A new year brings a clean slate <\/span>and a forecast for the coming year. What new ideas will take shape? What national trends will come to the Iowa market? <\/p>\n The home-building industry in central Iowa is strong, but how will it fare during 2018? What new ideas will make an impact on the local scene?<\/p>\n For answers and views on what\u2019s ahead, we looked to area builders, landscape specialists, and, yes, even a banker to see how they perceive Iowa\u2019s future. Our experts see the national trends before those trends hit locally, and they know the products and the techniques to help them lead the way.<\/p>\n Bring on the new year! <\/p>\n \u201cI predict that the more-contemporary designs in homes will continue. I also feel the trend to larger outdoor projects\u2014fire pits and built-in barbecues\u2014will remain strong and expand. And to emphasize that outdoor feel, homeowners will want large, 12-foot-wide sliding doors with more panels. They open up the interior of the home nicely to the outside.<\/p>\n \u201cAs for building areas, Adel is great. There are large lots, and much of the ground has character. Bottom line, every place around the metro is strong, from Adel to Altoona and from Ankeny to Norwalk.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWe\u2019re expecting another strong year in kitchen and bath remodeling, similar to 2017. A lot of homeowners either opted to stay in their home during the downturn or bought an older home that was more affordable. In both of those cases, remodeling and updating often come out of necessity.\u201d<\/p>\n He says plumbing manufacturers have also begun offering new options that make it possible to install the popular large-format tiles in the shower without compromising drainage requirements. \u201cOne thing that\u2019s been great over the past couple of years is the way manufacturers are adjusting to changes in the market. It used to be you could only get fixtures in very contemporary or very traditional styles. But most homeowners prefer a more transitional style, and manufacturers are offering a lot more in that category now.\u201d<\/p>\n He believes many of the trends that will continue in 2018 are tied to that desire for a transitional style and for a look that isn\u2019t dated. \u201cLarge-format tiles and walk-in and walk-behind showers are popular in baths. For kitchens it seems to be painted cabinetry, whether it\u2019s the whole kitchen or an accent on the island. Grays and neutrals are still the most popular, and the variety of options makes this a good bet no matter what the homeowner\u2019s taste and style.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIn a word, the trend is \u2018more.\u2019 People are wanting more fully featured spaces, with \u2018combination spaces\u2019\u2014covered and uncovered areas, spaces above ground (deck), and spaces at ground level (patios).<\/p>\n \u201cPeople are wanting more functionality and ambiance. Heating elements (fireplaces, fire pits, and heating systems incorporated) are popular, as are TVs in the outdoor space. Lighting is, too; most of our porches get recessed and\/or fan lights in the ceilings, along with low-voltage lighting systems integrated. <\/p>\n \u201cFor materials, stone is becoming a regular component. Deck and porch support columns are often finished out with stone, as are fireplaces, fire pits, and outdoor kitchens. Patio surfaces can be stone. But more often, clients are wanting a stone look with pavers and stamped concrete. Also, I don\u2019t even consider low-maintenance, wood-alternative decking a trend anymore; it\u2019s nearly the standard.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cInterest rates are holding steady, and we hope that continues for home buyers at least through the first quarter of 2018. The good news is there is loosening of some of the mortgage guidelines, which will make the operation more normal or less cumbersome for those in middle to lower income brackets.<\/p>\n \u201cThere are more down payment assistance programs to help people in purchasing a home right now, which is great. It\u2019s a trickle-down program, of course. We need people to sell their homes so that first-time home buyers can make a purchase. Then those selling can purchase a more expensive home from the builders.\u201d<\/p>\n Like most, Walker is optimistic about the outlook for 2018. \u201cI think 2018 will be much like 2017\u2014a good, steady year.\u201d<\/hp><\/p>\n Beisser works with builders and remodelers both, and the company has had a busy 2017 across the board. Walker says he anticipates both sides of the construction market will be strong in the coming year as well. However, he does see a changing trend in the remodeling side. \u201cI see a good number of people, even people of retirement ages, improving and remodeling where they are, not selling and downsizing.\u201d<\/p>\n Whether it\u2019s because of a decision to avoid taking on a new mortgage or just satisfaction with their location, more homeowners seem to be looking for ways to make their current home meet their long-term needs. Along with that trend, Walker says there seems to be a slight change in architectural style ahead as well. <\/p>\n \u201cI predict that vertical concrete will be popular in decorative plaster. We did two fireplaces in the home show using that technique. It mimics cast concrete and has a modern look to it. The product we use is called SureCrete, which is a durable concrete, but it has only a 1\u20448- to \u00bc-inch thickness, so it\u2019s easy to work with. For creating a new look in a remodeling project to use in new construction, we\u2019re pleased with how it works and looks.