Redefining the Aging-in-Place Trend

BY JAMIE GOLD ON MAR 15, 2015

Ask most kids and they’ll tell you they can’t wait to be older so they can do more. Ask their parents or grandparents and the word “older” is rarely mentioned. Yet, these Boomers and seniors are doing so much more than they ever dreamed at this stage in their lives   . They’re completing marathons, triathlons, mountaineering expeditions, adventure travel, endurance challenges and obstacle course races in exploding numbers.

Along with all of those youthful pursuits come sports injuries, muscle stiffness and a parallel explosion in knee and hip replacements. So while they may be squeamish about discussing “aging-in-place” – with its dreaded “a” word – homeowners in the 50-plus demographic are increasingly interested in the benefits of accessibility. That last mile or fire jump may get the credit. Or it could be their arthritis, activated by overuse. But every survey points to this trend and both designers and manufacturers are paying attention.

Design Side

In the 2015 Kitchen and Bath Style Report, the National Kitchen and Bath Association reported that 57 percent of NKBA designers specified accessible and/or Universal Design features in bathrooms and 56 percent incorporated them into kitchens the prior year.

That doesn’t mean clients like talking about it. Designers have shared in networking groups that many homeowners are still uncomfortable contemplating their aging needs and even “Universal Design” can conjure up images of wheelchairs and institutional fixtures. Some designers have changed the discussion to “inclusive design,” “accessible design” or a new term discussed at a recent seminar dubbed “athlete-in-place design.”

“A majority of respondents anticipate adding features such as shower benches, comfort-height toilets and vanities in baths; and microwave drawers and touch-activated or touch-less kitchen faucets,” the NKBA survey shared, adding that “the demand for easy maintenance spaces and products is also growing.” These features benefit the able-bodied weekend warrior and time-pressed, sandwich-generation Boomer balancing her needs with those of her teens and aging parents as much as they help the traditional aging-in-place client.

A 2014 Home Design Trends Survey from the American Institute of Architects points to a strongly-increased interest in ramps or elevators, on-grade entries, fitness rooms and homes that can accommodate multiple generations. The aging-in-place conversation you have with your next client may focus on their in-laws, rather than themselves. These all aid the homeowner transitioning into retirement and wanting to remain at home, rather than moving into a senior living facility. Studies consistently show that the vast majority of older adults prefer this option.

The fitness room trend is one that kitchen and bath designers are well poised to tap into. Knowledge of ergonomics and clearances supports design of spaces with large, heavily used equipment and storage, flooring and lighting planning to surround it. Cabinet dealers can propose solutions to store a homeowner’s gear and house a television for use while working out. Even the inclusion of large mirrors lends itself to the designer who has been creating successful bath projects for years; some of these fitness rooms will even be part of luxurious master suites, so they can take advantage of adjacent showers and fixtures. As steam showers were showing a trend increase in the NKBA survey, that’s definitely a discussion point for the shower component of a fitness suite.

Age-defying clients who participate in athletics may also be more receptive to the safety conversation of aging-in-place than the average age-denying homeowner. After all, to successfully complete their events, they need to remain safe and uninjured. That mindset is easily transferred to a home space with its accessible add-ons that accommodate this need. According to a Research Institute for Housing America Special Report, 80 percent of Americans in the 55 and older demographic were homeowners and only 31 percent of them have special safety features at home. That presents a tremendous opportunity for manufacturers creating products to meet these growing needs as the population ages and designers seeking the most stylish ways to include them in their projects.

Manufacturer Side

As reported from the recent Design & Construction Week, Kohler, Moen and TOTO were all showing off safety and accessible features with their new lines. This makes it easier for designers who want to create master suites that evoke resort spas, rather than rehab hospital rooms. Brands like Great Grabz, Rohl and Jaclo also serve this need with upscale offerings you wouldn’t hesitate to specify for a luxury project.

The growing availability and popularity of sophisticated cabinetry accessories also aids accessibility. For example, homeowners no longer have to get on their aging knees with a flashlight to find something in the back of a corner cabinet, or bend stiff backs to get into the lower shelf of a pantry. A deep roll-out tray or swing-out unit will make that a problem of the past. These are also profitable up-sells for the designer and cabinet dealer.

Induction cooktops also assist the older homeowner in multiple ways. First, it’s easier to clean than a pro-style gas cooktop, and this can help the client with arthritis, fatigue or vision impairment, as well as the runner wanting to spend his time doing speed drills, not scrubbing burner grates. Second, it doesn’t convey heat when there isn’t a pot or pan sitting on it, so a memory-challenged user who forgets to turn it off will less likely cause a problem. (Humidity-sensing vent fans in the bathroom also help with memory issues.) Third, induction makes it faster to get dinner on the table and every schedule juggler values that convenience.

