Residental Design+Build - April 2011

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Lot drives home’s design

Ravine and foliage inspire a contemporary farmhouse in its urban location

EXCLUSIVE:

2011 Market Trends Report Special feature:

Lifestage needs for Gen B, X, Y Product Trends:

Cool roofs

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Cover Story: Project Showcase

12 Lot drives home’s design Ravine and foliage inspire a contemporary farmhouse in its urban location

2011 Market Trends

16 Cautious optimism for a housing recovery

Survey results indicate custom home designers and builders are hopeful but wary

12

Product Trends

24 Colorful, cool roofs

Product color palettes expand to appeal to homeowner demand for color choice and energy efficiency

Design Trends

30 Lifestage needs for generations B, X, Y

Kitchen design for each age group

Kitchen/Bath education series

32 How ‘foodies’ approach kitchen design

24

Food lovers require different appliances, storage and design

ADVICE, OPINIONS Editor’s Comments. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Kitchen/Bath Spotlight: Tile. . 33

Editorial Director’s Comments. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Product Focus: Garage Doors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Luis Jauregui, AIA, on Design. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Literature Gallery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

John Wagner on Green Homes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Read RD+B on your iPad! rdbmagazine.com/ipad

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PRODUCTS

Product Focus: Brick . . . . . . . . . 35 Advertiser/Editorial Index . . . 37 Finishing Touch: Put a lid on it. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

30 38

on rdbmagazine.com Video Network Design, marketing and more Editor’s Blog Market to the new home buyer Industry News All the news in one place

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35 residential design + build

April 2011

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e d it o r ’ s c o m m e n t s

The importance of design

E

Editorial Director Rob Heselbarth e-mail: rob.heselbarth@cygnusb2b.com EDITOR Maureen Alley e-mail: maureen.alley@cygnusb2b.com Contributing Writers Joe Dellanno, Rob Fanjoy, Jay Grant, Luis Jauregui, AIA, Chuck Ross, Harry Spaulding, John D. Wagner art director Tracy Hegg Production Mgr. Steve Swick Circulation Mgr. Jackie Flack Reader Service Mgr. Rich Hendricks Production Services Rep. Kathleen Weaver Administrative Assistant Heidi Riedl

very April, we print the results of our annual Market Trends Report — a report on the custom home market.

You provide us with the insights, tell us what you’re experiencing and predicting for the market, and we happily print those results in the April issue (page 16). It’s a great tool to get an understanding of the custom home market — not just the housing market in general.

There are many industry reports that give us an idea of how the housing market is doing: housing starts, pending home sales, foreclosures, and more. But they don’t narrow down to the custom home segment — the segment that is near and dear to your hearts. That’s why we implemented and continue to believe in this industry report.

After looking at the results, and discussing them with Kermit Baker from the Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University, it looks like the custom home market is getting its footing back after a “horrendous 2009 and 2010,” as Baker puts it.

One of the many interesting highlights from the results was that the majority of respondents said design skills are what helped them differentiate themselves from competition in 2010.

That’s a great sign and it means more homeowners understand the value of good design.

They understand the value your design brings to their project — something so important to the custom home market.

This value of good design was a huge factor in this month’s cover story about the August Residence (page 12). The design was one of the

biggest challenges in this project — aside from the lot, says J.R. Ruthig, associate AIA, managing designer for Dominick Tringali Architects in Bloomfield Hills, Mich. The house features a contemporary farmhouse design — in an urban setting.

Not only did Ruthig need to design a contemporary home, but he also had to add a farmhouse appeal to it and make it feel like it’s located in the country despite actually being located in an urban environment. In addition, the design had to fit the way the homeowners live. It was a big challenge but it was important to the homeowners therefore it was important to Ruthig and the builder Louis Beaudet, vice president, BRG Custom Homes, Southfield, Mich.

I

n the custom home market, design will always be important. A design that fits your clients’ needs, and appeals to what they want will always win out over anything else. You believe in the value of design, and based on the results of the Market Trends Report, so do your clients. ■

CEO John French CFO Paul Bonaiuto EVP digital Tom Kohn EVP Building & construction Kris Flitcroft VP content Greg Udelhofen VP Marketing Debbie George VP Sales Steve Beyer VP manufacturing Tom Martin VP Audience Development Julie Nachtigal VP technology Eric Kammerzelt SVP Cygnus expo Rob Brice Corporate Production DIRECTOR Brett Apold human resources Ed Wood ©

2011 by Cygnus Business Media, Inc. All rights reserved.

No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any form, including electronically, without written permission from the publisher of Residential Design + Build.

Residential Design + Build (ISSN 1934-7553, print; ISSN 2150-7694, online; USPS 070-080) is published nine times yearly (January, February/March, April, May, June, July/August, September, October, November/December) by Cygnus Business Media, 1233 Janesville Avenue, Fort Atkinson, WI 53538. Periodicals postage paid at Fort Atkinson, WI and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Please send all change of address to Residential Design + Build, P.O. Box 3257, Northbrook, IL 60065-3257. Printed in the USA. Subscription Policy: Individual subscriptions available without charge in the USA to qualified readers. Publisher reserves the right to reject nonqualified subscribers. One-year subscription to nonqualified individuals. U.S. $33; Canada $49; all other countries $71, payable in U.S. funds, drawn on U.S. bank.

By Maureen Alley, editor

Single issues available (prepaid only), $10 each. Canadian GST #231910168. Canada Post PM40063731. Return Undeliverable Canadian Addresses to: Residential Design + Build, Station A, P.O. Box 54, Windsor, ON N9A 6J5. Vol. 76, No. 3.

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Recovery is driven by good design f you want to know what your peers are thinking about conditions within the custom home market, look no further than this issue of Residential Design + Build.

For the fifth straight year, we present our annual Market Trends Report, providing you with insight into what builders and architects are thinking about, and even what’s on homeowners’ minds. Is there hope for this market? What kind of margins are others getting? Where do homeowners cut back when push comes to shove?

We deliver these answers, and more.

Five years ago, this magazine buried its roots deeper into the custom home market by launching the original Market Trends Report, when no other magazine or website in the market was providing this service. The report hinges on the information you provide to us, which we’re happy to gather, process and ultimately deliver within context and properly framed interpretation.

This year, Kermit Baker from the Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University provides some of this context in the article on page 16. Baker provides interpretations of our survey results, which include the following highlights: • 65 percent of builders and architects who completed our survey have a positive outlook on the custom home market in 2011; • Only 15 percent think the 2011 housing market in general will be worse than 2010; • Roughly 50 percent of builders and architects say their firm’s revenue will increase in 2011;

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• Only 8 percent plan on reducing staff levels this year; • 90 percent plan on building at least one home in 2011; • Most respondents don’t expect another major dip in the housing market; • Many respondents are unsure about the ability for green products and services to generate revenue.

O

ne of the most significant findings from our report is that among all survey respondents — architects, builders and owners of design/build firms — design skills, above anything else, are what separate their businesses from the competition. To put it another way, design rules.

Long gone are the days when a “good enough” design will win the business. Homes are smaller (most are between 2,000 and 4,000 sq. ft.) and therefore more must be done with less. This is where you can shine — at the drawing table.

Figure out a way to use outdoor space as an extension of indoor space. Take the equipment that would have been in a dedicated home theater space a few years ago, and integrate it within the great room.

Rely on good design as you weather the housing market’s recovery. It’s what your peers say makes them stand out from their competition, and keep projects on the books. ■

By Rob Heselbarth, editorial director

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Connect with your peers Follow Twitter.com/rdbmagazine

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L uis J a ure g ui , A I A o n d e s i g n

Make residential architects the first stop Builders should collaborate with architects right away to produce a great product

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ecently, I’ve talked a lot about the Custom Residential Architects Network, one of the American Institute of Architects’ most dynamic subcommittees and a progressive platform for residential architects. Having been chair at both the local and national levels, I have seen the best of these worlds and been privy to much dialogue among members.

