the housing marketplace.  Business conditions are also monitored on a quarterly basis.  Future surveys will focus on overall home layout and use (June 2018) specialty rooms and systems (September 2018) and community design trends (December 2018).

About the American Institute of Architects (AIA)

Founded in 1857, AIA consistently works to create more valuable, healthy, secure, and sustainable buildings, neighborhoods, and communities. Through more than 200 international, state, and local chapters, AIA advocates for public policies that promote economic vitality and public wellbeing. Members adhere to a code of ethics and conduct to ensure the highest professional standards. AIA provides members with tools and resources to assist them in their careers and business. In addition, the Institute engages civic and government leaders and the public to find solutions to pressing issues facing our communities, institutions, nation, and world.