While the backlog of work for residential architects continued to shrink from the second quarter of 2009 through the second quarter of this year, their clients continued to show a preference for projects that enhance practical uses of space in a house and improve its energy efficiency performance, according to a recent American Institute of Architects Design Trends Survey.

This edition of the survey, which the AIA conducts quarterly with a panel of more than 500 architectural firms in the residential field, focuses on the second quarter of 2010 and is intended in part to highlight client interest in a variety of services, from home design to remodeling projects that may include the addition of “special function” rooms for media, fitness, pets, hobbies, and entertainment; outside living areas and home offices; or more performance-oriented projects, such as upgrades to increase the operating efficiency of the building. 

In general, remodeling projects have been the main growth category for residential architects. Interest has fallen for most special-function room additions, however, except for outside living areas, mudrooms, and home offices. 

“As the overall economy has slowed in recent years, home offices have become the new home theaters,” said AIA’s chief economist, Kermit Baker. “Homeowners are placing a far greater priority on specialty rooms that get the most use, as well as incorporating outdoor living elements within their lifestyles.”

The other improvements holding client interest, the survey findings show, are designed to improve the energy efficiency of the house. They include the addition of solar power systems, ground-source heat pumps, insulation projects, water-conserving fixtures, and energy management systems. 

“Energy efficiency in particular and environmental stewardship in general is growing in popularity,” Baker wrote in the report. “High on the list, with scores that indicate widespread consumer interest, are energy efficient products and materials such as double- and triple-glazed windows, tankless water heaters, and low-maintenance materials. For these products, an overwhelming majority of respondents reported interest to be increasing, while only a very small minority reported interest to be declining.”

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