Staying in Style in the New Economy
Economic
recession or not, homes are still being remodeled across the country
and in our community. But the remodeling industry and home style
experts have noted a change in how people are approaching those
projects, specifically with more conservative and value-oriented
choices. We've been paying attention to those trends because we
strive to be responsive to the needs of our clients and we want to be
prepared when they ask our advice about remodeling and home
decorating. As you read this list, keep in mind that our clients'
specific and unique wants and desires trump any trend. Consider the
following as observations. They are not intended as
mandates. A few of the themes being reported
include: - People are looking for American made finishes and quality
products that will last longer and reduce energy and resource
consumption. Products that minimize ongoing maintenance and have a
longer life are in great demand. Those options run the gamut from the
choice of exterior finish and roofing to flooring and furniture for
the remodeled space.
- Given that higher-quality and
resource-efficient materials and products usually cost more, consumers
are gravitating toward "minimalist" design schemes that use fewer
pieces and a conservative color palette accented with a few bright,
bold accessories or more traditional
elements.
- We like our technology! We're rewiring homes to
provide greater and more convenient access to satisfy our clients'
high tech appetites. Today's design provides our clients with more
wiring, more cable and multiple outlets to manage their mobile
gadgets.
- Regardless of square footage, we see a call for
greater storage capacity throughout the house, especially older homes.
Modular organizing systems for closets and garages expand the usable
space of those areas without having to make more expensive structural
changes.
- Grey is the new white ... at least according to
some style experts. Grey-stained wood and fabrics represents the "back
to basics" trend of the new economy.
- Though not as opulent or
outfitted as they were a few years back, outdoor areas remain a
popular way to extend usable living
space.
- Remodeling to create home offices is also in demand to
accommodate in-home businesses or telecommuting
trends.
- One thing we're seeing less of ... a home theater, at
least as a dedicated room within a house.
These are trends and not
absolutes. We are here to satisfy the design sensibilities and desires
of each client. Overall, it seems clear that homeowners have altered
their value systems toward more conservative, durable and space-and
resource-efficient products. Our goal is to stay current to maximize
our clients' options and deliver a project that meets the ambitions
and dreams of our unique clientele.
Warm
regards,
Austin Schmitt, John Schmitt, Mark Jackson, and
Elizabeth Mitchel
Kingston Design Remodeling
11515 Suburban Place
Fairfax Station VA 22039
(703) 323-6527 - phone
kingstonbuilders@cox.net
www.kingstonbuilders.com
c.
2006 All
rights reserved.
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