May 04, 2009 02:24 PM

KBIS Wrap-up Part 2

By Home Experts Team

Homeowners Incorporate Essential Luxuries into Their Homes

At the National Kitchen and Bath Industry Show this past weekend, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey and Interior Designer Carole Freehauf from This Old House held a session on “Technology and Trends.” Thoughts were shared regarding how the economic strain is impacting homeowners and the smart decisions they are making in response to it.

As homeowners seek solace from the current economic crisis in their homes, they are focusing on incorporating essential luxuries into their spaces, including easy-to-use products and those that offer sustainability, organization and energy efficiencies.

The speakers also shared the following two findings from a recent AIA study.

Homeowners are seeking smart makeovers in their homes including larger pantry space, dedicated recycled centers and renewable materials.
With a focus on better living, there is a decline in unnecessary products like pot fillers, wine refrigerators and warming drawers.

So, what’s next for kitchens and baths? According to these experts, homeowners can expect the kitchens and bathrooms of the future will include smarter products that make living spaces more energy efficient and create optimal organization within a space.