Residential architecture firms across the country are reporting improving business conditions, with remodeling activity leading the way followed by some segments of new construction also seeing growth. These findings are from the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Home Design Trends Survey for the third quarter of 2012 that focused on community and neighborhood design.
“In many areas, we are seeing more interest in urban infill locations than in remote exurbs, which is having a pronounced shift in neighborhood design elements,” said AIA Chief Economist, Kermit Baker, PhD, Hon. AIA. “And regardless of city or suburban dwellers, people are asking more from their communities in terms of access to public transit, walkable areas and close proximity to job centers, retail options and open space.”
AIA Home Design Trends Survey highlights
|
Community design elements |
2012 |
2011 |
|
Infill development |
64% |
65% |
|
Access to public transportation |
59% |
47% |
|
Multi-generational housing |
50% |
44% |
|
Higher density development |
50% |
38% |
|
Mixed-use developments |
45% |
37% |
|
Community gardens |
41% |
n/a |
|
Dedicated open space |
40% |
33% |
|
Popular Home Exteriors Features |
2012 |
2011 |
|
Low maintenance exterior materials |
70% |
68% |
|
Front porches |
41% |
40% |
|
Sustainable roofing |
29% |
23% |
|
Windows (number and size) |
24% |
19% |
|
Contemporary design |
23% |
10% |
|
Single story homes |
17% |
24% |
(% respond. report. popularity of feature “increasing” minus % report. “decreasing”; Q3)
Housing market business conditions
AIA Home Design Survey Index for Q3 2012 (any score above 50 is positive)
- Billings: 55
- Inquiries for new projects: 62
Baker noted, “The market for remodeling and alteration projects has been quite strong going back several quarters, but it is encouraging to see positive business conditions for both the move-up and first-time buyer sectors.”
|
Specific construction segments |
2012 |
2011 |
|
Additions / alterations |
58% |
35% |
|
Kitchen and bath remodeling |
51% |
37% |
|
Move-up home market |
8% |
-36% |
|
First-time buyer / affordable home market |
5% |
-37% |
|
Custom / luxury home market |
-0.8% |
-27% |
|
Townhouse / condo market |
-8% |
-35% |
|
Second / vacation home |
-39% |
-61% |
(% of respondents reporting sector “improving” minus % reporting “weakening”; Q3)
