By Michael Gruber, President, Building Industry Association of Stark & East Central Ohio
New buyers have a variety of choices when it comes to modern home design. Two areas in the home, kitchens and baths, generally attract the most attention.
While styles, sizes and décor can vary, there are certain key features home buyers want in kitchens and baths.
The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) recently surveyed prospective and recent home buyers and found that the most desired kitchen and bath features provide flexibility and comfort.
Most desired kitchen features
During the pandemic, many individuals spent less time entertaining in the kitchen and more time devoted to actual cooking. With a variety of kitchen gadgets and cooking ingredients, it’s no surprise that double sinks and pantries stood out as “must have” items in the kitchen.
In fact, more than four of every 10 buyers think the double sink is so essential they would be unlikely to buy a home without it.
The survey also revealed buyers’ preferences for more space to accommodate time spent preparing and enjoying meals. The survey results showed that more than 70% of buyers wanted a table space for eating (78%); a central island (77%) and drinking water filtration (76%).
The survey results also revealed that buyers would like both practical and customizable features in a kitchen. More than two-thirds of all buyers said they wanted recessed lighting (69%), a customized backsplash (69%), and pull-out shelves (68%).
Guy Bolon from Bolon’s Custom Kitchens says, “That survey is accurate for both new construction and remodeling. Most of the jobs we’re doing involve at least a little bit of custom or high-end gadgets and technology in common applications.”
Most wanted bathroom features
The four most-wanted bathroom features are all related to the home’s primary bath. At the very top of the list: a linen closet in the primary bath, rated as essential or desirable by 76% of home buyers.
Other features that were among the most desired in the primary bathroom were a shower stall and a tub (74%) and a double vanity (69%).
The shower and tub combination in the primary bath ranked as the most “essential” feature, with more than a third (36%) of buyers stating they would be unlikely to purchase a home without this feature.
“Kitchens and bathrooms are special, personal places in the home,” says Joe Laure of Accent Home Improvement, “so it shouldn’t surprise a builder or remodeler when they encounter a customer with specific requests.”
The BIA has many members involved in kitchen and bath design, construction, and remodeling. Indeed, as I looked through our member listing I was reminded of how many components are actually involved in building kitchens and baths!
Countertops, cabinets, lighting, flooring, plumbing fixtures – the list goes on and on. We have the knowledgeable professionals to help you get it right, the first time.
For information on modern kitchens and baths in new and remodeled homes, contact the BIA at 330-494-5700 or [email protected].