Retail Observer

AGING IN PLACE FOR PRACTICALITY AND STYLE Everyone wants to be able to live safely, comfortably and independently in their own home. In general, what most older people want is generous daylight and more open plans with more clear floor space for easy maneuvering. In kitchens, designers are favoring storage options within reach and minimizing wall cabinets. For baths, seniors are also looking for a stylish spa-like feel for their showers, in addition to easy accessibility, which translates to doorless zero-clearance entries to showers that are large enough for two-person use, complete with seats, grab bars and multiple/ rain showerheads. For the luxurious mixed with the holistic, a significant number of homeowners are adding steam to their bathroom spaces, along with body sprays, music, heating and chromotherapy. LET THERE BE LIGHT As previously mentioned, structurally connecting kitchens and baths to the great outdoors is the preferred route for most homeowners, but when artificial light is necessary, some very specific trends have emerged in 2023. For instance, chandeliers are decreasing in popularity, in lieu of tasks and accent lighting. In addition to recessed lights and pendants to create ambiance for both kitchens and baths, motion and voice-activated sensors are preferred. For bathrooms, the task lighting is the most desired in everything from vanities to mirrors to showers for makeup and shaving. CLEAN LIVING Since the pandemic, an indelible mark has been made on the minds of homeowners and buyers concerning cleanliness. Besides easy-to-clean materials like quartz, a trend toward technological innovations in sanitization has emerged, with devices that use UV light to disinfect garbage disposals, and dishwashers and other surfaces coated with Microban antimicrobial treatment. Also, don't forget that smart technology plays a large role in the sanitation boom, as touchless appliances, like faucets, are one less surface you have to worry about cleaning. THE BOTTOM LINE Trends come and go, but there are many practical reasons to want to remodel your kitchen and bath. It's an investment that will accrue value on your property and recoup up to 60% of your remodeling cost, not to mention making your home easier to sell and attract higher offers. If you decide to remodel your kitchen or bath, remember that you should make choices that will help you achieve spaces that are comfortable for you and your family, and that maintain or increase value and will be functional for years to come. RO Designer: Gina Bauerle Photo: Tim Gormley Gina Bauerle Tim Gormley

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