(ARA) The economic reset is forcing our society to rethink “enough.” U.S. Census Bureau data shows that in 2008, the country saw the first annual decrease in average new-home size since 1994. During the 1990s, the average rose by 21 percent - from 2,050 square feet in 1994 to a peak of 2,507 square feet in 2007 - before slipping to 2,392 square feet in 2008. The 2008 decrease in home size was also the largest annual drop since 1980. Similarly, remodelers report a falloff in the number of consumers asking for bigger kitchens and more opulent baths. Not surprisingly, the aftermarket is also witnessing more homeowners seeking to create more efficient spaces with more storage, less waste, and more flexibility. Style still in demand As builders downsize the American dream home, consumers are saying that compromises on space do not automatically mean giving up conveniences. Currently, 60 percent of new homes have three or more bathrooms. While the size of each may not be as expansive as in years past, that is no reason to compromise on style. & Decorating Make today’s smaller baths live larger and work better Home Improvement In fact, the trends shaping society today - smaller, smarter living spaces, value and efficiency over conspicuous consumption, and the need for a greener lifestyle with a smaller environmental footprint - are having a profound impact on bath-product manufacturers. These trends are also making the job of creating more stylish statements in a smaller bathroom easier than ever. “Our emphasis is on products scaled to the new space reality,” said Gray Uhl, director of design for American Standard Brands. “We look very carefully at bathroom fixture scale to design collections that fit the footprint of today’s homes.” Maximum efficiency has become a critical driver, according to Uhl. “A good example is creating more counter deck space on pedestal lavatories, or more storage space in vanities even with a smaller footprint, such as our Brook Console Table with side drawers that open up. While this trend to efficiency cuts across all styles, it tends to require fixtures, faucets and furniture that take simpler forms and shapes.” Whether your preference is traditional, contemporary, March 17, 2010 THE VILLADOM TIMES I • Page 31 or transitional, creating stylish smaller bathrooms that work is simple, with a little planning. Here are two areas to consider. Storage: Vanities that offer ample storage space within a smaller footprint can hide hair dryers, towels, bath products, and cleaning supplies, creating an uncluttered look to make a space seem larger. Vessel sinks that sit atop a vanity add a dramatic touch to a bath, while maximizing cabinet space and creating deck storage space. If a pedestal lavatory fits your floor plan better, look for models with generous deck space. Don’t forget a toilet with a flat tank top: The top of the toilet tank is valuable bathroom real estate. Lifestyle: As we try to do more in the same number of hours, bathroom rituals necessarily change. Shifting from a bathtub to a shower fits our lifestyle and integrates better into the smaller overall footprint of today’s bath. Multiple showerheads and body sprays provide the same relaxation as soaking in a tub, but in far less time and with significantly less cleanup. Most modern showers also use substantially less water, which appeals to growing ecological awareness. ��������������������� � ������������������������������� HARDSCAPE & MASONRY • Patios & Walls • Driveways • Stone Facing • Full Masonry • Retaining Walls • Stonework • Steps • Computer Design • Pool Decks • Walkways • Fire Pits / BBQs • Drainage Solutions ������������������������������ Boilers Repaired or Replaced in One Day • Oil Tank Abatement • Chimney Liners • Water Heaters • Sewers & Drains • Cast Iron Gas Fired Boilers ����������������������������������������� ������������������ NEW CLIENTS ONLY 15% OFF Hardscape & Masonry Construction www. njhardscapes.com Lic. #13VH02631200 201-847-2552 th Our 20 Year Senior Discounts • N.J. State Lic# 6980 Ulrich_villadom ������������ bath 5x6.pdf 1 2/25/10 2:04 PM C E L E B R A T I N G 62 Y E A R S O F E X C E L L E N C E . ��������������������� �������������������� 3-17-10 pat/janine Cirino2x2(3-17-10) 2x2” C M Y CM MY CY CMY K Your Dream Living Space... The way you want it. Since 1948, Ulrich has worked with customers like you to create the ultimate in custom designed living spaces. With Ulrich you get our commitment to a traditon of innovation in design and excellence in project management. AND you get the Ulrich team —always ready to go the extra distance to meet your needs. Quite simply, we are not happy until you are. � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �� � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �� � � � � � � � � �� � � �� � � � � � � � �� � � � � � 100 Chestnut Street, Ridgewood, New Jersey 07450 201.445.1260 www.ulrichinc.com