A fall home show in Ottawa yielded some interesting trends occurring in the housing market. Check out the captivating trends for 2009 below:
1. Pools
Once considered a liability by some real estate agents — what with the high maintenance and the short summer season — pools are a must-have once again. Now with the option to throw away the chemistry set and opt for salt to control bacteria, viruses and algae, there is no longer the need to labour over the chlorine balance. Just toss in a bag of salt and relax. These days LED lit pools are the glowing centrepiece of a backyard sanctuary, where you can escape from the hectic world that extends beyond your driveway. And it’s hard to find a major renovation without one. Whether it’s a sleek lap design, a cool infinity edge or a whimsical amoeba shape, pools are where you want to be when the temperature spikes.
2. White kitchens
What some may have considered staid and cold in the past, is now considered fresh and sleek. The modern white kitchen has grown up, and now exudes an elegant style. Durable cream or grey-toned marble, granite or quartz is typically used with a light-coloured backsplash for a subtle blend — all contrasted by a rich dark walnut floor.
3. Windows
In a city that is plunged into a deep freeze half the year, home owners want to feel the warmth of the sun streaming through windows.
4. Libraries
Whether you work at home, or just love to be surrounded by modern and classic stories, this room — some designed with sitting areas, book bars, reading nooks and fireplaces — is becoming a major trend. The private library/den is a retreat, where book lovers can read and showcase their rare editions and collectables. Whether the space consists of simple and contemporary built-in shelving or soaring wall-to-wall shelves of exotic woods, the library adds a touch of sophistication to a home
5. Quartz countertops
Move over granite and marble and make room for your cousin, quartz. According to sales representative Peter Hibbert of Marble Unlimited, whose business specializes in selling all three surfaces, quartz is catching on quickly. Hibbert says the big difference between granite and quartz comes down to maintenance. Granite requires the owner to apply a sealer, and if the slab is a lighter colour, you may need to maintain it yearly or it will stain. “The beauty of quartz is you can get into lighter colours and not have to worry about it.” says Hibbert. “There is absolutely no porosity to it, there’s no maintenance. So you don’t ever have to seal it.”
6. Mosaic tile
Much like the craze for cultured stone, ceramic or glass mosaic tile adds texture and a punch of colour to walls, bathrooms, kitchens and pools. With an endless variety of colors, textures and sizes, this feature can inject a unique spark into any room. Because tiles are impenetrable, and not easily breached by liquids, they are ideal for places that get wet often and are easy to clean with a wet cloth.
7. Walk-in pantry
Pantries are a chef’s delight, keeping food, toasters and coffee makers organized and out of the way.
8. Wine racks, coolers, cellars
Whether your budget calls for a wine niche or a full custom cellar, there’s no doubt these trends are hot. Incorporated into kitchen islands, cabinetry, basements, they are a coveted feature for the wine connoisseur. Whether formed with luxurious woods or ornate metal, the key function is to keep wine in an environment free of vibrations, light and temperature variations.
9. Breakfast bar
This feature has become the anchor of the kitchen, where cooks can prep, while family members sits on a stool to watch, do homework, or sip a beverage.
10. Built-in cabinets
Known for saving space, options for built-in furniture runs the gamut, keeping cabinetmakers busy, working with large and independent builders on innovative designs for window seats, cupboards and wine cabinets.
Excerpts Borrowed from Paula McCooey, The Ottawa Citizen Published: Saturday, October 24, 2009
For the full article, please visit the original Ottawa Citizen article.
