EIGHT FOR 08: CASE UNVEILS EIGHT EMERGING HOME TRENDS FOR 2008

With the real estate market working its way through a slow period, homeowners are looking for improvements that make their current home more stylish, enjoyable, and usable. Here are the top eight trends that are making a big splash on the remodeling scene in 2008:

Attic Transformations
Once solely thought of as a storage area, attic space provides an additional area for families to maximize and enjoy. Redesigned attic spaces can be built to feature amenities such as private bathrooms, recessed lighting and hardwood floors.

Skylights
Skylights and solar tubes bring natural sunlight into otherwise dark areas… and can dramatically transform a living space without the need for artificial lighting and increased energy consumption.

Eco-Friendly Renovations
Rising concern for the environment – and rising energy costs – make “green” improvements more popular than ever. Insulated windows and sliding glass doors are popular, as are upgrades to more efficient appliances.

Soaking Tubs
Popular for their comfort and lower cost (compared to jacuzzi tubs), soaking tubs add a bit of luxury to almost any bath.

Walk-in Closet Suites
Many bedroom and bathroom renovations now incorporate large walk-ins with extensive and flexible storage space.

Faux Stone
Easy to work with, today’s faux stone finishes look amazingly life-like and open up a world of design possibilities for walls, facades and landscaping.

Home Offices
Once the domain of a few flexible workers, home offices now make sense for workers in a wide variety of fields. Dedicated space makes every worker more efficient.

Lower Level Living
Families that want to spend more time together find that the basement is a great place for a home theatre, game room, or hobby area.