Posts from IBS 2012: part 1

There was certainly a much more positive vibe at this year's IBS Show. Not nearly as vibrant as the recent apartment industry events but much improved year over year. There were still some big names noticeably absent from the exhibit floor but my sense is that the tide has started to turn and we will start to see a more aggressive stance in the second half of 2012. The lack of new supply, improving employment picture and rising rents should accelerate the enthusiasm this Spring.


To quote Tom Toomey,(CEO of UDR) back in early 2011..."apartment developers are going to look back on these times and wonder why they weren't more aggressive..." I think the same can now be said about home builders and vendors in the single family segment. 

There was definitely a buzz about multifamily applications for traditional building products. I was able to snap a few pictures at some of the visits I made this week. Giving the "illusion of custom" is a theme that is going to resonate with Gen Y renters. I expect to see building product manufacturers start to get more aggressive in participating in the growth of multifamily construction as well.


Here are a few interesting ideas for multifamily housing at the builder show: 

Rubbermaid: Closets that can be easily customized and replaced on the turn. This wire shelving is GREENGUARD Certified and can be upgraded to give a "walk-in" feel (not shown). 

Tim O'Connor demonstrates the ease of installation of Sterling's  new line of   Bathtub Showers made of Vikrell. Popular for new construction and renovation in the multifamily space. 

NanaWall shows off its glass wall system that can be installed on balconies.  More functional space and noise reduction in your older product in need of a facelift.