The latest data from the American Institute of Architects shows a continued increase in a homebuilding trend that began in the throes of the pandemic and has not abated in the face of supply-chain shortages and several countervailing trends in the residential construction market.

According to the AIA’s newly-released Home Design Trends Survey, interest in larger homes has grown for a second consecutive year after remaining largely stagnant for a period of five.

ADUs and micro apartment designs saw slight decreases in demand but remain popular. Other trends, including aging-in-home options for seniors, saw increases as pandemic worries and a dramatic shift in working conditions caused a spike in demand for converted features like finished basements and garage spaces. The Q2 statistics also revealed a large number of blended indoor-outdoor areas being requested as well.  

“The fervor in demand created by homeowners wishing to have the ability to isolate at home has lessened a bit, however, the overall demand has elevated project backlogs to their highest level since the survey began in 2005,” AIA Chief Economist Kermit Baker said in summation of the survey’s findings. “Supply chain issues continue to exacerbate the problem of inflation in the construction industry, which has particularly affected affordable housing options. While residential billings remain healthy, virtually all remodeling and residential construction sectors are seeing slower growth.”

Overall increases in volume and square footage were recorded at 28% and 19% respectively. Business conditions improved as well, as billings, inquiries, and design contracts all obtained an index score above 65 for the second year in a row. 

The survey is conducted quarterly with a panel of more than 300 architecture firms that concentrate their practice in the residential sector. The forthcoming Q3 survey will examine “Home Features” in more detail, while the Q4 report is aimed at “Neighborhood and Community Design.” More information about the Q2 findings can be found here.