Want to know what the hottest trends in kitchens and baths are in 2009? The NKBA Design Competition received 678 entries, and after searching through all of them, the NKBA (National Kitchen & Bath Association) selected ten design elements that clearly stood out.
“The trends spotted in this year’s competition are a great example of what’s to come in kitchen and bath design,” said Suzie Williford, President, National Kitchen and Bath Association. “Each new trend will help turn a room into a well-designed, classic space.”
Based on the review of the design competition entries, the NKBA offers the top kitchen and bath trends for 2009:
Steel Counters
Stainless steel is emerging as a new countertop favorite in kitchen design by creating a sleek, modern look that ties in perfectly with stainless steel appliances. Its part of a styling trend which combines the ingredients of a commercial-style kitchen with the warmth of cherry cabinets and natural stone floor, creating a room that is efficient, yet comfortable.
Black and White Kitchens
Eschewing color, dramatic black and white color schemes are becoming the norm with its contrast to one another in both value and sheen. The versatility and functional design create visual interest while blending together for a simple feeling.
Mirror, Mirror Off The Wall
Flush-mounted bathroom wall mirrors are starting to yield to more creative placements. We’re seeing mirrors creatively popping up as freestanding furniture pieces, including back-to-back mirrors, sinks and faucets to provide a clear his-and-hers space.
Resin Panels
Tile and stone backsplashes are still popular but this year we’re seeing a number of designs with backsplashes made of interesting items such as fabric, mesh and bamboo, encased in plastic panel. These items create a unique look that complements the accents and countertops.
Tin Ceilings
Tin ceilings are being increasingly used to add more visual to kitchens and symmetrical focal points.
Floating Cabinets
To create a cleaner, more open feel, many of the latest bathroom designs are eliminating cabinet legs and toe kicks in favor of floating, wall-mounted units. This leaves a large open area beneath the cabinet that makes the room feel more spacious.
Stone Hearths
Huge, dramatic hearths made of natural stone are becoming more common in kitchens.
Shoji Screens
The Asian-influenced shoji screen is now gaining popularity in a number of kitchen designs as they provide separation between kitchens and other living spaces when needed, while still allowing light to pass through.
Chrome Is Back
After years of yielding to finishes like brushed nickel and oil-rubbed bronze, polished chrome is making a comeback, particularly in bathrooms.
Glass Elements
The use of glass was very prominent in the kitchens seen in 2009, but not in traditional places. Glass is turning up in countertops and backsplashes.
To see a slide show of supporting projects to the trends listed CLICK HERE
Click on the logo below for more information on the NKBA.
Once again I had took advantage of the great opportunity to attend the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (K/BIS) this past week. The event took place at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, Georgia, and featured more than 600 exhibitors and co-exhibitors! While the show was significantly smaller, surely a product of the economic times, I still found great value investing my time. Due to the downsize, I found myself to spend more quality time with the exhibitors. I have always valued this show as it delivers the best opportunity to preview the most current trends and product introductions. Stay tuned to more blogs in the near future on the products that peeked my interest!
One of my favorite moments was the opening Keynote Speaker, former Arkansas Governor, Mike Huckabee. He delivered a speech that was entertaining and inspiring as he spoke on leadership and values.
