More homeowners seek efficiency, home offices

As a result of increased energy costs, more homeowners are seeking energy-efficient management systems and products for their homes.

“Our data indicates that consumers are becoming increasingly aware of the energy-efficient options that are available in the marketplace, and they are requesting that architects incorporate them into the design and remodeling of their homes,” said AIA Chief Economist Kermit Baker, in a news release. “There was a significant jump in the percentage of survey respondents – from 38 to 54 – who indicated that demand for energy management systems has increased over last year.”

Lisa Stacholy, chairwoman of AIA Small Projects Practitioners committee, added, “The best way to determine which methods are going to be the most effective at reducing utility costs is to consult an architect before committing to any home improvement work, so they can evaluate the various aspects and can then chart a course that will result in the best solution and return on investment.”

High gas prices are continuing to drive another trend; for the second consecutive year, home offices are the most popular special-function rooms, according to the survey.

In addition to special rooms, the latest Home Design Trends focuses on systems and technologies in the home.

While billings at residential architecture firms are representative of the slowdown in the overall housing sector, architecture firms are reporting steady backlogs for projects with an average of 5.6 months of work under contract. There is a continued strong demand for remodeling and renovation projects in several categories, according to the survey, particularly in additions and alterations and kitchen and bath renovations.

The Home Design Trends Survey is conducted quarterly with a panel of 500 architecture firms that concentrate on the residential sector. The December survey will examine community design trends, and the February 2007 edition will focus on kitchen and bath trends.

Home Trends by the Numbers

Most Popular Special Function Rooms

Home Office 2006: 49 percent 2005: 31 percent

Media/home theater 2006: 21 percent 2005: 21 percent

Products

Energy-efficient 2006: 68 percent 2005: 66 percent

Energy management 2006: 61 percent 2005: 51 percent

Systems/technologies

Wireless telecom/data 2006: 67 percent 2005: 70 percent

Security 2006: 37 percent 2005: 28 percent

Special Features

Easy-to-use elements 2006: 32 percent 2005: 23 percent

Garages for three or more vehicles 2006: 23 percent 2005: 16 percent

Source: AIA Home Design Trends Survey