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWith the mild weather we\u2019ve been having, we\u2019ve got some great momentum going into 2018. Things are typically slow over the winter, but we\u2019ve got builders still getting foundations in even in December.\u201d<\/p>\n He says that although multifamily housing has remained strong, that may begin to slow during 2018. \u201cMore builders and developers are beginning to focus on entry-level, single-family homes, which has been a need for a while.\u201d<\/p>\n In addition to consistent growth in Ankeny and Waukee, Thompson anticipates Bondurant and Altoona to be strong markets over the next year. \u201cAdel has been impressive, too, and even with tax abatements winding down, that market should remain strong. It\u2019s a great community with a lot to offer.\u201d<\/p>\n Thompson adds that, as a supplier, Gilcrest\/Jewett makes an effort to pay attention to the construction trends nationally, and the Des Moines area continues to be a bright spot.<\/p>\n \u201cIf there is an issue we\u2019re watching, it\u2019s the availability of materials. The national construction market is good, which\u2014with the nature of supply and demand\u2014means everyone around the country is going to be looking for the same materials we are. But a high demand is a good problem to have.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSo many homeowners are influenced by what they see on Home and Garden Television (HGTV), so we are seeing lots of interest in transitional and more-modern design in this market. They are replacing some of the more traditional style and details. In addition, the clean-lined farmhouse look is becoming stronger, too.<\/p>\n \u201cIn terms of development, our work on custom and spec homes now is west and south of the metro.\u201d <\/p>\n \u201cWe\u2019re looking forward to another positive year in 2018. The metro is growing; interest rates are rising slightly, but they\u2019re still historically low. So we expect the market to remain strong.\u201d<\/p>\n Inventory challenges remain, especially at those entry-level price points, but he expects builders and developers to focus more on that segment of the market in the year ahead. \u201cIn established communities and the fastest growing suburbs, entry-level homes have been very difficult to come by in the past several years. Because of that, first-time buyers have been chasing those price points farther out from the metro. Communities like Bondurant, Van Meter, Norwalk, Carlisle, Indianola\u2014they\u2019re all still well within commuting distance, but homes and lots are more reasonably priced for the first-time buyer.\u201d<\/p>\n As commuters spread out beyond the closest suburbs, he says officials will need to continue to invest in infrastructure, as was done with the Highway 5 bypass and other heavily traveled routes around Des Moines. \u201cAs the metro marches toward a million residents, the pressure on existing infrastructure grows. To keep those attractive commute times that draw families to relocate here, we\u2019re going to have to address the areas that are becoming more congested.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThere\u2019s a definite leaning to a more modern, transitional look in home building. People like the clean lines, both inside and outside the home. For that look, we\u2019re doing more cable and stainless-steel rods for railings for interior and exterior stairways. It\u2019s a nice, fresh look, as are more-horizontal gas fireplaces. They fit the style nicely.<\/p>\n \u201cAs for development, Ankeny still is expanding, and so is the direction to Adel. Lots may seem higher that direction, but so are the amenities.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cConsumers seem confident and excited about improving their homes and enhancing their home lives,\u201d says Kaufman, \u201cso we\u2019re very positive about the year ahead.\u201d<\/p>\n Kaufman says that though he anticipates growth in both remodeling and new construction, the two markets are independent in a lot of ways, so growth in one doesn\u2019t always result in growth in the other.<\/p>\n \u201cI don\u2019t think there is much of a link between remodeling and new construction,\u201d he explains. \u201cConsumer confidence has a similar effect on both industries, so they are linked in that way, but people remodel or buy because of different needs.\u201d<\/p>\n Kaufman sees two areas in which business owners should be planning ahead in 2018.<\/p>\n \u201cThe industry is still experiencing a severe shortage in the workforce,\u201d he says. \u201cThe message that we have great careers to offer is getting louder, but it will still take time for the skills gap to narrow.\u201d<\/p>\n Kaufman also says the strong market is an opportunity to lay the foundation for the future and not be over eager for quick growth.<\/p>\n \u201cWe need to use this opportunity to build reserves and invest in our people and systems. This provides the best opportunity to sustain any bumps in the road ahead.