Growing homeowner concern about utility costs is the driving force behind the demand for more energy efficient products and sustainable designs, according to a recent survey from the American Institute of Architects. “The Home Design Trend Survey” for the second quarter of 2007 focused on systems, technologies and functional rooms in the home.

AIA Chief Economist, Kermit Baker, PhD, Hon. AIA, said “Structural insulation panels, geothermal heating/cooling systems, tankless water heaters and green flooring products, such as bamboo and cork, all are in high consumer demand.”

The poll also revealed that 91 percent of registered voters said they would be willing to pay $5,000 more for a house that would use less energy and protect the Earth.

Other findings from the survey:

• For the third straight year, home offices are the most popular special function room.
• Tankless water heaters are on the rise. Nearly 72 percent of respondents listed it as a desired appliance.
• The market environment for home improvement projects, both for additions and alterations as well as kitchen and bath remodels, is reported as “very healthy,” even though growth is not as strong as it was a year ago.

Full AIA report can be found here: http://www.aia.org/aiarchitect/thisweek07/0907/0907n_econres.cfm