Generational and societal influences are changing kitchen design, according to a recent survey by Masco Cabinetry — whose brands include KraftMaid, Merillat, QualityCabinets and DeNova.

The study — “2011: Lifestages Redefining the Kitchen” — was conducted among baby boomers and members of Gen X and Gen Y to help architects and designers better understand the changes in kitchens that are needed to meet the needs of these prospective customers.

Among the results of the survey, which was conducted online by Harris Interactive from Feb. 28-March 2:

• Twenty-two percent of home owners 18-65 felt that a place for feeding pets is a top-three kitchen extra, compared with only 10% who felt they needed a space for wine storage.
  
  
• While 63% of baby boomer home owners, aged 45-65, plan to stay in their current home over the next five to 10 years, 75% don’t feel that their current kitchen is universally designed to meet their needs.
  
  
• Gen X home owners, aged 35-44, are staying put and nearly half (49%) think they will spend up to a decade in their current residence.
  
  
• 40% of Gen Y home owners, aged 18-34, embrace the concept of multigenerational living and believe their parents will live with them in the future.

“Design professionals who have a strong understanding of generational influences and needs will be better prepared to deliver functional and attractive kitchens that home owners of all ages are willing to invest in,” said Sarah Reep, director of designer relations and education at Masco Cabinetry.

“From highchair to wheelchair needs and pet food to wine storage, we’ve uncovered how kitchen extras, floor plans, counter space and table heights can lead to flexible and functional designs,” she said.

“As architects and designers, we need to provide kitchen solutions specific enough to reflect the personal wants and needs of today’s home owners and flexible enough to accommodate a rapidly changing household demographic.” said Reep.

For more information on the survey results, click here.

Headquartered in Ann Arbor, Mich., Masco Cabinetry is a member of NAHB’s Leading Suppliers Council.

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