\u201d<\/p>\n From Jenna:<\/strong> \u201cWe have continued to see modern homes gain in popularity. More and more buyers are finishing the interiors of their homes with fewer trim details, more tiled fireplaces, and less carpet. On the exteriors, we\u2019re seeing sleeker lines, windows without grilles, garage door panels with a frosted vertical window stack, and an increase in cedar accents. About 80 percent of our buyers have opted for the covered deck, making that our most-added option this year. We are incorporating black fixtures, giving homes a more industrial look, along with keeping brass in the mix. From the development standpoint, West Des Moines and Ankeny continue to be our strongest markets; however, we expect our smaller-market developments to take off in the spring in Polk City and Elkhart because a smaller school system appeals to many buyers.\u201d<\/p>\n From April: <\/strong>\u201cNatural wood and the cement look are also really popular now. Natural- wood surfaces will continue strong in 2018. No matter what the tone, these natural finishes are being featured in furniture, cabinets, mantels, and decorative accents around the home. Also, cement-look products are everywhere, including quartz counters, entire fireplaces, tile flooring, and even lighting fixtures.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAt Moehl Millwork, 2017 was a gangbuster year, and we\u2019re moving into 2018 with that same momentum. We\u2019re very busy with new construction as well as high-end remodels.\u201d<\/p>\n She anticipates one trend that has been strong for some time will continue. \u201cWhether it\u2019s a $200,000 home or a multimillion-dollar home, stone countertops are still the number one choice. There are so many stone styles to choose from and some new colors that we haven\u2019t seen before in countertops.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWe\u2019re constantly looking at new colors and cabinet door styles. The trick is trying to figure out what trend is here to stay and which is a temporary fad. Trends come and go, but a homeowner has to love their choice if they\u2019re going to be happy with the finished product.<\/p>\n \u201cWe have to be flexible and willing to go with the customer\u2019s wants and needs. If we aren\u2019t, the consumer will go elsewhere, and we\u2019ll be left behind. Flexibility and listening are key.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m optimistic. There seem to be a lot of positive signs in the business world in general, and that gives us confidence for the construction industry, too. Even this time of year, when things are typically slow, business is steady for builders.\u201d<\/p>\n Like many local professionals, he sees the new-construction market improving for first-time and entry-level buyers. Inventory in this segment has been a concern for several years. And he believes 2018 may see a turnaround. \u201cA number of factors that have played into the situation. But between the demand for smaller, entry-level homes and a bit of adjustment to some development issues, I think we may finally see this demand start to be met.\u201d<\/p>\n He says the movement toward more consistent codes is a positive as well. That consistency makes it easier for builders and developers to work in multiple communities. He also foresees a continued trend toward more energy-efficient homes. \u201cSmart home design is growing in popularity, and that\u2019s a fantastic feature. We\u2019re also able to partner with HVAC contractors and builders to design the structure around the system they\u2019re installing so that it\u2019s as efficient as possible. Changes in technology make this sort of design easier and offer significant improvements for homeowners.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cPolished concrete is a strong prediction for the future. We have been using it in basements because of its nice look and low maintenance. There are some choices in the look, from a light sand exposure to a spattering of aggregate in the concrete floor for an aged surface, plus a larger amount of aggregate in the concrete floor for a highly texture look. <\/p>\n Depending on the look you want, you can have a pleasing low-gloss surface, a moderate level of reflectivity, or a very high level with an almost mirror surface. There are numerous color choices, too, such as soft gray, leather, Aztec red, rustic bark, aquamarine, green-gray, steel, and black. <\/p>\n \u201cConcrete sinks will continue to be popular, especially in powder rooms or a double vanity that hangs on the wall. Another area that is returning is exposed aggregate for sidewalks, driveways, and patios. Aggregate is pleasing because of the rich, textured look.\u201d<\/p>\n Rooted in functional design with a European influence, she says transitional styles will still lead the way. \u201cHomeowners are leaning toward clean lines with soothing colors, and the push toward green products with a high recycle content will remain strong.\u201d <\/p>\n She agrees with other professionals that the trend toward painted cabinets will also continue. \u201cGray isn\u2019t going away any time soon, but I anticipate more blue-grays emerging over the next year.\u201d<\/p>\n One of those European influences Nichols foresees over the coming months is large-scale elements in design\u2014large-format tiles in both flooring and subway wall tiles, large kitchen sinks, even oversized pavers in outdoor installations. \u201cThe European influence complements the metallic and concrete looks popular with industrial style.\u201d <\/p>\n She believes neutral colors will remain popular in everything from paint to tile. \u201cWhether it\u2019s glass, porcelain, wood-look, or another material, large formats are really growing in popularity. We\u2019re also seeing unique shapes in all sizes\u201d In every area, clean lines and muted, neutral colors will dominate designs.