Homes Plus
Issue link: https://www.ifoldsflip.com/i/113492
MARCH 2013 HOMES PLUS Trends continued from Page 8 is how they are mixing things," she said. In kitchen colors, green is beginning to make a comeback, as is chrome. "We may also see antique brass start to enter the scene again," she said. Pullout faucets are also gaining in popularity . Granite and quartz are the materials that will continue to be requested for countertops. For backsplashes, Ryan said the use of glass tiles, as well as seamless glass panels, is growing. She also added that induction cooking is beginning to make a strong statement, and the demand for LED lighting will continue to grow. Flooring Steve Wamser of Milwaukee-based ProSource Wholesale Floorcovering said the trend is moving toward hardwood flooring or tile for rec rooms, bedrooms and living rooms. Wamser said flooring is moving away from laminate and vinyl floors: "We have seen our laminate sales shrink five years running," he said. Customers may decide to replace laminate and sheet vinyl floors with an innovative vinyl tile that keeps the benefits of laminate and vinyl without the look. "The tiles don't repeat like vinyl or laminate. They aren't cold feeling like porcelain tile. It has the look of natural stone without the maintenance," Wamser said. With stain resistant grout, even cleaning between the tiles will be low-maintenance. Similarly he expects a vinyl plank prod, uct, which has the appearance of hardwood, to gain in popularity . "A small amount of moisture will not cause cupping and damage this product, unlike a laminate or hardwood," Wamser said. "It's durable, warm, and very attractive without the worry of scratching and denting." Bathrooms Instead of bathtubs, larger walk-in showers with minimum thresholds and new innovations in showerheads will be the trend, said Mark Brick of B&E General Contractors in Glendale. "A new showerhead from Kohler has a wireless speaker in it that you can tie into your cellphone and Bluetooth technology he said. ," Some homeowners may opt for a rain head shower that drops water down directly from the ceiling, coupled with a handheld shower on the wall for adjusting the height and spray for comfort. The trend in shower doors is going to heavy glass with hinges. Other shower conveniences growing in popularity are in-shower seating and more attractive grab bars for safety . Kohler's showerhead with a speaker is only the beginning. Brick believes that sound and video media are finding their place in the bathroom. "Built-in TVs in the mirrors are becoming more noticed," he said. "Shave or prep at the sink and watch the news or your favorite channel." 231009003 $2500.00 FREE DESIGN SERVICES! On Additions, Kitchens, Baths... or any Remodeling Project. Hurry! Limited time offer. Call for details. "Your Someday Is Here." 231046006 9