A new quarterly survey conducted by the American Institute of Architects (AIA) found that the number of renovation projects is outpacing new construction projects, especially bathroom and kitchen remodeling ones.
According to the survey, which collected information from 500 residences, it was revealed that the average size of kitchens and bathrooms were increasing in the U.S. after remaining relatively flat in the past few years.
Kermit F. Baker, chief economist at AIA, attributes the increase to a recovering property market. Apparently, all the renovation projects which were delayed or cancelled, have resumed construction on a resurgent housing market. Owners have more confidence in selling homes and renovating the houses before listing them in the market now.
Usually, the bathroom and the kitchen are one of the most expensive areas to renovate. During the recession, these areas were given lesser attention in order to limit home improvement costs. However, now that the conditions are improving, architects are getting more contracts on renovation projects of baths and kitchens.
"More activities are taking place in kitchens, as they are regaining their role as "control center" of the home. While they haven't significantly increased in size, they generally are utilizing more technology. Likewise, bathrooms are getting more attention. Along with kitchens, baths tend to garner a lot of attention for new homebuyers, and are among the first spaces to be upgraded in existing homes," the survey reads.
Business conditions are improving for residential architects. According to the study, billing scores at residential construction firms was around 54.2. Any score above 50 indicates positive revenue growth.
In the wake of renovation projects, some other trends are taking over too. Zillow took a look at the prevalent styles. For bathrooms, the "His and Her" shower areas have become a trend and accessible showers and soaking tubs are also all the rage. For kitchens, "recharging stations", "recycling centers" and using renewable materials are in demand.
Here are some compiled modern kitchen and bath ideas from Zillow.
