Q: More people in mid-level properties now expect products that recently came only in luxury units. How has that affected what you install in your multifamily buildings? A: In the past, we would have leaned toward putting solid-surface counter-tops in the top five floors but laminate below. Now we put the same solid-surface countertops and light fixtures in the whole building.
Bathrooms used to have laminate countertops, linoleum floors, and acrylic one-piece shower-tubs. We’re now putting in marble, granite, and Corian countertops; ceramic tile on walls and floors; and porcelain tubs. Our faucets really haven’t changed.
Another interesting change for us is in appliances. We used to put black appliances in, and people could upgrade to steel. Now the difference in cost between the two is less than it used to be. We put in stainless, but if you want black, it will cost you less.
–Anna McQuiston Holtzclaw is vice president of Henry Turley Co. in Memphis, Tenn., which focuses on conversions.
–To participate in future Q&As, contact Rachel Z. Azoff at razoff@hanleywood.com.
Hot Product of the Month
Moen TWIST AND SPOUT: Moen’s Waterhill two-handle bridge kitchen faucet features a swivel spout that rotates and a side spray. The ADA-compliant faucet can be mounted with or without the side spray in two-, three-, or four-hole applications. The Waterhill comes in chrome, stainless steel, and wrought iron finishes. Also available is a one-handle design; the handle can be set on the right or left of the spout. Hot and cold indicators are optional.
For more information, call Moen at 800-289-6636 or visit www.moen.com.