A recurring topic is how to make our profession relevant and our expertise indispensable to the custom home process. How can we, the residential design experts, become the primary resource and first point of inquiry for prospective clients?

As residential architects, we believe anyone considering building a custom home would inherently benefit from our expertise. So if we are the obvious choice, why are we not their first point of contact?

Let’s analyze the steps an owner goes through when considering building, and why he consults with everyone else before an architect.

At most every price point, consumers almost always prefer to find something already built rather than go through the hassles of custom building. Usually, the typical process: exhaust the market for existing homes; decide to build; look for a lot; design a home; and build a home.

C

onnecting with a Realtor is a logical first step in searching the market for existing homes. Invariably, however, the buyer’s list of wants far exceeds what is available and they must make some big compromises. Even if the location and/or price is acceptable, it is unusual to find an existing home that possesses key architectural intangibles of design, flow and character.

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Those buyers unwilling to compromise will probably look to custom building. Most likely they will start searching for lots using the same Realtor. In my experience, most Realtors do not have the necessary expertise to properly evaluate site conditions and it’s best if they bring in a

paramount architects educate Realtors, builders and interior designers to this concept to best serve the client. Across the country, our peers are meeting, organizing and becoming more professional as a group. We are advertising and getting in front of the public.

Residential architects have a long way to go to be considered the first stop in custom building, but they’re narrowing the distance professional consultant. This is where things get to a pivotal point.

Realtors either don’t know architects are a logical next step, or their referrals are sometimes prompted by financial incentives. This makes it an uneven playing field, with builders ending up with the clients. Instead of playing games, the industry should discourage this practice and insist on clear fiduciary responsibility from all parties.

The residential architect is the logical next step as an agent of the owner because we bring the expertise to evaluate the site conceptually. Also, you can’t custom build without a design.

Even if a builder is introduced first, they will evaluate the builder’s work based on architectural value as well as construction quality and ask to meet the architect. Many clients follow architects’ work and will choose to work with an architect based on their portfolio.

Residential architects have a long way to go to be considered the first stop in custom building, but they’re narrowing the distance. It is

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I

was recently at a custom builders meeting where everyone was discussing how Austin, Texas is becoming more of an architect’s market. At an architect’s gathering, my peers were commenting that builders were beginning to seek them out, wanting to connect.

Some of our builder readers will disagree with me that architects should take the lead.

All things being equal, a team of experts that includes an architect, ideally leading the team, can provide the best product and service. So to the builders I say: Team up with an architect and allow great design to lead to a much better project. ■ Luis Jauregui, AIA, has been a member of the local and national chapters of the American Institute of Architects for more than 20 years.

He is an active leader within the Homebuilders Association of Austin, Texas, serving as president, and as director at the local, state and national homebuilders’ association levels. Read past columns at rdbmagazine.com.

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j o h n d . W a g n er o n g r e e n h o m e s

The new International Energy Conservation Code Government regulation of energy efficiency should be welcomed because only government can implement changes ‘at scale’

T

here’s a great deal of chatter about reducing regulation. Recently, barbs have been thrown specifically at government requirements for CFLs and low-flow toilets. The anti-regulation proponents insist that Americans should make efficiency choices on an individual basis, and if they want to use wasteful practice, well, that’s their right.

But one entirely unique benefit of government regulation is that it can work at scale, at large scale, in fact. For instance, encouraging someone to use CFLs may get some converts who want to save the $40 per year per bulb.

Requiring every home to replace old bulbs with CFLs is meaningful, with implications to our national security and energy independence.

Accordingly, with the power to implement regulation that has the force of law on a national scale, the U.S. Department of Energy established worthy goals to improve the energy efficiency of residential building through the 2012 implementation of the (proposed) International Code Council’s International Energy Conservation Code. The DOE’s immediate goal is 30 percent incremental savings compared to the 2006 IECC.

A

dmirable? You bet. Possible to achieve without regulations that have the force of law? No. That’s why these regulations should be welcomed.

The proposed changes in the IECC have some eye-popping requirements, especially for insulation and new window specs. For example, above-grade wall insulation in Zone 3 (e.g., San Francisco) would move from R-13 to R-20. Achieving this will require additional costs, and a change in wall-framing techniques. A 2x4 stud wall with 3 1/2 in.

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of insulation achieves around R-15 — not quite enough for the new IECC. If you didn’t step up to 2x6 framing, you’d have to beef up your 2x4 walls with XPS rigid foam to meet the new spec, and that takes training and quality control of the seam sealing around the foam. Most builders will likely move to 2x6 stud walls because they can achieve R-20 fairly easily.

Basement wall insulation in Zone 3 would move from no insulation requirement to R-5, and in Zones 5-8 (e.g., Chicago) from R-13 to R-19. Floor insulation in Zones 7 and 8 would move from R-30 to R-38. Ceiling insulation

your energy dollars on heating, the U-factor is the rating that should be considered first.

S

olar Heat Gain Coefficient measures the fraction of solar energy admitted by a window and tells you how well the product blocks heat caused by sunlight. The lower the SHGC, the less solar heat the window transmits into the living space. SHGC is measured on a scale of zero to one; available values typically range from 0.25 to 0.80. In areas where you spend most of your energy dollars on cooling, the SHGC is the rating that should be considered first. With the proposed IECC changes, in Zones 1, 2, and

The proposed changes in the IECC have some eye-popping requirements, especially for insulation and new window specs requirements would move from R-30 to R-38 in Zone 3, and from R-38 to R-49 in Zone 5.

For lighting, you don’t have to use CFLs, but 50 percent of the lighting would have to be as efficient as CFLs. For ducts, sealing leakage limits would be verified by required testing if the ducts pass through unconditioned space.

The proposed IECC would also demand aggressive window standards. In Zone 1 (e.g., Miami), the U-factor would move from U-1.2 to U-0.50. For Zone 4 (e.g., Albuquerque), the U-factor would move from U-0.40 to 0.35. The U-factor expresses the rate of heat loss. The lower the U-factor, the better the window is at insulating. In areas where you spend most of

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3 (e.g., Miami, Houston and San Francisco), the required SHGC would move from 0.40 to 0.30.

There no doubt will be complaints about the added cost of compliance (time, materials, training) and inspections, and how these costs will eventually be passed on to the home buyer.

But honestly, even if costs are passed on to buyers, don’t we all benefit from the regulation? ■ John D. Wagner is an award-winning author of many books and articles about construction, and a frequent contributor to the industry’s leading trade magazines. A sought-after speaker for industry events, he can be contacted at JohnDWagner.com.

Read past columns at rdbmagazine.com.

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COV ER Story: project showcase

Lot drives home’s design Ravine and foliage inspire this contemporary farmhouse in its urban location

By Maureen Alley, editor

O

ne look at the August Residence and you might assume it’s a custom home built into rolling hills in the countryside. In reality, it’s a home built in a very urban location designed to look like it is in the country. Or as J.R. Ruthig, associate AIA, managing designer for Dominick Tringali Architects in Bloomfield Hills, Mich., will tell you, it’s a contemporary farmhouse design. “[The homeowners] wanted something very serene and simple,” Ruthig says. “They wanted to feel like they were living in a notso-densely populated area even though they were in the city.”

The lot is located at the end of a street in an older neighborhood and includes many challenging features, which makes the lot itself the biggest challenge in this project. “The challenge was building a home on a tight lot that went down to a river — 40 ft. from first floor and about 50 ft. from the house. It was like

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a cliff,” says Louis Beaudet, vice president, BRG Custom Homes, Southfield, Mich.

The homeowners wanted the rear of the house to provide views of the ravine and foliage within it. In addition, they didn’t want people to see the house as they drove into the neighborhood. To accomplish this, the house was turned.

“The property is an irregular shape — like a rectangle with an L,” Ruthig says.

