According to the National Home Builders Association 2014 is stacking up to be a good year for new home construction and remodeling which makes me happy since that is how I make my living. I clearly remember the day I was told that my employer could no longer afford to keep a superintendent for his custom home building business. He probably kept me on his payroll longer than he should have and I am truly grateful to him for that and for all that he taught me in those 7 years. I was scared as you can imagine, but decided that with my technical and trade skills and General Contractor license I could try to make it in this tough economy by picking up any type of work that was available. In order to have more opportunities I learned to do all types of tile and flooring installation and was able to make it financially when many did not. It’s now been several years and Grace Construction, Inc. is a successful small business and we look forward to growth in 2014.
13 Top Remodeling/Building Trends for 2014:
Remodeling:
- Granite is still the favorite countertop but expect to see more Quartz in 2014 – Quartz is nonporous and there is no need to seal and it doesn’t crack or stain
- More homeowners are choosing to mix and match counter tops in the kitchen and you will see quartz counters and marble or granite islands in the same room
- Stainless Steel appliances are still the most requested and that will remain the same
- Limited use of bold colors in the kitchen or throughout the house as far as paint goes but you will see bold accents like in a backsplash or pillows but not on the walls
Design:
- Open Kitchen plans will continue to gain popularity because families want the kitchen to open up to the living spaces to give more room and access
- 2014 is about functionality with improved storage being key – Laundry room layout and storage are critical and most folks want a linen closet in each bathroom
- Homes will be Universally designed which means the design allows for young families and/or those in their 70’s with aging needs
- Energy Savings is important in design and in appliances but green construction does not seem to be as critical
Products:
- Electrical outlets will have USB or Usockets so that you can charge iPads and iPhones or other mobile devices
- Curb-less showers and drains will make showers accessible with a wheelchair – Newer strong and lightweight shower systems are now available to reduce curb-less installation costs
- LED kitchen lights
- One of the highest things on the kitchen wish list is a “Chef” stove in the kitchen…..gold standard is a gas six burner stove
- Hoodless range fans with little noise
