The American Institute of Architects has published its latest quarterly report on residential design. The AIA Home Design Trends Survey for Q1 2023 revealed evolving trends in kitchen and bathroom design, where homeowners have moved toward electric appliances and are making decisions based on long-term value.

33% of architects responding to the survey reported an increase in the number and size of bathrooms in their design proposals. The most desirable bathroom feature from clients was larger walk-in showers which saw a 60% increase in popularity from the previous year.

Other popular features were adaptability/universal design (52%), spa-like design (44%), and more daylight and natural lighting (38%). Popular products, meanwhile, included doorless/no threshold showers (60%), and smart toilets (27%).

In kitchens, where 52% of architects reported an increase in demand for numbers and sizes, the most desirable feature from clients was a butler’s pantry (53%). Other popular features included outdoor kitchens (52%), increases in natural lighting (46%), and a kitchen that was open to the household living space (28%).

The products which grew in popularity included induction cooking appliances (57%), concealed and disguised lighting (36%), and drinking water filtration (33%).

“The design focus on home kitchens and baths continues, but homeowners are being mindful in making sure the upgrades make economic sense in the current economic environment,” said AIA Chief Economist Kermit Baker said in a statement. “The entire residential sector is under pressure, and high borrowing costs and uncertain future home prices are making households more cautious about undertaking new projects.”

The latest AIA update also provides an overview of business conditions through the fourth quarter of 2022. Project billings dipped into negative territory at 45.3 points, while design inquiries for homes showed marginal negative growth at 46.2, while design contracts declined to a score of 46.2. In the AIA’s model, a score of 50 signifies no seasonally-adjusted change from the previous quarter, while a score above or below 50 signifies positive or negative growth.

Firms in all regions of the US reported weakness in billings in Q4, most notably in the Midwest where billings have suffered a sharp decline over the past six months. Meanwhile, all housing sectors reported declines in growth compared to the same quarter in 2021. Construction of all residential types is now in negative growth territory with the exception of custom/luxury homes, where growth was only 1%. Demand for remodeling remains in positive growth, however, albeit at a slower pace than 12 months ago.

The latest survey from the AIA comes one week after the institute released its latest Architecture Billings Index, which saw the demand for design services decline for the fifth consecutive month. Also this month, the institute announced the winners of their 2023 Housing Awards, 2023 Collaborative Achievement Award, and 2023 Young Architects and Associate Award.