The hill required an engineered retaining wall, Beaudet says. “It was a very challenging site but beautiful — all wooded, dropping off to a river, nature and wildlife in the middle of suburbia,” he adds.

New design

The design of the home was a secondary challenge. Successfully creating a contemporary design with traditional features that fit in with neighboring homes was one of Ruthig’s goals.

“It has a farmhouse look with traditional board and batten siding, and country stone,”

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“It has a farmhouse look with traditional board and batten siding, and country stone.”

J.R. Ruthig, associate AIA, managing designer, Dominick Tringali Architects, Bloomfield Hills, Mich.

++Outdoor living ++Exterior ++Architect Dominick Tringali Architects Bloomfield Hills, Mich. dtarchitects.com

++Builder BRG Custom Homes Southfield, Mich. brgcustomhomes.com

Siding: James Hardie Windows: Hurd Windows and Doors Locksets/hardware: Baldwin, Schlage Garage doors: Clopay Insulation: Owens Corning Paint/stain: Benjamin Moore

++Interior

++Project Name: August Residence Location: Bloomfield Hills, Mich.

Size: 4,400 sq. ft.

Decking: Trex Co. Pavers/patio: Unilock Lighting: Progress Lighting

++Kitchen Cabinets: Shiloh Cabinetry Sinks: Kohler Co. Faucets: Kohler Co. Range: GE Monogram Washer/dryer: Whirlpool Appliances

++Bath

Doors: TruStile Doors Flooring: Shaw Floors Fireplaces: Lennox Hearth Products

Cabinets: Shiloh Cabinetry Shower faucets: Kohler Co. Sinks: Kohler Co. Sink faucets: Kohler Co.

Photos: Jim Haefner, James Haefner Photography

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April 2011

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COV ER Story: project showcase

Ruthig says. “We integrated standing seam metal roofing that you see on a farmhouse.

And the transitional part is the black-framed clear-glass windows, and sharp detailing. That gave it the modern edge.”

The home also has a handful of commercial features in it. “We blended commercial storefront windows and doors with conventional residential windows,” Beaudet says. “The front entrance — the entry by the exterior fireplace — has all commercial doors. And the white windows around the house are traditional windows. That was done on purpose.”

One of the coolest aspects of the home is the front outdoor courtyard, according to Ruthig.

“Because the rear of the home was built into the hill, the wife wanted a place for the kids to play so she could watch them from the kitchen window. So there is a play area and entertaining area in front,” he says.

Working partnership

The team at Dominick Tringali Architects is no stranger to BRG Custom Homes. These two companies have worked together on many projects. Both attribute working with the other

to the success of this project.

When asked why Beaudet continues to work on projects with Dominick Tringali Architects, his response was short but spoke volumes about their working relationship: “Because they listen,” he says.

“When you build a custom home, it’s a very collaborative effort between the homeowner, architect and builder,” he adds. “A custom home done in a vacuum is a recipe for disaster.”

All three parties — homeowner, architect and builder — were involved in every meeting. In this case, the homeowner chose BRG

“A custom home done in a vacuum is a recipe for disaster.”

Louis Beaudet, vice president, BRG Custom Homes, Southfield, Mich

Custom Homes as their builder who in turn introduced the homeowner to Dominick Tringali Architects. “We started the design process — sketches and concepts — and the builder was present with the client in the meetings. The builder put together the budget,” Ruthig says. “You don’t always have that.

In this case it was nice because there was a builder and he was in the meetings from day one. Whenever a builder can be involved, it greatly helps [the project].”

Happy client, happy life

One common goal in the custom home market is to make a product that fits clients’ lifestyles and makes them happy. A happy client can be the best marketing tool someone can have; this definitely was an end result of this house.

“The clients send us cards telling us how much they enjoy the house. It’s a rewarding experience to know the vision actually worked out and the client is really happy,” Ruthig says.

“They are the type of client that if I called them to stop by, they would be happy to have us.”

Client relationship management is an important part of Dominick Tringali Architects’  The house was backed up to a ravine to take advantage of the green scenery.

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 Traditional residential windows were mixed with commercial windows to enhance the contemporary farmhouse design.

business operations. Before the start of design, the company conducts about three interviews with the client. A questionnaire helps them determine the lifestyles of new clients. “They start to understand the value. We aren’t just trying to give them a design; we are truly designing how they live, and they appreciate that,” Ruthig says.

Dominick Tringali Architects hosts a fun event when a project moves from design to construction. “We have a reception — a christening. We toast the house and put a copy of the house plans in the concrete mix when the basement is going to be poured,” Ruthig says.

“We like to enhance the experience for them.”

Ultimately, the success of the project falls on the collaboration of the architect, builder and homeowner. Having great clients who were open to new ideas really made it a success, Ruthig says. “Happy clients mean a good project.”

“I wouldn’t change a thing. I think it worked out really well,” Beaudet says. “It’s one of my favorite homes I’ve ever built.” ■

 When in the kitchen, parents can watch their children play in the front courtyard.  The front outdoor courtyard provides a place for entertaining.

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April 2011

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Cautious optimism for housing recovery

Survey results indicate custom home designers and builders are hopeful but wary about the 2011 housing market

By Maureen Alley, editor

R

eading through the responses of this year’s Market Trends Report, it is apparent that respondents are cautiously optimistic for 2011. Many agree that 2009 was the worst year but 2010 fared better. It appears many are hopeful the industry is on an upswing and 2011 will be better than 2010.

Kermit Baker, director of the remodeling futures program for the Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University, echoes this cautiously optimistic outlook. “I think it’s going to be a tough market for 2011, but some people are seeing some improvement from 2010,” he adds.

When asked in the survey if the outlook for 2011 is better than 2010, 40 percent said it will be better whereas 45 percent said it would be the same. “It’s not surprising because 2009 and 2010 were so atrocious,” Baker says.

“A lot of folks who think their revenue is going up are also going to maintain staff levels.

We hear a lot of that; we don’t want another round of layoffs if things get bad so we’ll get by with the staff we have,” Baker says. These people are not going to run out and hire more staff just because their revenue increases 5 to 10 percent, he adds.

While many are optimistic and expect their revenue to increase, many are turning to more remodeling work as the new construction market slowly makes its way back. Actually, more than half of respondents plan to do more remodeling in 2011: 67 percent of architects, 71 percent of builders and 78 percent of design/builders.

“They think [the remodeling] market is getting better and that’s consistent with what we are seeing. It’s encouraging. Remodeling will grow modestly in 2011,” Baker says.

While many are optimistic and expect their revenue to increase, many are turning to more remodeling work … ++Will the 2011 housing market be

better or worse than it was in 2010?

Worse 15%

Guarded business practices

Positive news from the survey results shows the majority of respondents expect their revenue to increase in 2011: 47 percent of architects, 57 percent of builders and 45 percent of design/builders. Comparing these numbers with the results of hiring more office staff, it’s clear that respondents are taking a more conservative approach to the changing economy.

Seventy-six percent of respondents said they will maintain office staff levels this year; only 16 percent plan to hire more staff.

++Will your revenue in 2011 increase, decrease or stay the same?

++What is your outlook for the custom housing market in 2011?

++In 2011 do you expect to:

Excellent 1%

■ Hire more office staff

Good 23%

Poor 37%

8%

■ Maintain office staff level

Fair 39%

76%

++What was your company’s average net profit margin in 2010?

■ ARCHITECTS ■ BUILDERS ■ BOTH

47 45 34 26 19

Increase

28 29

P E R C E N T

57 P E R C E N T

16%

■ Reduce office staff numbers

■ ARCHITECTS ■ BUILDERS ■ BOTH

47

Better 40%

Same 45%

30

34 27

21

19

15

Decrease

27

26

10 11

8 Stay the same

0-5%

6-10%

11-15%

10

16-25% P R O F I T

rdbmagazine.com

8

6

8

26-50%

2

0

2

51-75%

4

0 0

More than 75%

M A R G I N

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April 2011

17

The top four threats to company growth may not be surprising to many: economy, client financing, declining home values and scared home buyers. “These are all inter-related. They are scared because home values are declining and the economy stinks. It’s all circling around a common set of concerns,” Baker adds.

