Looking To Architects As Bellwhethers of Building Industry Trends

This column from The Washington Post looks at the housing and development trends presented by the American Institute of Architects' Home Design Trends survey.

1 minute read

December 31, 2007, 7:00 AM PST

By Nate Berg

"Because they work at the front end of the development process, architects are bellwethers of the building industry, signaling changing trends in design, the real estate market and the economy. These days, they're giving mixed signals."

"The good news is that 'homeowners are looking for neighborhoods and communities designed to include greater access to public transportation, recreation, commercial and entertainment options.'"

"Architects also report rising demand for infill housing, 'where smaller land parcels closer to urban centers are targeted for development.'"

"These positive trends are not surprising given the escalating energy and transportation costs, worsening traffic congestion and long commuting times experienced by millions of suburbanites."

FULL STORY: Looking for a Clue to the Future? Ask an Architect.

Friday, December 21, 2007 in The Washington Post

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