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, inexpensive materials such as laminates and gypsum wallboard will persevere, but 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 by homeowners and manufacturers 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.

“Surfaces will be regarded as more valuable and redeemable based on the embodied energy that it took for them to be put in place,” says John Picard of E2 Environmental Enterprises, Inc.

Echoes David Hertz of Syndesis, Inc.: “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.”

So, what surface trends should we look for?

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.

Integral sink bowls
Countertops will be custom formed with integral, seamless sinks. Materials will be anti- bacterial and—when they wear out—recyclable.

Universal design
With the baby-boomer generation aging, all kinds of surfaces will increasingly become more user-friendly. For example, countertops will be adjustable in height and have safer, rounded corners. Also watch for skid-resistant, highly durable flooring and glare-free surfaces.

Living organisms
Genetic engineering will introduce materials that are living organisms, with surfaces that respond to environmental factors such as heat or chemicals.