With the elimination of the new home buyer tax credit, and the energy tax credit scaled back, it may not be surprising to some that the majority of respondents don’t know if they will generate more revenue from green

products in 2011. Baker adds that the timing of this question may have changed the results; meaning because the survey was taken at the beginning of the year and before the Middle East/Libya conflict, respondents might have been responding to the energy tax credit being scaled back. However, if asked after the start of the Libya conflict and the increase in gas prices, respondents might have answered differently.

Baker wasn’t surprised that most said efficient HVAC and windows were the two most wanted green products. “The two I hear the most about are HVAC and windows so

++Will your firm do more remodeling in

++Will your company generate

Consumer concerns, demand

2011 than it did in 2010?

■ ARCHITECTS ■ BUILDERS ■ BOTH

more revenue from green design/products in 2011 than it generated in 2010?

33

29

Yes

Don’t know 43%

22

homeowners cut back?

Square footage

22

Finish details Architecture/design complexity

16 11 8

Landscaping Green products/Design Home technology

5 4

Countertops 3 Molding/Millwork 3 Outdoor living 3

78

71

P E R C E N T

67

++When budgets get tight, where do

Yes 27%

Appliances

2

Cabinetry

2

Flooring

2

Wine cellars

2

Decking 1 Elevators 1 Energy efficiency 1

No 30%

Fireplaces 1 Gender-specific space 1

No

HVAC equipment 1

++Which green product/feature is included most often in the homes you

Lighting control 1

design and/or build?

Not applicable 1 33

Efficient HVAC equipment 15

Efficient windows

Roofing 1

8

Tankless water heaters

Security system 1

7

Site orientation

Solar power 1

6

Efficient kitchen appliances Paints/Coatings (low VOCs)

4

Products with recycled content

4

Windows 1 Closet organization 0 Exterior doors 0

3

Natural lighting/Daylighting Other

Plumbing fixtures 1

13

Added/Upgraded insulation

2

Efficient doors

1

Energy management/Monitoring

1

Lighting control

1

Natural shading/Trees

1

Wind/Solar power

1

Garage doors 0 Insulation 0 Interior doors 0 Locks/hardware 0 Siding 0 Structural materials 0

Detached garage 0

Wind power 0

Groundwater capture/Reuse 0

P E R C E N T

P E R C E N T

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Other 1

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++Which of the following threatened your company’s growth in 2010?

Economy in general

15

Clients’ financing difficulties

12

Declining home values

12

Scared home buyers

10

Banks won’t lend to anyone

8

Low appraisals

7

Cash flow

5

Government regulation

5

Cost of materials

4

My firm’s financing difficulties

4

Unsold inventory

4

Buyers remodeling rather than buying new

it makes sense,” he adds. “Those are the ones easier to get the energy tax credit for.”

Slow improvement

This year looks to be one that slowly makes its way back from the ashes of 2009. Many found 2010 to be an improvement from 2009, and it appears they think 2011 will be better than 2010.

However, survey results reveal that custom home designers and builders don’t expect a drastic improvement to happen this year.

“I would say they are generally optimistic.

Overall they think the market will increase this year,” Baker says. “It’s strong on remodeling and reasonably strong in new construction. This audience doesn’t think we are headed toward another dip.” ■

More results online http://bit.ly/2011MarketTrends

++ What was the average square footage of the homes you designed and/or built in 2010?

Less than 2,000 sf

18

2,000 to 2,999 sf

36

3,000 to 3,999 sf

23

4,000 to 4,999 sf

13

5,000 to 5,999 sf 6,000 to 6,999 sf

3

Interest rates 2

5 2

7,000 to 7,999 sf

1

8,000 to 8,999 sf

1

9,000 to 9,999 sf 0

Labor costs 2

More than 10,000 sf

2

My competition 2

P E R C E N T

Big-box stores

1

Design/Build firms

1

House plan books

1

Land price fluctuation

1

Other

Other

1

Home technology

8

Staff retention

1

Windows

8

++Which product or service helped differentiate your business in 2010?

Design skills

32

Green design

13 9

Insulation

Architecture/ 0 Design firms

5

Lighting

Better design software 0 Construction defects 0

4

Appliances

3

Flooring

3

Framing

Labor availability 0

3

Doors

2

Land availability 0

Faucets, sinks, tubs, etc.

2

Luxury production 0

Framing

2

Roofing

2

Siding

2

HVAC

1

Managing growth 0 Material availability 0 Remodeling firms 0

Decking 0 P E R C E N T

P E R C E N T

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April 2011

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p r o d uct t r e n d s

Colorful, cool roofs

Boral Roofing’s line of clay and concrete tile products are listed by the Cool Roof Rating Council and Energy Star.

Boral Roofing

No longer beholden to white, roofing product color palettes expand to appeal to homeowner demand for color choice and energy efficiency

By Maureen Alley, editor

t was clear at the 2011 International Builders’ Show that color is a big trend this year — even in the roofing category. As the industry experiences stricter energy efficiency guidelines and a higher demand from homeowners for “green” products, it’s no surprise that homeowners want both. Residential Design + Build magazine spoke with roofing manufacturers about their color and cool roof product options and where trends are headed. Continue reading as they share their thoughts.

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residential design + build

Industry: “For the past five years or so, several national organizations such as U.S. Green Building Council and Energy Star have pushed to lower the surface temperature of roof decks to increase energy efficiency in America’s buildings. One of the best ways to accomplish this is by starting on the exterior building envelope with cool roofs,” says Mike Vogel, product manager, Boral Roofing. Vogel is also on the technical committee of the Cool Roof Rating Council.

Product offering: “Boral Roofing has an extensive range of vibrant colors and styles of clay and concrete tile listed by the CRRC and Energy Star. We have a vast selection with a Solar Reflectance Index value of 29 or higher. These colors help reduce the urban heat island effect and can contribute to points for USGBC LEED projects,” Vogel says.

Where it is going: “The concrete and clay industry is being driven by USGBC, Energy Star and CRRC working with leaders in the roofing industry to continually develop and write building code for cool roofing tile products, along with the pursuit of innovations such as smog-eating tile technology,” Vogel adds. + For more info circle #18

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CertainTeed Corp.

Industry: “With growing concerns about rising energy costs and increased demand for environmentally friendly products, building professionals need to meet the requests of homeowners who gravitate toward more efficient options such as cool roofing, but don’t want to sacrifice curb appeal by integrating cool roofing technology,” says Maria McDonough-Forde, director of marketing communications, CertainTeed Roofing.

Cool pigment is added to the paint of all roofing products by Custom-Bilt Metals, and are Energy Star rated.

Product offering: “CertainTeed’s newest cool roofing shingles, an expansion of the Solaris collection, Landmark Solaris Platinum is offered in fresh earth-toned color blends and has 40 percent solar reflectivity. The all-new Energy Star-rated Presidential Shake Solaris line-up features 25 percent solar reflectivity and is offered in rich, dark hues such as burnt sienna and weathered wood to replicate the look of authentic, traditional asphalt or wood shake shingles,” McDonough-Forde says.

Where it is going: “Since the original introduction of Landmark Solaris, the demand for cool roofing shingles that boost curb appeal and improve the energy efficiency of a home has skyrocketed. Now, it’s about more than just a robust color palette,” McDonough-Forde says. “Newer shingles, such as Presidential Solaris, replicate the look of authentic, hand-split wood shakes. While aesthetics continue to drive the selection process, performance will always be of critical importance.” + For more info circle #19

CertainTeed Corp.’s Landmark Solaris collection features 40 percent solar reflectivity.

