Designs by BSB

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Posts Tagged TRENDS

NKBA 2010 Bathroom Design Trends

Apr 20

Posted by Becky Sue Becker, CKD, CAPS in Counter Tops, Flooring, Plumbing Products, TRENDS

BATHROOMS

1. In With the Old, Out with the New
Traditional will be the most popular design style in bathrooms in 2010, as contemporary designs will be a distant second, followed by the Shaker style as an even more distant third. Beiges and bones will be the most common colors used in bathrooms, followed by whites and off-whites, and then by browns, indicating a somewhat subdued color palette this year.

2. Ceramic and Granite
Ceramic and porcelain tile will be the dominant flooring materials in bathrooms this year, while natural stone will continue to prove popular as well. Though increasingly popular in kitchens, hardwood flooring won’t become common in bathrooms in 2010. For vanity tops, granite will remain king, with quartz and marble also proving popular options.

3. Simple Fixtures
Perhaps more than ever, the most common color for fixtures will be white. Bisque and off-white will be the only other fixture colors at all common in new or remodeled bathroom. For sinks, simple undermount models will be most popular, followed by integrated sink tops, drop-in sinks, vessel sinks, and pedestal sinks.

4. A Nickel for Every Finish
Faucet finishes in the bathroom are similar to those used in current kitchen designs, with brushed nickel continuing to lead the way in 2010. Polished chrome and satin nickel will also be incorporated into many bathrooms, just as they had been throughout 2009. These faucet finishes will be followed by bronze and stainless steel.

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NKBA 2010 Kitchen Design Trends

Apr 17

Posted by Becky Sue Becker, CKD, CAPS in Appliances, Cabinetry, Counter Tops, Flooring, Industry News, Plumbing Products, TRENDS

The National Kitchen & Bath Association has released their design trends for 2010!

… do you like? … agree?  …would you consider these trends TOO trendy?

Traditional is the New Contemporary
Traditional will continue as the most popular kitchen design style in 2010, with contemporary following closely behind, while the Shaker style is seeing a surprisingly strong resurgence. Shades of whites and off-whites will be the most common kitchen colors in 2010, while brown, beige, and bone hues will also be popular.
Cherry on Top
Cherry will remain the most popular wood for kitchen cabinetry, followed closely by maple, while alder increases in use. As for the finishes placed on those cabinets, medium natural, dark natural, glazed, and white painted will all be common. Other colors of painted cabinetry and light natural finishes are in decline, however, as are distressed finishes.

Floored by Tile
Ceramic and porcelain tile, as well as natural stone tile, remain popular kitchen flooring options, but hardwood will dominate the kitchen landscape more than ever in 2010. For countertops, granite continues to be the most popular option, but quartz will nearly catch up in popularity. For backsplashes, ceramic or porcelain tile and glass will serve as the primary materials.

Backsplashes: Porcelain, ceramic and glass tiles will be the materials of choice for many when choosing their backsplash.


Flexible Faucets
Standard kitchen faucets will become less standard in 2010 in favor of more convenient models. Pull-out faucets continue to increase their market dominance, while pot filler faucets will also become more prevalent. Kitchen faucets will most often be finished in brushed nickel, followed by stainless steel, satin nickel, and—surprisingly—polished chrome.


Undercounter Refrigeration
French door and freezer-bottom are the two most popular styles of refrigerators, and side-by-side refrigerators remain a popular option. A surprising trend is the extent to which undercounter refrigerator drawers are being used in the latest kitchen designs. Perhaps even more surprising is that undercounter wine refrigerators have been recently specified by half of kitchen designers.

A Range of Cooking Options
The tried-and-true range continues to serve as the workhorse for cooking, although the combination of a cooktop and wall oven is beginning to overtake it. Gas will maintain its position as the most popular type of cooktop over electric, although induction cooking continues to gain in popularity due to its energy efficiency.

Dishwasher-in-a-Drawer
Standard dishwashers, with the traditional door that pulls from the top down, will once again be easily the most common type in 2010. However, an increasing number of dishwasher drawers will be installed in kitchens this year for their convenience and their ability to wash small loads of dishes in each drawer, thereby saving water and electricity.

