Thursday, February 5, 2009

More from the International Builders' Show

I wrote a week or so ago about trends that surfaced at the builders' show in Las Vegas. Another article that I just read says that "small is in". I've seen this mentioned for a while now, so it may not be the newest of trends. In a recent survey by Better Homes and Gardens magazine, 32% of participants said they expected their new home to be either somewhat or much smaller than the one they currently live in.

According to the BH&G study, top priorities in a new home include price, natural light and family gathering spaces. The magazine's editor concludes that buyers are looking for a home that is "right-sized, organized and economized".

Homeowners want to get organized in their smaller spaces. Storage in entry areas and even more functional use of wall space are in demand. 69% of respondents indicated no-wasted-space design and good storage would take on added importance in their new home.

The surprise in this article (at least for me) is that freezers are enjoying a resurgence of popularity. While overall appliance sales have been down, freezer sales are up. People are taking advantage of bargains and freezing what they won't use right away. I confess I'm still struggling with my perennial New Year's Resolution to cook dinner more often than dining out.

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