Custom-Bilt Metals Industry: “I have noticed lately that people are starting to catch on [to cool roofs]. We have been promoting designing with darker colors for years. People thought to have a cool roof, you had to have a light color. It really amazes people when you can have dark colors and it can also be a cool roof,” says Joe Chiovare, director of sales and marketing, Custom-Bilt Metals.

Product offering: “Cool pigment is put into the paint [of the products]. Every color has this cool pigment in the paint. We offer black on up the color palette — about 30 colors. And all are listed with Energy Star,” Chiovare says.

Where it is going: “The difficult thing with designing the cool pigments and putting them into colors is making sure these are colors the market wants. The trick will be to have higher solar reflectant value with the same color tone [that the industry and consumers want],” Chiovare adds. + For more info circle #20

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April 2011

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p r o d uct t r e n d s

DaVinci Roofscapes Industry: “A combination of manufacturers and builders [are driving the color/cool roof trend]. The builders, though, are the ones who give the product a home and this is where consumers see it most often. The consumers’ desire for these new products/colors/styles are what adds fuel to turn something new into a trend,” says Kate Smith owner, Sensational Color and national color consultant for DaVinci Roofscapes.

Product offering: “In January we added eight new individual colors creating a palette of 49 colors. We also introduced eight new color blends as a result of research and homeowner requests over the years. DaVinci now offers a total of 28 color blends in our standard offerings.

Cool roof colors are available in our EcoBlend Weathered Gray and EcoBlend Castle Gray cool roof colors,” says Wendy Bruch, marketing manager, DaVinci Roofscapes.

DaVinci Roofscapes offers its EcoBlend Castle Gray to appeal to the cool roof demand.

Where it is going: “Global sustainability, lower maintenance and product longevity will continue to drive developments in the home building industry,” Smith says. “While this isn’t new, it has become mainstream rather than a demand of only the most eco-friendly

folks. Products like those offered by DaVinci fill the consumers’ desire for all three and look great, plus come in a wide variety of colors and color blends.” + For more info circle #21

100

100

95

95

75

75

25

25

5

5

0

0

100

100

95

95

75

75

25

25

5

5

0

0

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Follansbee steel Industry: “As building codes and standards become more stringent, metal roofing becomes an ideal choice for builders and contractors. A roof is often the least energy-efficient part of a building envelope and energy costs are on the rise. A cool, metal roof offers the ability to add a sustainable building element to the home while lowering energy costs,” says Mark Robinson, president and general manager, Follansbee Steel.

Product offering: “KlassicKolors comes in six stock colors with many others as special order. KlassicKolors uses Energy Star-qualified Valspar SR coatings that provide solar reflectance and heat emittance,” Robinson says. “Our KlassicKolors product is considered to be a cool roofing material, and can be specified to deliver energy savings because of its solar reflective paint designed to cut energy costs. A Follansbee Steel roof can help reduce building heat and cooling loads, keeping them cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.”

Follansbee Steel offers its KlassicKolors line of cool roof products.

Where it is going: “We will see growth in the cool roof trend as more and more people adapt to developing environmentally friendly habits and utilizing sustainable materials,” Robinson says. + For more info circle #22

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p r o d uct t r e n d s

The weathered wood is one of four colors in the Timberline cool series from GAF Materials.

Owens Corning Industry: “There is a growing appetite for something new and different. We relate it to generations. Each generation is more adventurous. There is a difference between what my mom and daughter would select,” says Sue Burkett, marketing leader, Owens Corning Roofing and Asphalt. “Since the roof is such a big part of the face of a house, it’s almost like, ‘why wasn’t this a big deal before?’ People want color but they’re not all color experts. You have to show them what works.”

Product offering: Owens Corning Duration Premium Cool Shingles are offered in four colors, of which sunrise, harbor fog and frosted oak are Energy Star-rated. “Our colors are available nationwide,” Burkett says. “Traditionally cool roofs meant white or washed out. In Florida, they like the lighter colors. They know a dark color will retain heat.

In the north, they like the dark colors. So it’s geographic.

We pay attention to color available in our cool line. We are always evaluating the line and if the demand is there, we will do our best to deliver.”

GAF materials Industry: “Consumers in general are more aware of environmental impact. Green is the next big thing and people are more cognizant of Energy Star products. The energy tax credit is another influencer,” says Nkechi Okwumabua, marketing product manager, GAF Materials.

Product offering: “We have four colors that we offer in our Timberline cool series: antique slate, barkwood, weathered wood and white,” Okwumabua says. “Because of advances in granule designs, we have been able to utilize roof granules with dark colors. We do plan to offer more colors — and darken the color.”

Where it is going: “The trend will extend beyond California to across the United States because people are more knowledgeable about green. People are better informed. Because of that, people want functionality but also appearance. People are going to want more color offerings. You will want to increase the color offerings and reach more segments,” Okwumabua says.

Where it is going: “No one thinks this is a passing phase.

It is here to stay and it will get more important. Technology may change. We may be able to use a dark roof and keep it cool. Not everyone wants a subtle color or light color,” Burkett says. “Either the marketplace will accept those [offerings] or technology will change.” + For more info circle #24

The Duration Premium Cool Shingles from Owens Corning is available in four colors.

+ For more info circle #23

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Call for entries!

Enter the Residential Design + Build

2011 Design Excellence Awards, honoring the best and widest variety of custom home design in the market, and get the recognition you deserve.

Application deadline: May 11, 2011 Binder deadline: May 25, 2011 For more information or to enter, visit:

rdbmagazine.com/awards

Benefits to award winners include: • Article in RD+B magazine • Customized award trophy • Industry recognition • Exposure on RD+B website • Press release for local distribution • Advantage in local market • Use of Excellence Awards logo • Access to customized reprints • A nice addition to your company’s resume • Becoming an Excellence Awards alumnus

D E S I GN t r e n d s

Exclusive: The kitchen redefined

Lifestage needs for generations B, X, Y Kitchen design for each age group

By Sarah Reep, ASID, IIDA, CMKBD, CMG, CAPS, and Mark Johnson, FAIA, CKD, AIBD

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A p r i l 2 011

Universal living refers to the unique architectural and design elements necessary to achieve both beautiful and functional living spaces regardless of age or physical abilities.

Based on this study, it’s believed that building and design professionals who have a strong understanding of design solutions to meet clients’ multigenerational needs will be more likely to create kitchens for universal living.

Photo: KraftMaid

B

aby Boomers, Gen X and Gen Y … each generation impacts the way consumer goods are bought and sold, and kitchens are no exception.

The economy has created a “new normal” affecting more than just homeowner bank accounts, regardless of generation. It has changed how they live, their priorities and how they view their homes, including kitchens. Regardless of the generation, homeowners look to get the most out of their investment, which includes a kitchen that looks great and addresses their needs.

Design professionals who understand the needs of each generation are better prepared to deliver kitchens homeowners want and in which they’re willing to invest limited dollars. To understand the cabinetry and countertop products and design elements Baby Boomers, Gen X and Gen Y want or need in their kitchen spaces, Masco Cabinetry, home of the KraftMaid, Merillat, QualityCabinets and DeNova brands, completed its GenShift 2011 study in February 2011. The study incorporates an online survey conducted on behalf of Masco Cabinetry from Feb. 28-March 2, 2011, by Harris Interactive among 1,027 U.S. adult homeowners aged 18 to 65, as well as Nielson-Spectra data.

Survey results reveal that 24 percent of homeowners aged 18 to 65 live in a multigenerational house, and 73 percent indicate their current kitchen is not designed for universal living needs.

 Easy-to-reach and pullout storage options are preferred

by Baby Boomers.

Baby Boomers

Baby Boomers represent the largest single population growth in U.S. history. Born between 1946 and 1964, this group encompasses more than 76 million people.

