HOME IMPROVEMENT TRENDS

A recent survey found that trends in home improvement nationwide are surprisingly similar.
Professional painters report they are painting interiors shades of white, while homeowners are choosing taupe and earth tones for exteriors.
The survey, of general contractors in nine states, (Arizona, California, Colorado, Illinois, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Texas, Virginia and Washington) also found that while tile floors are the most popular, wood laminate flooring is a close second. According to home improvement specialists a move towards natural, practical materials is under way.
In kitchens, tile countertops seem to be giving way to solid materials, laminates or solid plastics, although hard, stone-like solid surfaces are currently the most popular, but tile remains the most popular material for backsplashes.
The current popularity of sunrooms, elaborate bathrooms, large kitchens and exercise rooms suggests that homeowners are investing in their quality of life and treating themselves to some homey luxuries. Don’t forget color when planning these new spaces! A high-energy color like raspberry may work in a workout room whereas lavender may be just the soothing shade for a yoga room.