Convection-steam ovens can also help in this regard, and offer a much healthier cooking option for the busy, athlete-at-home client. They, too, showed up as a growing trend in the NKBA report.

Last Words

By changing the conversation from aging to accessibility or athleticism, you empower your clients to feel comfortable with the best features available for their lives and homes. You can also enhance your profitability with revenue-rich products and new project ideas like elevators and fitness rooms. Consider partnering with specialists in these areas for best results, as you would with a technology consultant for home automation and entertainment.

Jamie Gold, CKD, CAPS is an independent designer in San Diego, the author of New Kitchen Ideas That Work (Taunton Press), and a blogger, design journalist, seminar developer and industry consultant. She is also a Boomer who participates in obstacle course races, triathlons, endurance events and other weekend warrior past-times.

Lakisha Woods Named NAHB Chief Marketing Officer

The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) recently announced the promotion of veteran staff member Lakisha Woods, CAE, to chief marketing officer.

This position will oversee all revenue-generating programs unrelated to NAHB's International Builders' Show exhibit space sales. Such activities will include sponsorship sales and partnerships with national companies. The position will also identify new business opportunities and handle NAHB branding and public image initiatives.

"Lakisha Woods brings a wealth of expertise to this important leadership position," said Jerry Howard, NAHB's CEO. "Increasing non-dues revenue and managing our brand are critical ventures, and I have no doubt Lakisha will excel in these capacities. She inherits an exceptionally talented staff, who are equally committed to serving NAHB and our members."

Woods assumes this position after 10 years as vice president of NAHB's publishing and affinity programs. In this capacity, she and her team developed member benefit programs, created and sold online subscription services and published resources for home builders. Prior to joining NAHB, Woods was the executive director of marketing and e-business for the Associated General Contractors of America.

"NAHB has long been the recognized leader for housing advocacy," said Woods. "I now have the privilege of working with a collaborative and professional team to further the NAHB brand while delivering real value to builders, remodelers and home buyers." 

http://www.kbbonline.com/news-and-features/Lakisha-Woods-Named-NAHB-Chief-Marketing-Officer-6829.shtml

Kohler Gears Up for 2014 Greenbuild Conference and Expo October 27, 2014

Greenbuild sponsor Kohler constructed its booth (#1901) at the Morial Convention Center in New Orleans for the show's opening on Oct. 23. Kohler will use its booth to highlight sustainable products and stewardship projects from the Kohler, Sterling, Kohler Power Systems, Kohler Engines and RADA brands.

Some of the most notable areas within Kohler's space include a scaled-down recreation of Kohler's photovoltaic toilet project with Caltech through the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation; the debut of Environmental Product Declarations for the company's sanitary ware; introduction of the company's U.K.-based RADA brand; new gaseous-fueled power generators; and Kohler Engines' propane-fueled, electronic fuel-injection engine for commercial mowing equipment.

As a platinum sponsor of Greenbuild, Kohler associates Joe Azzarello, sustainability engineer, and Jeff Zeman, environmental engineer, participated in education sessions during the conference. In addition, Kohler kitchen and bath products can be seen by visitors to the Greenbuild LivingHome booth (#1139). The home, developed and built by LivingHomes in partnership with the Make It Right Foundation, will be permanently placed in the Lower 9th Ward in New Orleans following the conclusion of the Greenbuild Expo.

- See more at: http://www.kbbonline.com/kbb/news-and-features/Kohler-Gears-Up-for--6279.shtml#sthash.wx2CnWIB.dpuf

Bazzèo by NYLOFT and ODA Architecture Host “Brilliance in Design”

Bazzèo and ODA, office for design & architecture, have teamed up to create several new kitchen designs to be featured and unveiled in the redesigned NYLOFT showroom in New York. To celebrate the collaboration, the companies will host a culinary evening called “Brilliance in Design.” 

Taking place on October 3, 2013, guests will be able to view the new cabinetry concepts. Bazzèo and ODA representatives will be onsite to talk about their cooperation and their views of design today and how their philosophy reflects the current and future market needs.

“Cooperating with ODA and the imaginative and ingenious minds at ODA brought Bazzèo to the next level in design technology,” said Iko Aviv, founder and head designer of Bazzèo. “Eran Chen, Ryoko Okada (of ODA) and their team have brought cutting-edge architectural ideas to Bazzèo, which sets Bazzèo apart from other cabinetry companies.” 