Baby Boomers are at a lifestage where they are often in charge of their parents’ care, which has allowed them to better plan for their own senior years. In fact, Boomers find aging-inplace to be more desirable than relocation, and according to the study, 63 percent of Baby Boomers plan to stay in their current home in the next five to 10 years. The survey also discovered 75 percent of Boomers don’t feel their current kitchen layout is universally designed for their living needs.

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The following cabinet and countertop design considerations can solve several mobility, accessibility and functionality needs: • Transitioning from a 42-in. bar height table to a 28- or 30-in. table is easier for this generation. And, because Baby Boomers frequently use their kitchens for entertaining, a standard-height table near or connected to an island is an ideal extension of the kitchen.

• Eighty-seven percent of Baby Boomers are interested in a semi-open plan (with few full or half walls) or a completely open floor plan. Wider walkways or paths throughout the kitchen and adjacent rooms allow for easier mobility.

Gen X

Of the three generations, Gen X represents the smallest group and the most skeptical. Born between 1966 and 1978, this is the generation that looks to its friends for advice more than anyone or anything (i.e., the Internet). Unlike their Baby Boomer predecessors, Gen X tends to steer away from a monochromatic style.

This generation is in its busiest years, between taking care of children, and working both at an office and at home. According to the survey, nearly half (49 percent) of Gen X homeowners said they planned to stay in their current home in the next five to 10 years.

Knowing that this generation and their families are always on the go, the following design considerations can ease their fast-paced lifestyle over the long period of time they intend to be in their homes: • On a typical weekday, this demographic spends nearly an hour in their kitchen

Did you know … >>51 percent of homeowners age 18-65

indicated that their ideal kitchen area would be a semi-open plan with a few full or half walls? >>75 percent of Baby Boomer home-

owners, those born between 1946 and 1964, don’t feel their current kitchen layout is designed to meet universal living needs? >>49 percent of Gen X homeowners,

those born between 1966 and 1978, plan to stay in their current home in the next five to 10 years? >>40 percent of Gen Y homeowners,

those born between 1979 and 2002, expect their parents will live with them in the future?

Masco Cabinetry GenShift 2011 Study

•

•

•

•

•

paying bills or doing homework (theirs or assisting their children). Therefore, the importance of multifunctional spaces can’t be understated.

They appreciate a computer near the kitchen, which allows them to continue cooking dinner, answer homework questions, read the latest update from their social media accounts or verify the balance in their checking account.

They welcome a taller, bar-height table.

This allows a family member or friend to pull up a chair and chat, or a kid to grab a quick snack after school and work on the latest school project.

For those without children, the function of the space changes slightly. This group is more focused on friends, cooking and wine clubs, and intimate dinners for two and baking. Typically, an entertainment space is adjacent to the kitchen.

In terms of kitchen extras, the survey found that 68 percent of Gen X homeowners said a place for hiding small appliances was top on their list. Creative storage options are favored among this demographic, which prefers uncluttered spaces.

Thirty-nine percent favored open floor plans for their kitchens. They also preferred peninsula or galley configurations, flexible pantry storage and other options, such as two sinks.

Gen Y

Also known as the Millennials, members of Gen Y were born between 1979 and 2002, and consist of as many as 87 million consumers. In sheer market power, the number of Gen Y births tops their Gen X and Baby Boomer predecessors, setting them up to have more market clout than that of either of the previous two generations.

They’re now entering the market for big-ticket items like homes — many as early as 26 years old.

This is the generation that isn’t likely to wait for a purchase. Gen Y looks to third parties on the Internet for advice and the lowest price for getting what they want now. Raised on positive reinforcement, their parents’ motto tends to be “love the one you produce,” resulting in the self-confidence to go after what they want.

And, they’ll return the love, as the recent survey found that 40 percent of Gen Y homeowners said they expect their parents will live with them in the future.

rdbmagazine.com

Photo: QualityCabinets

• Storage options must be easy to reach and well organized, as do trash and recycle locations, medicine and even pet food needs, without the help of another individual. Pullout storage options are ideal for this demographic.

• Aesthetic needs include cleaner lines, some color and/or texture, but nothing too loud or dramatic.

 Gen X desires flexible storage options and open floor plans in their kitchens.

• In addition to enjoying an open kitchen layout, the Gen Y kitchen may be the most versatile. It needs to meet young child needs, like high chairs and storage options for small, kid-friendly dishes, and adult needs such as an entertainment area.

• Pullout drawers providing easy access to snacks, pet food and small quantities of prepared items are appreciated.

• Forty-five percent of the segment indicated a place for spices is a top-three kitchen extra that is most important in a kitchen layout.

• The aesthetics for this demographic follow a “keep it simple” philosophy. This includes cleaner lines, less detail and easyto-clean surfaces.

Tying It All Together

Clearly, Baby Boomers, Gen X and Gen Y share the same love of multifunctional storage solutions and kitchen spaces that reflect their personal style. However, each has its own needs in the kitchen. Designs for today’s kitchens need to be specific enough to reflect the personal wants and needs of today’s homeowners and flexible enough to accommodate a rapidly changing household demographic. Considering the number of households that include multigenerations, including adult children, aging parents, multigenerational marriages, and children and grandchildren, universal design is important to a universal audience. To view the complete study and other related materials, visit genshiftkitchen.com. ■ Sarah Reep, ASID, IIDA, CMKBD, CMG, CAPS, is director, designer relations and education, and Mark Johnson, FAIA, CKD, AIBD, is director of architect relations and education, for the KraftMaid, Merillat, QualityCabinets and DeNova brands.

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k itc h e n / b a t h e d u c a t i o n s e r i e s

How ‘foodies’ approach kitchen design

The food lover requires different appliances, storage and design than the average homeowner

By Barbara Barton, CMKBD

t is no secret that to design a good kitchen, one should know how to cook. The expanding cultural trend toward healthy eating, exercising and overall well-being has prompted my investigation into how it will affect our homes, kitchens and living in the next decade. After all, sometimes it’s just one product, technology or new idea that spurs us on to an innovative perspective for our designs.

The slow-food movement

The slow-food vision presents an alternative to “… counter fast food and fast life, the disappearance of local food traditions and dwindling interest in the food [people] eat, where it comes from, how it tastes and how our food choices affect the rest of the world,” says Tony Robbins, motivator and speaker. Yet, it is taking off and has even spurned the slow-design movement.

Clients are taking their time to make decisions around kitchen remodels. They are more curious about products and processes, more careful in assessing their routines and more discerning with their wallets for value-laden projects.

The raw-food movement is enjoying fruits and vegetables in raw form, and keeping our bodies in top shape. Shopping at a farmer’s market or organic grocery stores has created a demand for the best food preservation tools in kitchens.

Now we understand why Sub-Zero’s dual refrigeration with NASA-designed air filtration or Viking’s Plasmacluster ion air purifier

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A p r i l 2 011

filtration system or Liebherr’s bio-fresh technology are so important. As designers, remodelers, architects and builders, we can’t just place a refrigerator in a hole while focusing only on looks. Wherever you can find proof of these refrigeration systems, educate yourself quickly, knowing this is the staple of a foodie’s kitchen.

Growing our own

The role of spices seems to be peaking, hence the increasing popularity of retail stores like Penzy’s and Savory Spice Shop. Proper storage of spices, whether it be in jars supplied in a compartmentalized drawer such as Bulthaup’s cabinetry version, or strategically placed away from the cooktop to preserve shelf life, are all options.

My most recent foodie client asked me to provide an herb garden sunken into a cooking island, complete with skylight above it. I haven’t addressed the water drainage yet, but a trough sink may be the solution.

Because kitchens are so open to other living spaces, bringing the outdoors in is natural. Why not a planter along the interior window wall facing a deck that houses the tomato plants, just like in a greenhouse?

