The Millennial generation was literally in its’ infancy by the time Star Wars Episode VI – Return of the Jedi hit movie theaters in 1983. I was 14 years old and the force was with me…wishing for Han Solo’s brazen confidence and Luke Skywalker’s quiet strength…and maybe even hoping to attract the attention of my own Princess Leia.
Fast forward to 2016 and the force awakens. And while my generation finds comfort in again seeing the Millennium Falcon fly once more, in kitchen remodeling the real “force” is with the “Millennial” falcons ready to move on a new kitchen. Born between 1982 and 1996, the Millennial generation wants many of the things in a kitchen remodeling experience that parallel (almost) the entire Star Wars movie franchise. Let’s take a look:
· Millennials want quality. When it comes to kitchen remodeling, Millennials want quality…in the all the products they have to choose from. Think the first 3 Star Wars movies and the current installment. Give them Episodes I-III quality and no one is happy.
· Millennials want experience. Millennials recognize the value of experience in a kitchen remodeling project. Who wouldn’t want an experienced hand like Han Solo or Princess Leia guiding them through the daunting galaxy of kitchen remodeling? Having designers and design experts knowing what to look for throughout the process and educating millennials on what to expect makes all the difference.
· Millennials want technology. While R2D2 and C3PO pushed the notion of what technology could be at the time, Millennials are the first generation to grow up on the internet, so incorporating technology is essential to their kitchen remodeling experience. From high tech appliances (think Energy Star here, not Dark Star) to integrated wireless charging solutions, technology plays a critical role in a Millennials kitchen.
· Millennials want design options. Glass doors, open storage cabinets, kitchen cabinet accessories, kitchen islands are areas to discuss with your Millennial customers. But they want more, so think beyond the kitchen and into the garage, laundry room and entertainment areas.
· Millennials want an experience. We’re not talking light saber shows and Jedi mind tricks here, but a proactive, highly communicative kitchen remodeling experience that makes them feel good about the decisions they are making and the final result. In that sense, they are like every client starting a kitchen remodeling experience.
The “Millennial” Falcons are a force to be reckoned with. Nobody needs to become a Jedi. The real “force” lies in asking questions, listening and working together to create a kitchen remodeling experience that everyone enjoys.
