WASHINGTON – Outdoor cooking spaces are topping the list of kitchen trends for the second year in a row, according to new survey results from the American Institute of Architects (AIA).
The Home Design Trends Survey for the fourth quarter of 2018—focusing on kitchens and baths—also found that bathroom sizes are increasing.
Other findings show shrinking project backlogs among architecture firms from their peak in the first quarter of 2018.
“In addition to overall slowing in design activity, all major residential sectors reported considerably slower growth or declines,” notes AIA Chief Economist Kermit Baker, PhD, Hon. AIA. “Reporting for homes designed for first time buyers and those designed for second or vacation homes also continued to weaken this quarter.”
Other findings of the report indicate:
- The share of firms reporting an increase in the number of kitchen areas continued to grow this quarter while kitchen sizes continued to stabilize.
- Larger walk-in showers are again reported as a leading feature for bathrooms; topping the list of bathroom trends along with stall showers without tubs.
Residential architecture firm business conditions:
- Billings: 51.7
- Inquiries for new projects: 50.9
- Regional averages: South (59.2), Midwest (54.7), Northeast (48.9), West (43.7)
The AIA Home Design Trends Survey is conducted quarterly with a panel of more than 500 architecture firms that concentrate their practice in the residential sector.