The small appliance

Thoughtful kitchen design takes into consideration where the most-used small appliances will be, whether it’s the coffee maker, blender or electric mandolin. Planning for juicers, indoor grills and fancy choppers/dic-

residential design + build

rdbmagazine.com

ers is a common task. The building trade must know about more mechanicals, electrical outlet placements and panel requirements for these additional conveniences as well as whether appliance garages still work.

Food preservation in its simplest form requires proper containers amply supplied and easily procured. The book “Take Control of Your Kitchen,” by Mary Collette Rogers, kitchen coach, from Boulder, Colo., provides information on a well-organized, compact space to prep and cook. Check out her website at everydaygoodeating.com.

The steam oven, steamer and speed oven offer more nutritious and faster cooking. No longer do we have to settle for fast food, just food cooked fast. Careful consideration of the client’s budget and preferences dictate if these products are a candidate here. Plumbing/drainage lines or additional voltage requirements and various lengths may need to be investigated. ■ Barbara Barton, CMKBD, and appliance specialist has shared 30 years of experience with several kitchen and bath dealerships as well as two major appliance distributors. Her current focus as a business consultant, executive coach and educator has been geared to the kitchen and bath, interior design and remodeling industries. Barton has also sold for new home builders in Denver for 12 years, with an understanding of their sales and marketing needs. Contact Barton at bbarton4@comcast.net.

Kitc h e n / b a t h s p o tli g h t : t i l e

Fireclay Tile releases the Claymonde tile collection, which consists of ultrathin ceramic sheets.

The tiles are made from a ceramic rolling process that makes them durable and lightweight at 1/4 in. thick. Available in 12 standard glaze colors, the tiles come in two sizes — 5 3/4 by 35 1/4 in. and 11 11 ⁄16 by 35 1/4 in.

+ For more info circle #26

Dal-Tile Corp. extends its portfolio of wall-tile options with the enhancement of its Terrazzo Atmosphere collection. It is available in stone slabs and tiles, and includes 16 new colors sealed with the company’s ProAdvanced Protection Sealer to ensure quality during shipping. The line features five field sizes from 12 by 12 in. to 96 by 62 in., as well as rectangular and thin-tile offerings available by special order.

Applied Coatings Group announces the Modono Glass tile collection that uses dichroic (color-changing) thin-film technology to manage color. The collection comes in several standard sizes, ranging from 3 by 3 in. to 12 by 28 in. The tiles are offered in four distinct series: opulence, vintage, extreme and organic.

Each series has its own unique patterns, textures and coatings. + For more info circle #30

+ For more info circle #27

Bellavita Tile offers the Botswana Series of glass and slate mosaic tiles designed to evoke the feeling of being in a savannah. The series comes in six color patterns: Chobe earth, Makgadi white, Mashatu gold, Nxai sand, Okavango savannah and Savute night.

The mosaic pattern is fashioned by combining 1- by 1-in., 1- by 2-in. and 2- by 2-in. tiles on a 12- by 12-in. sheet. + For more info circle #31

Additional Resources Ann Sacks launches four tile designs and a complete coordinated trim program to expand its exclusive Impressions Series. The hand-etched ceramic tiles — herringbone, icing, tic tac oh and woodcut (pictured) — are hand-glazed to create unique variances in color, shade and surface texture. They are available in 18 colors and two sizes: 2 by 4 in. and 4 by 4 in. + For more info circle #28

American Marazzi Tile releases the Archaeology Collection of porcelain tiles created with advances in digital print technology to mimic travertine stone.

The tiles come in four color profiles — amber, cream, silver and walnut — and range in size from 6 1/2 by 6 1/2 in. to 12 by 24 in. Three mosaic patterns are also available in a 3- by 3-in. mesh-mounted square, pinwheel pattern with glass insert and 12- by 12-in. strip. + For more info circle #29

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++American Olean: circle #32 ++Bedrosians: circle #33 ++Bellano Tile: circle #34 ++Emser Tile: circle #35 ++Granada Tile: circle #36 ++Hastings Tile & Bath: circle #37 ++Imagine Tile: circle #38 ++Mediterranea USA: circle #39 ++Pera Tile USA: circle #40 ++Stone & Pewter Accents: circle #41

residential design + build

April 2011

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p r o d uct f o cus : g a r a g e d o o r s

Jeld-Wen introduces a new composite window system for its garage doors that features a onepiece woodgrain frame and simulated divided lites. The system optimizes the window size and viewing area, is available with single-pane or dual-glazed insulated tempered glass, and can be painted or stained to match the door’s base color. + For more info circle #43

+ For more info circle #42

+ For more info circle #45

2011-344_2010-344 3/11/11 10:14 AM Page 1

Free Our free catalog is filled with photos and complete details on all of our architectural products: CableRail cable assemblies, DesignRail® railing frames, Trellis systems, StaLok ® rods, and Lightline® door canopies.

For a free copy call

1-800-888-2418.

visit www.feeney9.com

For more info circle #8 a p r i l 2 011

+ For more info circle #44

Clopay’s Canyon Ridge Collection is a high-definition, faux woodgrain cladding that replicates the charm and character of real wood. The 1/2-in. thick material is attached to a polyurethane insulated threelayer steel base door for added strength and energy efficiency, delivering a 19.2 R-value.

The Impression Collection from Overhead Door features a molded woodgrain fiberglass surface that conceals its steel construction. It includes foamed-in-place polyurethane insulation with an R-value of 7.6 to control heat loss and gain.

34

The EverCharge Standby Power System from LiftMaster provides homeowners with a safe, practical and reliable access solution for entering or exiting their garage when the power is out. It supplies power for up to two days. Even after 24 hours of standby time, it will still perform 20 full up-and-down cycles.

residential design + build

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p r o d uct f o cus : b r i c k

Ply Gem Stone’s bricks are nearly half the depth of standard bricks, lightweight and easy to install. They are available in an extensive selection of colors, and in 1-in. or 2-in. thickness. + For more info circle #46

Brick from Pine Hall Brick meets ASTM standards and is offered in a variety of textures and colors. The sandalwood oversize (pictured) from the Vintage Collection features the appearance of authentic tumbled brick. + For more info circle #47 Nichiha offers its Plymouth Brick fiber cement panel product. The prefinished panels are available in a standard size of 18-in. height, 72-in. width and 5 ⁄ 8 in. thick. Crimson is the first color option in this series. + For more info circle #49

Eldorado Stone offers its MediaWall featuring TundraBrick. It is designed to feature a classically shaped profile with slightly squared edges that are chiseled and worn. It is manufactured in approximately 7.875-in. lengths and 2.5-in. heights, and available in four colors: rosewood, riverbed, beachwalk and stonemill. + For more info circle #48

Boral Bricks offers its residential brick products: modular, queen and engineer. The modular product is 7 5 ⁄ 8 -in. long by 2 1/2-in. high; queen is 7 5 ⁄ 8- -in. long by 2 3/4-in. high; and engineer has the same face dimensions as queen but is 3/4-in. thicker through the wall. + For more info circle #50 For more info circle #9 rdbmagazine.com

residential design + build

april 2011

35

Expanded Vivace Series Product Line

L iter a ture g a l l e r y

W

The Vivace Samsung (Quietside Corporation) is proud to introduce their expanded Vivace Series product line to the North American market.

Complementing the successful 12000 Btu/h version are an 18000 and 24000 Btu/h model.

The Vivace is known for combining stunning, high tech looks with world class efficiency and industry leading air purification.

California 888-699-6067 Texas 562-587-7829 Pennsylvania 866-243-6498 sales@quietside.com • www.quietside.com

elcome to our Literature Gallery, a special showcase featuring new and innovative building products.

For more information, simply circle the number of the item on the Reader Service Card.

If you would like to advertise in this special section, please contact Nancy Campoli at 800-547-7377, Ext 6127.