Pictured: The Marron Glacé kitchen, a previous collaboration between Bazzèo and ODA. 

From Small to Stylish (transformation of small space)

By Erinn Waldo

Downtown apartments often have all of the location but none of the space. Before Plain & Fancy senior designer Brandy Cohen took over, a Chicago couple found themselves cooking in an 11-ft. by 9-ft. kitchen. 

“The kitchen design before didn’t maximize the space and it wasn’t to their aesthetic,” said Cohen. “I wanted to give them a transitional kitchen that would be functional for them and give them as much storage as it possibly could, while having it look beautiful with the rest of the home.”

Prior to the redesign, the modern kitchen boasted high-gloss cabinetry lined with aluminum and stainless steel trim. “The owner’s aesthetic style sat firmly right in the middle of contemporary and traditional,” explained Cohen. “They didn’t like the ultra sleek lines of the modern, and they also didn’t like the ornate detailing that usually comes with traditional styles.” 

Settling for a transitional style, Cohen next tackled the tiny layout by demolishing the adjacent powder room. The kitchen now opens up toward the living area. “There had to be that delicate balance between making it feel like furniture for the rest of the space but still being functional,” said Cohen. “The basic challenge was to give them way more storage than they had but still keep it open to the rest of the space.”

By adding cabinets against the back wall and relocating the appliances to one area, the kitchen has more storage and functionality. An L-shaped bar now faces toward the living area and the windows, opening up the space. “[The bar] makes the room seem a little bit bigger than it actually is,” added Cohen.

Quartzite stone covers the bar and the perimeter countertops. With a hint of green undertones, the dark stone boasts both durability and color. “The clients wanted some green in the countertops, but they didn’t want that to overwhelm it,” explained Cohen. The dark counter is balanced out by a white marble slab backsplash, which showcases a clean white tone with minimal veining. “We were just looking for a white to balance everything out and have a clean look,” said Cohen. 

Contrasting the white backsplash, Cohen chose dark brown-stained walnut wood cabinetry for its warm tone and visible graining. “The style has some detail to it, but it’s not ornate,” said Cohen. “It’s very simplistic without being too sleek and high gloss.” White glass upper cabinets complement the traditional wood and open up the space, adding both simplicity and lightness to the rest of the kitchen. 

“The main challenge was just trying to get the maximum amount of storage without having the cabinets overwhelm you,” said Cohen. “The white glass cabinets really did help create that balance we were looking for.” 

Redefining the Kitchen’s Focal Point

BY ELLEN CHEEVER 

Most kitchen designers are well-versed in the elements and principles of design and how to apply these aesthetic guidelines when creating a classic kitchen. For this story, we’ll define “classic” as a kitchen that is partially or completely separated from adjacent living spaces.

When planning such a space, designers pinpoint one area of the kitchen and then organize the details of the space to highlight this area.

Mantel hoods or elegant metal sculptural hoods are great focal points in such spaces. Using decorative ceramic or porcelain tile backsplashes coordinating with some type of geometric pattern below or around the hood area is another great way to create a sense of visual excitement and pull the viewer’s eyes toward the highlighted cooking area.

Great Room Focal Point

A different approach should be taken for a kitchen that is part of a multipurpose living area. In these open-plan living environments, the focal point may be the view outside the space, or an adjacent art-filled living area. In these cases, the kitchen needs to be visually interesting, but a space created to play a “supporting role” in the overall area.

In addition to changing how a focal point is identified, designers may find it useful to combine materials, select certain finishes or link different work centers together so they appear to be large or even over-scaled blocks of the kitchen work spaces. This approach to managing space is visually effective for living/cooking/dining communal spaces.

Ventilation equipment can also support this new approach to integrating the kitchen into a grander living area. Interesting new ventilation equipment innovations offer designers functional ways to make the ventilation system “almost disappear.”

One new exhaust engineering system, called “perimetric ventilation,” pulls airborne vapors, steam and heat through small openings along the perimeter (hence the name “perimetric”) of the ventilation system. This system does not require a large canopy holding area, which is an integral part of more traditional hoods.

In addition to this new ventilation system itself, re-engineered downdraft ventilation systems integrated into the cooktop, or downdraft telescoping ventilation systems, have been introduced. There is a renewed demand for such equipment because it can provide effective ventilation without having any wall- or ceiling-mounted overhead appliances required.