You should always keep in mind the definition of a trend!  Some are keepers, some may pass within a year or two!   When designing your own space be sure to incorporate what matters most to YOU!   Check back in the coming days for the Bath Design Trends!

www.nkba.org

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Eight Kitchen Cabinet Trends

Jan 26

Posted by Becky Sue Becker, CKD, CAPS in Cabinetry, Editorials

Think outside the box with these perennial and emerging kitchen cabinet trends ~
white hot

It may be the start of a new decade, but some kitchen cabinet trends are timeless. “Functionality is still number one with us,” said Pat Caulfield, AKBD, VP of sales & marketing at Keener Kitchen, a full-service kitchen and bath cabinet manufacturer and design firm with showrooms in Red Lion, PA, and Timonium, MD.

In addition, value and quality are more important than ever these days. “More and more people are bargain hunting,” Caulfield said. “This is a fashion industry, so people want ornamentation—but not over the top. It’s not fashionable now to be a blatant consumer.” She added, “People want items that are well-manufactured and will last.”

On top of this perennial trifecta of trends, some new kitchen cabinetry trends have emerged. Caulfield illustrates five recent cabinet preferences with photos of kitchen designs by Keener Kitchen.

A STREAMLINE DESIGN WITH CLEAN LINES

STREAMLINE DESIGN

“‘Transitional Contemporary’ is the new term,” said Caulfield. “Clients want something that will stand the test of time.” The use of heavy Tuscan-style moldings has really toned down, for example. “People still want moldings, but in an understated and traditional sense,” she said.

WHITE-HOT KITCHENS

white hot

“Ever since the Diane Keaton movie, Something’s Gotta Give, with that great white kitchen, we’ve seen a huge surge in that style,” Caulfield said. “It’s a throwback to grandma’s kitchen—white paint, inset door, bin pulls. People are searching for a level of comfort that is a throwback to what they remember.”

MAKING IT WORK FOR YOU

making it work


“Organization and storage units are very popular [hidden] inside cabinetry,” said Caulfield, “including Le Mans corner systems, ‘mixer lifts’ and pullout tray shelves.”

COORDINATING HARDWARE

coordinating hdwe

“Oil-rubbed bronze, brushed stainless and nickel—these are not going away because of stainless appliances,” Caulfield said. “People are sticking with hardware that goes with those.” Bin pulls, from contemporary to traditional, are still popular, as is mixing hardware.

ADDING CUSTOM ACCENTS TO CLASSIC DESIGN

custom touches

While homeowners may keep cabinet styles simple, they are adding interest with appliances and accessories. “Appliances are the new bling,” said Caulfield. “Microwaves, dishwashers, warming drawers—little luxuries are becoming important. A hot pink KitchenAid mixer can pop the space, but can be changed easily.”

All photos courtesy of Keener Kitchen. Article Written By Ellen Sturm Niz via Kitchen and Bath Design Trends From Kitchen and Bath Business Magazine – kbb.

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DESIGN PREDICTIONS FOR 2010

Jan 12

Posted by Becky Sue Becker, CKD, CAPS in Appliances, Cabinetry

dacor appliance logo Article by Dacor Appliances:    As the New Year begins, many people are thinking of ways to revitalize their living spaces.  But before you remodel or redecorate, you should know what trends designers see taking hold in 2010.

Designers agree there will be a continued focus on green design, open floor plans with contemporary styling and the overall evolution of the kitchen from merely a space for eating and cooking to an area for entertaining and living.

Employing environmentally friendly methods in construction and remodeling, in addition to exploring more energy efficient alternatives, has increased greatly over the recent years and designers believe that the trend towards “going green” will continue.

“We have already seen an increase in awareness and interest in how the average home can be part of going green without a major expense or change in lifestyle,” said Michelle Drenckhahan, Principal Interior Designer of Spacial Adaptation.  “We will continue to see a lot of people interested in energy efficiency as well as useful and more cost-friendly ways to incorporate it into design.”

