IFor immediate release
Contact: Chellee Siewert, Executive Director, 262.436.1122; Cell 262.442.5188
Trends Featured in the 2008 Parade of Homes
(Waukesha, WI) July 25, 2008 - Prepare to be amazed when you step inside the 2008 Parade of Homes. Secluded master bedroom suites, gourmet kitchens filled with every amenity, and technology centers are just a few of the trends featured in the 2008 Parade. This annual new home tour has traditionally captured the trends for interior design, landscaping, and new products, with the 2008 Parade featuring eight homes that are right on target once again.
The most popular trend at this year’s Parade focuses on energy efficient and green building technologies. As requests for energy efficient and green building features becomes more common among new homeowners, the builders of the 2008 Parade of Homes are eager to show consumers how they have incorporated these innovative technologies throughout their home models.
“We are excited to see the new designs and products that our members have brought to this year’s Parade,” said Metropolitan Builders Association Executive Director Chellee Siewert. “Every year they are able to showcase their fine craftsmanship and the latest trends in the industry.”
Green Built Home™ & ENERGY STAR® Certified
For the first year ever, each Parade home is Green Built Home™ and Wisconsin ENERGY STAR® certified. Homes built to these certification standards not only add long-term value to a home but they also help a home operate more efficiently, saving homeowners on energy and utility bill costs. Those who visit the 2008 Parade of Homes will have the opportunity to view a variety of home layouts and technologies that meet the requirements of these reputable, and increasingly popular, standards.
Gourmet Kitchens
The 2008 Parade features top-of-the-line gourmet kitchens with walk-in pantries and an abundance of custom birch cabinets, providing ample storage room. Boot benches and drop zones are carefully constructed for homeowners to take off their shoes and drop their keys after returning home. Oversized islands are another element found in most of the kitchens, providing extra space for preparing large meals or for kids to do homework as their parents prepare dinner. Connected to the kitchen, many Parade homes feature a casual dinette area or an elegant dining room for family members and guests to gather.
Technology Centers
With the internet becoming a must-have for most households to help the kids with their homework, help families stay in touch, and as a way for parents to work from home, many of the 2008 Parade models have incorporated technology centers, also known as home offices, into their floorplans. The technology centers feature office space for paying bills, multiple computer stations so everyone can have their own computer, and work space for kids to complete their school projects.
Outdoor Living Spaces
Builders are doing all they can to incorporate comfortable outdoor living spaces in homes due to their rising popularity. Whether the porches are located at the front of the home, the side, or back, they bring with them a taste of yesteryear and extend the entertaining areas of the home to the outside. Some of the porches on this year’s tour are also screened so days and evenings can be enjoyed without insects or weather dampening the party.
Master Suites Provide Tranquility
Master suites are still commanding attention as they provide the ideal place for homeowners to unwind after a long day. Plenty of wall space allows homeowners to create their own serene sitting area in front of large windows that expose the natural outdoor landscape. In addition to peaceful sitting areas, the master baths offer spa-like features, including custom tile showers, whirlpool baths and dual vanities, to encourage relaxation and offer a private escape for tired homeowners.
Arched Decors
Consumers can find ideas for unique arched décor in every home at the 2008 Parade. Whether they are featured in the kitchen, foyer, great room, master bedroom and even the basement, arches add a simple elegance, and flow from one room to another, making rooms appear larger at the same time.
General Information
The Parade of Homes runs August 16 through September 7. Admission at the Parade sites is $10. Discount tickets can be purchased online for $9 or for $8 at participating ticket vendors. Admission for children 12 and under is $5. Parade hours are 3 to 8 pm Monday through Friday and 11 am to 5 pm weekends and Labor Day. For more information, directions, or a listing of discount ticket vendors, visit our web site at www.mbaonline.org.
