Home remodeling continues to be one of the single biggest investments that Americans are undertaking, with homeowners spending an estimated $130.4 billion in 2003, according to Don Wyatt, owner of DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen by Worldwide in Belfair.

Some top trends for 2004 identified by Wyatt’s franchise in a recent survey:

Kitchens:

• Quartz countertops
• Maple cabinets
• Shaker door styles
• Kitchen islands, primarily with multi levels
• Built in amenities: trash bins, lazy susans, pull out shelves and trays, wine racks, coffee centers, appliance garages and cutting boards
• Satin nickel faucets, hardware with distressed or brushed finish
• Undermount sinks
• Tall, shallow “Profile” refrigerators
• Space for casual entertaining
• Stronger colors: greens, blues, pumpkins with jewel tone accents

Baths:

• Oversized shower heads and hand-held body sprays
• Deeper tubs, bigger showers
• Glazed and painted finishes on cabinets
• Oil-rubbed bronze faucets
• Solid surface and granite countertops
• Linen closets and whirlpool tub panels that match cabinetry
• Universal Design features: grab bars, shower benches and low or no-threshold shower entries
• Heated tile floors, larger tile sizes

   The survey revealed that while kitchens will become a family-friendly gathering space, bathrooms will continue the design trend towards a luxurious personal retreat. Bathrooms will feature spa-like qualities with warm and inviting lighting in an easy to clean space. Kitchens, however, will be “chameleon” rooms that will openly transition to a great room or family room for open conversation, TV viewing and larger get-togethers.

For more information, reach Wyatt at (360) 275-3304.