remodeling trends for 2009

The National Home Builders’ Economic and Housing Group just issued their remodeling trends for 2009.  First, however, the chart below shows what energy saving projects homeowners completed in 2008:

KITCHEN TRENDS

• lighter wood flooring
• wallpaper is OUT!
• walls with a combination of paint and tile
• lighter cabinets - dark is OUT!
• cabinets not reaching the ceiling - 1′ of space
• solid surface counter tops
• island work area (upper scale homes have island cooking)
• space for stools inside island
• space for dining table in kitchen
• double sinks (stainless steel)
• wine racks in an average home (upscale home has coolers and ice makers)
• under cabinet lighting
• recessed lighting in ceiling
• table space for computer or work area

MASTER BEDROOM AND BATH

• double vanities in master bath(upscale homes have triple vanities in master bath)
• walk-in shower/multiple shower head
• linen closets
• lots of lighting
• separate toilet area with door

LIVING ROOM

• formal living rooms are vanishing from floor plans (however they are still popular in upscale homes)
• recessed lighting
• hardwood floors

BEDROOMS

• carpeting in each bedroom (different colors and different from the hallway)
• organizers in closets
• light and bright colors