<\/p>\n From Ted:<\/strong> \u201cWe are integrating more and more metal in our designs. In construction, we\u2019re using more steel framing, not just wood. That means fewer posts, which we often wrap in stone. All this makes it easier to create an engineered look.<\/p>\n \u201cOn the plant side, there\u2019s been a switch. Many homeowners are opting for planting more annuals. Perennials are great, of course, but if space is at a premium, it\u2019s easier to get good color and get it faster with annuals. Shrubs now have become the secondary choice for many spots.\u201d<\/p>\n From Melissa and Keegan: <\/strong>\u201cPeople are wanting to extend the outdoor season, which may mean an outdoor kitchen and a fireplace or fire pit and covered outdoor space. Outdoor heaters and TVs are requested more often. <\/p>\n \u201cMore modern-style homes are being built, which means more modern landscaping, too. Low-maintenance, drought-tolerant, and native plants are desirable for this climate and are good for the environment.<\/p>\n \u201cUse of mixed materials, which include natural stone, manmade pavers, steel, and aluminum, will continue to grow. People enjoy adding personality to outdoor spaces through artwork, fountains, and outdoor accents.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cResidential sales are similar and in line to last year at this point. In the first part of the year, activity is often a matter of weather. The pace of sales is active, and that can depend on the inventory.<\/p>\n \u201cDevelopment continues west and north. I admit to being a little concerned that we\u2019re overbuilding in downtown Des Moines. Time will tell on that.\u201d <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" New calendar, new year, new ideas. A new year brings a clean slate and a forecast for the coming year. What new ideas will take shape? What national trends will come to the Iowa market? The home-building industry in central Iowa is strong, but how will it fare during 2018? What new ideas will make an impact on the local scene? For answers and views on what\u2019s ahead, we looked to area builders, landscape specialists, and, yes, even a banker to see how they perceive Iowa\u2019s future. Our experts see the national trends before those trends hit locally, and they know the products and the techniques to help them lead the way. Bring on the new year! Kevin Johnson Accurate Development \u201cI predict that the more-contemporary designs in homes will continue. I also feel the trend to larger outdoor projects\u2014fire pits and built-in barbecues\u2014will remain strong and expand. And to emphasize that outdoor feel, homeowners will want large, 12-foot-wide sliding doors with more panels. They open up the interior of the home nicely to the outside. \u201cAs for building areas, Adel is great. There are large lots, and much of the ground has character. Bottom line, every place around the […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_lmt_disableupdate":"","_lmt_disable":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-6013","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-featured"],"modified_by":"Build Des Moines","_links":{"self":[{"href":"http:\/\/www.builddesmoines.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6013","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"http:\/\/www.builddesmoines.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"http:\/\/www.builddesmoines.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/www.builddesmoines.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/www.builddesmoines.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=6013"}],"version-history":[{"count":11,"href":"http:\/\/www.builddesmoines.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6013\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":6030,"href":"http:\/\/www.builddesmoines.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6013\/revisions\/6030"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"http:\/\/www.builddesmoines.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=6013"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/www.builddesmoines.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=6013"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/www.builddesmoines.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=6013"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
\nKevin Johnson
\nAccurate Development<\/a><\/h4>\n
\nCorey Gersdorf
\nAIM Kitchen & Bath<\/a><\/h4>\n
\nHarold Cross
\nArchadeck of Central Iowa<\/a><\/h4>\n
\nKim Downing Manning
\nBankers Trust<\/a><\/h4>\n
\nRob Walker
\nBeisser Lumber<\/a><\/h4>\n
\nJosh Madison
\nFinished Edge<\/a><\/h4>\n
\nRick Thompson
\nGilcrest\/Jewett Lumber<\/a><\/h4>\n
\nChad Lenz
\nHighland Development<\/a><\/h4>\n
\nBrennan Buckley
\nIowa Realty<\/a><\/h4>\n
\nColin King
\nK&V Homes<\/a><\/h4>\n
\nDevan Kaufman
\nKaufman Construction <\/a><\/h4>\n
\nJenna Kimberley and April Ford
\nKimberley Development<\/a><\/h4>\n
\nTina Noel
\nMoehl Millwork<\/a><\/h4>\n
\nRick Parrino
\nPlum Building Systems<\/a><\/h4>\n
\nJeremy Speck
\nSpeck USA<\/a><\/h4>\n
\nAngie Nichols
\nSunderland Brothers<\/a><\/h4>\n
\nThese same preferences apply to countertop trends as well, she says. \u201cProducts that offer virtually maintenance-free, antimicrobial benefits but with the drama and realistic look of stone or marble are hugely popular with homeowners.\u201d<\/p>\n
\nTed, Melissa, and Keegan Lare
\nTed Lare Design + Build<\/a><\/h4>\n
\nLes Sulgrove
\nVIA Group, REALTORS\u00ae<\/sup><\/a><\/h4>\n