There has been a trend over the last five years to move from house as long-term residence to a feature-full place to reside for an average of five to seven years. Consumers are more educated about design and their future needs.

With baby boomers retiring in droves, there is a distinct move toward ADA-hospitable features. Doors are wider, formal living rooms give way to kitchen-family room combinations, bathrooms have higher counters with room for wheelchair access. When considering a remodel, it’s important to keep these features in mind.

The kitchen remains the heart of the home with more of a gathering feeling and more upscale features. A central island, lots of counter space, an abundance of task and ambient lighting and a walk-in pantry are all basics in demand. Storage racks and a wine cooler, as well as warming drawers and microwave-convection combinations are also becoming popular. There is a definite move away from oak cabinetry toward ash or maple and variations of distressing or glazing to achieve preferred finishes and countertops continue to be maintenance free. Trends in technology demand hard wiring for kitchen electronics including a computer and built-in television.

When combining congregating and cooking, think about how your family uses the kitchen and family room. Keep future uses and salability in mind. Remember that the line between indoor and outdoor eating and entertaining is blurring with the increase of outdoor kitchens and fireplaces. So when you are ready to remodel, put in some good quality features, but remember that you’ll probably only be there for a few years.

____________

Lisa is a WAHM and decorating consultant in the central Illinois area. Get deco ideas and home décor at Decorating with HGPgal (www.HGPgal.com). Subscribe to our monthly newsletter and check out the DecoForum (http://groups.yahoo.com/group/HGPgal/join) for tips and answers to your questions. http://www.HGPgal.com/HGP.html

Lisa DeClue