Principles of Design 101

When redefining a kitchen’s focal point, a quick review of the elements and principles of design is worthwhile. The NKBA Professional Resource Library volume entitled “Design Principles: Color – Form – Style” has an entire chapter discussing the elements of design. Using the information here, designers can create large room kitchen layouts that focus on the concept of combining lines into various shapes, and by defining space by the forms that are created within a room.

Consider these tips for working with shapes:

The shape of an object has a dramatic impact on the sense of fluidity within the room.

Survey Reveals Kitchen Features In Greatest Demand

A new report from RICKI – the Research Institute for Cooking and Kitchen Intelligence – identifies key kitchen and bath trends and future remodeling activities as seen by kitchen and bath designers and dealers. Based on a comprehensive survey, the 39-page report addresses topics inclulding:

>Kitchen Remodeling Trends

>Kitchen Budgets in Next 12 Months

>Consideration of Environmentally-Friendly Kitchen Products

>Key Growth Segments for Kitchens

>Kitchen Features/Amenities in Greatest Demand

>Bath Remodeling Trends

>Bath Budgets in Next 12 Months

>Bath Remodels Involving Change in Footprint: Current & Future

>Bath Style Preferences in Coming Year

Deadline Extended for the 2014 NKBA Design Competition

The deadline to submit your best projects to be considered for the 2014 National Kitchen & Bath Association’s Design Competition has been extended to Sept. 10, 2013. 

Projects need to have been completed within the last year and should be accompanied by well-composed photos, a design statement, elevations and a floor plan to scale, as well as a completed entry packet, which is available online at NKBA.org. Submissions are $75 per entry and must be postmarked by Sept. 4, 2013. 

Six room categories and ten specialty awards will be recognized through national media attention, cash prizes and awards presented at KBIS 2014 in Las Vegas.

Residential Construction and Remodeling Expo Launches in 2014

NürnbergMesse North America has announced the launch of the Residential Construction and Remodeling Expo (RCRE), to be held October 7-9, 2014, in Atlanta. The trade show will serve the horizontal product offerings of suppliers wanting to reach home builders, architects, designers and remodelers on the east coast of the U.S. “We are bringing together the very best talent in all areas of show management, residential building, remodeling and education serving this industry,” said Dirk Ebener, CEO, NürnbergMesse North America. “This team has significant experience in every aspect of the residential construction and remodeling market. Our supplier and buyer advisory boards will be announced in the next few weeks, as will be our major sponsors and media partners.” The event will be held at the Georgia World Congress Center with support from manufacturers, distributors and retailers. Frank Poe, executive director of the Georgia World Congress Center said, “Atlanta is the business capital of the Southeast and is home to many Fortune 500 Companies who serve this industry, such as Home Depot, Georgia Pacific, UPS, Shaw Carpets and many more. RCRE has the full support and endorsement of the GWCC and the entire business community is looking forward to hosting this event.”

LG Products Selected For Proud Green Home Project

LG Electronics USA is playing a key role in the Proud Green Home project that features techniques, products and design to create a sustainable home for the future. The project, a design-build collaboration located in the sustainable community of Serenbe, Ga., is sponsored by LG Electronics and other partners focused on sustainability. Luis Imery, founder of The Imery Group and designer/builder of Proud Green Home, is making Serenbe the home of their net zero project. According to Imery, the Proud Green Home at Serenbe required the most energy-efficient systems to make the net zero goal a reality. Starting with heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC), LG's new Multi-V Mini ductless system ensures minimum energy consumption but maximum outputs for comfort.  "Building a net zero home is more than sustainable products; it takes a collection of like-minded companies with a goal of energy efficiency to bring all the right products together," said Imery. "The LG HVAC system is the perfect foundation for this project as much of a home's energy usage can be attributed to the heating and cooling. The LG system maximizes occupant comfort while providing the control to make it as energy efficient as possible." Energy-efficient appliances and electronics from LG Electronics complement the company’s Mono X solar panels and HVAC system in the project. LG appliances include the Energy Star-rated, large-capacity, three-door French Door refrigerator, a steam dishwasher, a built-in double wall oven, a professional-grade 36-in. gas cooktop and a countertop microwave.For the laundry room LG's 4.0-cu.-ft., ultra-large-capacity steam washer with the companion clothes dryer and a 7.3 cu.-ft. ultra-large-capacity model were specified. The Proud Green Home at Serenbe is opening this month, and there are plans to monitor the usage of the home once the family moves in, providing the developers with information on the project’s efficiency. This data will impact future building projects that aim for increased sustainability as the focus on net zero homes continues to grow.