In the future, what kinds of changes can we expect to see in the surfaces of our homes? Look for materials used for counters, floors, and walls to change slowly. Proven materials such as stone, laminates, solid surfacing, and gypsum wallboard will persevere; we'll gradually see a movement toward natural materials that come from sustainable resources and are affordable, recyclable, and easy to maintain.
"We may see two extremes, with high-tech synthetics made from space-age materials on one side, and indigenous materials like raw stone, concrete, grasses, and reeds on the other," says noted environmental planner Paul Bierman-Lytle.
More emphasis will be placed on surfaces that offer a measure of control over noise, light, glare, heat retention, and other environmental factors. Indoor air quality and health will be important considerations in surface choices.
Here are a few other comments from industry experts:
"There will be a kick in the rear to make things more environmentally sensitive, but then things will go back pretty much to the status quo."—Paul Bierman-Lytle, SEAS (Sustainable Environment Associates)
"People will have more interest in materials that have a long service life and require less maintenance. They'll be forced to become more aware of long-term costs as our resources become more and more finite."—David Hertz, AIA, Syndesis, Inc.
"Design and cost will always be the driving forces. Behind that comes function."—Bill Stettler, Director of Marketing for North America, Formica Corporation
"Surfaces will be regarded as more valuable and redeemable based on the embodied energy that it took for them to be put in place. People will see hardwood as something of beauty and value that needs to be taken care of...the purity of surfaces will come about."—John Picard, E2
Environmental Enterprises
Four surface trends you can count on by the year 2012:
1. Alternative materials
Laminated wood products, recycled wood and locally-produced, indigenous materials such as lightweight concrete and tile will become viable alternatives to solid wood and stone.
2. Integral sink bowls
Countertops will be custom formed with integral, seamless kitchen sinks. Materials will be anti-bacterial and--when they wear out--recyclable.
3. Universal design
For aging baby boomers, surfaces will be all user friendly. Countertops will be adjustable in height and have safer, rounded corners. Watch for skid-resistant, highly durable flooring and glare-free surfaces.
4. Living organisms
Genetic engineering will introduce materials that are living organisms, with surfaces that respond to environmental factors such as heat or chemicals.
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