Oversized "rain" showerheads and showers with body sprays and steam showers are among the trends for bathrooms in 2003 identified in an annual poll of a remodeling franchise network by DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen.

Other trends predicted for the bath include: solid surface shower walls, earth tones in tile, heated tile floors and traditional style cabinetry.

In the kitchen expect to see more quartz countertops, solid surface materials such as Corian, the commercial look of stainless steel appliances, and under-cabinet lighting or "hockey puck" lighting under cabinets. The poll also found that more homeowners will choose to make the kitchen an open extension into the family room, incorporating fireplaces, family seating and gathering places.

Maple finish with caramel or ivory glazes is still popular in both the kitchen and bath, but hickory is gaining a wider audience and demand for dark finishes such as merlot is expected to increase in 2003, the survey said.

DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen by WorldwideR, a national remodeling franchise, is an associate company of The Dwyer Group, a large multi-franchise holding company. With about 250 franchises in 15 countries, DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen by Worldwide averages more than 20,000 jobs a year. For more information, visit the Web site: www.DreamMaker-remodel.com.