The Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 established energy standards for general-purpose 40–100-watt (W) incandescent lamps that effectively phased them out. In turn, a number of key trends is imposing major technological change on lighting. Lighting plays a role in all of these trends, from greater connectivity and control, to energy efficiency, to satisfying the particular vision and lifestyle needs of the growing senior population. The results included technology integration offering greater control of temperature, security and lighting energy-efficient and sustainable design elements senior-friendly options such as added handrails kitchens remaining the home’s focal point and outdoor and home-office spaces growing in importance.

Several major trends are affecting home design, according to the American Institute of Architects (AIA), which asked a panel of 500 architects what they thought would be the hottest home-design features over the next decade. “With job creation, economic growth and growing household formations, we anticipate the housing market to continue to pick up traction as we head into 2016.” “For the past seven months, builder confidence levels have averaged in the low 60s, which is in line with a gradual, consistent recovery,” said David Crowe, NAHB chief economist and senior vice president, in mid-December 2015. Meanwhile, according to the National Association of Home Builders’ (NAHB) Housing Market Index, builder confidence remains strong. With spending increasing 12.6 percent for the year, home construction was a bright spot in construction. Total construction spending jumped 10.5 percent in 2015 to $1.1 trillion, the highest level in eight years, according to the U.S. Historically, residential construction averages 5 percent of the country’s gross domestic product. A steady recovery began in 2012, and it continues today, bolstering the U.S. The 2008 housing-market crash ended the home construction boom.

Half life focalpoint downlight