Refeathering the empty nest.

• Position: Life in America - Brief Article

Basements become workshops, while children's rooms become libraries. These are just a couple of the housing and home-decorating trends demonstrated by the nation's more than 80,000,000 baby boomers entering their empty nest years. Often far from retirement, this fast-growing segment of the U.S. population is clearly enjoying its newfound freedom. To day's parents are finally treating themselves to the luxuries they have been dreaming about for years.

The American Furniture Manufacturers Association (AFMA) surveyed parents whose children have moved out and learned that nearly half of America's empty nesters will reinvest in their nest by renovating their current home, purchasing a new one, or even by splurging on a vacation home. One out of four will renovate their current home, with upgrades that include a trend toward purchasing higher-quality furnishings that were considered impractical with children around and limited budgets. About 78% of those surveyed have their eye on a "dream" piece of furniture.

"Empty nesters enjoy entertaining at home and are beautifying their surroundings more than ever before," notes AFMA vice president Jackie Hirschhaut. "They are eager to redecorate in a style that reflects their new lifestyle and at the same time showcase their homes with home furnishings they didn't allow themselves before."

When it comes to renovation, new living room furniture is first on the list, followed by a makeover of Junior's old room. The research shows that their offspring's bedroom most likely will become a library, hobby studio, guest room, home theater, or home office. While the rock posters and pop art come off the walls, parents don't say goodbye to their children altogether. "Oftentimes, parents will accessorize renovated rooms with family mementos, photos, diplomas, and other sentimental treasures? Hirschhaut points out.

Others targeted for improvement include the master bedroom, dining room, and family room. Whether they want to replace just one or two pieces...