Remodeling projects mirror changes in lifestyleWhile the push at the heart of this shift is definitely the current state of the global economy, smaller factors are at work, too. People are living different lives than they did five or 10 years ago. People want open family areas where everyone can spend time together, and family-friendly houses that allow every room to be used on a regular basis. For many homeowners, the kitchen has become the true heart of the home, and family life emanates around it.Kitchens, master suites and outdoor spaces are still the most renovated spaces. Builders and remodelers around the country often cite these parts of the home as the main priorities for their clients. "Of course, often you start working on a kitchen and the remodel gradually makes its way out to other rooms," Charlie Simmons says. Pent-up demand Many homeowners have been waiting to remodel since the downturn in 2008. "Our clients have been talking about improving their homes for quite some time," says Dave Spetrino of the Plantation Building Corp in Wilmington, North Carolina. "They feel as though they've been patient long enough, and even if the recovery is slow, there's no reason they should continue to delay much needed and well-deserved improvements."