QUIETSIDE CORPORATION For more info circle #10

www.ahchicago.com email: info@ahchicago.com

New Profile:

LedgeCut33

Custom Cabinets Deserve Custom Hardware We manufacture stainless pulls to your specifications

210 North Aberdeen Street . Chicago, Illinois 60607 312/666.6832t . 312/666.6893 f For more info circle #11

Discover This Year’s Kitchen Innovation: Touchless Paper Towel Dispensing.

Stop by our KBIS booth #C4260 this April in Las Vegas for a product demo! This revolutionary appliance is a fit for any kitchen. It’s operation uses new LED BreakingBeam Technology to cut any brand/size of paper towels to any length, regardless of perforation.

Call 866-599-7066 or visit www.cleancutdispenser.com.

Stone. The Foundation for Memorable Spaces. eldoradostone.com / ledgecut33 800.925.1491 For more info circle #13

For more info circle #12

AZEK Building Products Expands AZEK Deck Arbor Collection®

ES_QR_ninthpage_showcase_Mar11.indd 1

Designer Canopy Series The look of real stone without the weight or the cost! You can customize your kitchen to fit your own personal style.

Imperial’s Designer Canopy Package includes: Canopy of your choice and color, Ventilator Insert and Wall Mounting Frame for EASY installation.

For more information and our complete product line, visit our website at: For more info circle #14

www.imperialhoods.com or contact us at: 800-851-4192.

2/15/11 10:38:30 AM

Acacia®, one of five rich colors in the AZEK Deck Arbor Collection.

AZEK Deck has expanded it s popular Arbor Collection with two new colors, for a total of five rich, tropical hardwood looks! Cobre® and Silver Oak™ join existing colors of Acacia®, Morado® and Redland Rose®. With the same low-maintenance, stain and scratch resistance as all AZEK Deck products, Cobre has a warm golden hue, while Silver Oak has the aged look of teak with the rich personality of weathered wood. Their subtle grain patterns allow the colors to come through with a richness and elegance.

1-877-ASK-AZEK (275-2935) www.azek.com

AZEK

For more info circle #15 36

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residential design + build

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a d vertiser i n d e x

Arthur Harris & Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Pella Corp. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

A Cygnus Business Media Publication

AZEK Building Products, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5, 36

Pine Hall Brick. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

SALES OFFICES

Eldorado Stone. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7, 36

Quietside Corp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36, 39

Feeney, Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9, 34

Smart Vent, Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Geberit North America . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Soci . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Imperial Cal Products, Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

SwimEx . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Steve Beyer, VP Sales 3030 Salt Creek Lane, Suite 200 Arlington Heights, IL 60005 (847) 454-2725 • Fax: (866) 420-8581 steve.beyer@cygnusb2b.com John Huff, Publisher 3030 Salt Creek Lane, Suite 200 Arlington Heights, IL 60005

LiteSteel Technologies America, LLC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

(847) 454-2711 • Fax: (866) 577-7397 john.huff@cygnusb2b.com WEST Josh Lentz 5012 B 40th Avenue NE Seattle, WA 98105 Phone: (206) 283-6762 Fax: (206) 428-9114 e-mail: josh.lentz@cygnusb2b.com

e d it o ri a l i n d e x

MIDWEST Mike Mandozzi 3030 W. Salt Creek Lane, Ste. 200 Arlington Heights, IL 60005

American Marazzi Tile. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Follansbee Steel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

American Olean . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

GAF Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Ann Sacks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Granada Tile. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Applied Coatings Group. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Hastings Tile & Bath. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

e-mail: joe.may@cygnusb2b.com

Bedrosians. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Imagine Tile. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Digital Sales

Bellano Tile . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Jeld-Wen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Bellavita Tile. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

LiftMaster. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Boral Bricks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Mediterranea USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Boral Roofing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Nichiha. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

CertainTeed Corp. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Orenco Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Clopay. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Overhead Door. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

E-mail: nancy.campoli@cygnusb2b.com

Custom-Bilt Metals. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Owens Corning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

CIRCULATION & SUBSCRIPTIONS

Dal-Tile Corp.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Pera Tile USA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33

E-mail: circulation@designbuildbusiness.com

DaVinci Roofscapes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Pine Hall Brick. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

List Rental

Eldorado Stone. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35

Ply Gem. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Emser Tile . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Stone & Pewter Accents. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Phone: (847) 454-2715 Fax: (866) 348-4221 e-mail: mike.mandozzi@cygnusb2b.com EAST Joseph F. May 297 Concord Road Marlborough, MA 01752 Phone: (800) 547-7377 x2718 Fax: (866) 671-3250

Tim Steingraber 3030 Salt Creek Lane, Suite 200 Arlington Heights, IL 60005 Phone: (847) 454-2723 Fax: (847) 454-2759 e-mail: tim.steingraber@cygnusb2b.com LITERATURE GALLERIES Nancy Campoli 6 University Plaza, Suite 310 Hackensack, NJ 07601 Phone: (201) 487-7800 x127 Fax: (201) 487-1061

Phone: (920) 563-1761 Fax: (920) 563-1704

Elizabeth Jackson Phone: (847) 492-1350 x18 Fax: (847) 492-0085 E-mail: ejackson@meritdirect.com

Fireclay Tile. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Cygnus reprint services To purchase article reprints please contact The YGS Group at (717) 505-9701 Ext. 128 or e-mail cygnusreprints@theygsgroup.com Website: rdbmagazine.com

rdbmagazine.com

April 2011

37

f i n is h i n g t o u c h

Put a lid on it

A

little more than a year ago, Orenco Systems launched a new solution for wastewater lids that don’t stand out in a client’s yard. The company introduced Landscape Lids with images printed on them so they blend into a yard more than typical green lids. It’s an ideal product for clients who purchase Orenco’s wastewater system and have nice landscaping, says Eric Ball, vice president of product development.

“We traditionally made green lids that somewhat matched the lawn — and brown lids for the Southwest,” Ball says. “We came across a material that looked like it would work for our lids so we could match the landscape better.”

Orenco offers three styles: river rock, mulch and grass. All three feature a photograph of each texture placed directly on the lid. The company recently purchased a new printer and plans to offer custom images moving forward.

The lids are designed only for Orenco’s wastewater products, which are sold nationally.

However, the company hopes to offer more options for other nonproprietary wastewater products with the help of the new printer.

Orenco’s business comes mostly from its wastewater products, but the lids provide the company with

more visibility. “Our target market is customers of our wastewater product,” Ball says.

The company works with engineers or septic system designers when installing one of its wastewater products. The homeowner is also involved in the decision-making process. “Our lid might not come up in the discussion. It might be when they build the system that they say you

 Landscape Lids from Orenco Systems are designed to blend into yards and landscaping.

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have the option for the landscape lid,” Ball says.

“It’s similar to buying a car — picking the color will come after you pick the model.”

Nevertheless, it’s a great option for homeowners who don’t want the wastewater product standing out in their yard. For those interested in more information, visit orenco.com or circle 25. — Maureen Alley ■

For more info circle #16

Residence of Architects Aki Knezevic and Mary Collins, Illinois Architects design four modern, minimalist bathrooms with Geberit® Architects Aki Knezevic and Mary Collins knew that in modernizing their home in Lake Bluff, Illinois, they had to maintain the exterior dimensions of their Cape Cod style home to complement the traditional charm of the community and meet restrictive zoning codes. This meant they had to take advantage of every inch of their home’s internal space – including their four bathrooms.

Geberit’s in-wall tank and toilet carrier system was the perfect answer for all four rooms.

Geberit’s system opened up the space in their small bathrooms to complement the unique architectural highlights − effectively turning them into rooms of elegance and practicality.

Geberit was an integral part of the design as well as a space saving solution.

See how the Geberit concealed tank and carrier system can inspire you. For a free copy of the Geberit Now DVD, our full line digital resource, visit us at www.geberitnow.com or call 866/787-3924.

It’s Technology Enabling Design.

www.geberit.us 866/787-3924

For more info circle #17