The KBIS (Kitchen and Bath Industry Show) was just held at the end of January. This is where builders and designers get to see what is new and hot for the year ahead. There appears to be a shift in kitchen design happening. Rather than focusing on grand expansive kitchens, manufacturers are starting to design for the average homeowner. At KBIS several manufacturers debuted products that were designed with small kitchens in mind. Utilizing less space, combining functions and making appliances disappear were just some of the ideas coming out of this years' KBIS. GE's Cafe French Door refrigerator is one of these innovative designs. Rather than just a typical water dispenser, this refrigerator dispenses HOT water too. Perfect for a cup of soup or a cup of tea. No kettle needed to clutter your counter.
Want another great innovative design? The Cafe Series also sports a french door wall oven. You heard that right. A french door wall oven. One handed opening of both doors makes it a breeze to use and makes putting your food in or taking it out easier and safer. Not to mention it looks pretty great too.
Tired of stainless steel? Try Dacor's DacorMatch Color System. It allows you to choose from one of Dacor's 10 preselected colors or simply send a swatch and they will color match it to any color you choose.
What's hot in tile? Bold pattern. Manufacturers are giving consumers an alternative to plain subway tile. Gorgeous large scale pattern tiles are hot right now. Whether used on the floor, wall or as a backsplash, expect to see this style popping up everywhere. Not sure you want to commit to this trend? Add it as a feature tile in your backsplash or as the flooring in your powder room or mudroom.
How about countertops? Quartz is the winner for the hot trend. Manufacturers debuted patterns that are getting closer to real stone. Blue was one of the new hues.
Want a really unique solution to hiding your appliances? What about a sliding countertop that hides everything altogether? This one from Richelieu is quite spectacular.
Tired of hunting for your power cord? Hunt no more, turn almost any surface into a wireless charging station with TechTop. Simply place your phone down on the surface and charge your device wirelessly. Use it in countertops, furniture, you name it. Genius!
Kitchen design just got a whole lot more interesting. Function is becoming just as important as style. Practical solutions for small kitchens that make the most of the space you have, and help clear the counter tops of clutter that take up valuable workspace, is a hot trend. Other trends from KBIS include, cabinets in white and soft grays and browns. Hidden appliances like refrigerator drawers and other elements that make open kitchens blend seamlessly with adjoining living spaces and smaller appliances that use up a small footprint to maximize the space you have. Check back with me on more great trends from this years' KBIS. Next up, what's new in bathroom design.
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