Powder Rooms Grab More Attention
They might be the smallest rooms in many homes, but powder rooms
today are getting more than their share of attention as evidenced
by the growing number of homes being built with a powder room (approximately
84 percent according to research by Moen Incorporated) and the large
percentage of remodeling projects focused around them.
Not only are powder rooms being remodeled and upgraded more often
than most other rooms in the house, but they are also benefiting
from larger investments as a number of manufacturers are creating
high-style products designed exclusively for them.
"Consumers are recognizing that the powder room is a highly visible
part of the home seen by guests more often than nearly any other
room, perhaps with the exception of the kitchen," explained Margie
Rowe of Moen. "In addition, because of its smaller size, it is easier
for the homeowner to make a big statement with a relatively low
budget.
We see consumers becoming more and more creative in their approach
to outfitting the powder room. Even if the rest of the home is done
in a traditional style, homeowners realize it's acceptable to break
the rules and have a little fun.
" More than any other room in the house, the powder room today
provides a unique opportunity for homeowners to experiment with
their sense of style without breaking the bank.
It also provides a means to significantly boost your home's value.
Powder rooms are currently in such high demand that many realtors
confirm the addition of a powder room to a home that formerly had
only one full bath can mean a return of $15,000 to $20,000, depending
on location.
Is it any wonder, then, that Moen research indicates nearly 70
percent of consumers will upgrade their powder room faucets -- a
percentage that is equal to those who are expected to upgrade their
master bath faucets.
Products being used to upgrade powder rooms include:
* Faucets and bathroom accessories
* Vessel sinks and furniture-like vanities
* Open sink bases, pedestal sinks, corner-mount lavatories and in-wall
toilet tanks
* Natural materials, such as glass, stone and wood
* Natural finishes, such as oil-rubbed bronze, brushed nickel and
wrought iron
* Fun fabrics and bright colors
* Sculptural accents, such as specialty lights and mirrors
Regardless of the specific product or style, designers say one
common link is an increasing willingness on the part of consumers
to spend more money than before on products that can help achieve
a sense of style in the powder room.
"The powder room is no longer just about function and picking out
a basic sink and toilet," said Rowe. "Today it can be so much more
with an endless array of new products, designs and styles. You are
only limited by your imagination or that of your designer."
Courtesy of ARA Content
Copyright
©2004-2008 Bathroom
Decorating.net |