Cost has often been a deterrent for many homeowners when considering using environmentally friendly materials in remodeling.  The recent economic recession has made it even more difficult.  Not only are homeowners reconsidering what types of materials to use, but the recession has also widened the gap between people who can legitimately afford to remodel their kitchen or bath with a realistic budget in mind and the tire-kickers looking for freebies, according to Gerry Snapke of CAD Kitchen Plans.

Snapke predicts in 2010, designers will see a continuation of the move towards contemporary styles with clean lines, sleek designs and more open wall space, rather than crowding as many cabinets as possible into the kitchen.

Reducing the number of cabinets will change how cabinetry is designed and force homeowners to adapt.  Susan Serra, CKD, author of The Kitchen Designer, predicts many homeowners will seriously re-evaluate what they really need to store in their kitchens for the very first time.

Design trends will go beyond merely reconfiguring one’s space, and the role the kitchen plays in the home will continue to evolve.

The kitchen is no longer solely the room for cooking and eating but transformed into a space for entertaining and living.  Both appliance and cabinetry design have changed to reflect the evolving trend.

“Although we’ve talked about it for quite some time, we have seen a new serious appreciation and gratitude for the pleasures of cooking and socializing with friends and loved ones as a result of recent difficult times.  Simply put, more cooking and more living are being done in the kitchen and more living room-like features are being built into kitchens,” continued Serra.

Families are going out to eat less often, so appliances now provide a more robust cooking experience at home with functions that allow chefs to explore their creativity.  Pro-style ranges and cooktops, such as the Epicure® Dual-Fuel Range and the Epicure and Preference® Gas Cooktops have high-heat SimmerSear™ Burner output for cooking over a wide range of temperatures.

Installing cabinetry that resembles furniture pieces makes it easier to integrate the kitchen into other living spaces of the home, especially with the continued trend toward open floor plans.

“Integrated components and cabinets with glass door and wood veneer fronts help to incorporate living, dining and kitchen areas together,” said Peter Vidal, Senior Designer of Porcelanosa USA.

“We are seeing more and more great rooms that function as entertaining and cooking areas combined.  So, the trend for 2010 and perhaps onward in kitchen design is cabinetry that reflects your complete lifestyle,” continued Vidal.

Full article CLICK HERE.  Or for more information on the elegant line of Dacor Appliances visit:  www.dacor.com

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PR: Brizo Faucet Collection – Virage

Dec 2

Posted by Becky Sue Becker, CKD, CAPS in Product Reviews

DIFFERENT.  SURPRISING. DRAMATIC.  with a simple twist.

brizo virageBrizo’s new Virage faucets are an updated elegance that is sure to appeal and compliment nearly any decor.   It features gentle twists and curves  that make the style truly unique.  The fitting pays homage to the Art Deco period, but with a look that meshes with today’s sensibilities. The technology of this sophisticated faucet is also gentle on the environment with a spout that features a water-efficient, hidden laminar aerator, which results in a 1.5-gpm flow.

Available in five finishes, the Virage line also includes Roman tub fillers, handshowers and accessories.

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Kitchen Trend Watch

Oct 27

Posted by Becky Sue Becker, CKD, CAPS in TRENDS

Personalize your room – open your mind – your only limitation is your own imagination. Explore the possibilities – Think outside the box!

  • · Professional Appliances makes gourmet cooking not only a pleasure but makes it easier with modern features. Whether you choose to have them fully integrated with cabinetry panels or all stainless steel – they are the “trophies” of today’s kitchen.
  • · Mixture of materials/textures adds life and interest. Most people are comfortable specifying different colors of granite tops or stained and painted cabinetry – but the trend is moving faster. Interest is created when adding more texture such as wire grill, frosted glass or fabric inserts in the cabinet doors. Opportunities do not end there – copper handles or hood, stucco range hood, iron pot rack, glass backsplash tiles, or a walnut counter top – consider the possibilities to design your kitchen to be a conversation piece!
  • · Dual appliances give added convenience. Two dishwashers can ease the stress of unloading when you have dirty dishes to fill. Or a second dishwasher can be placed in a butler’s pantry, near the prep zone or closer to the eating area for fast clean up. Refrigerator drawers are convenient for drinks or snacks for children, or placed near a prep zone filled with vegetables.
  • · Why not display that collection of cookbooks on open shelving. Consider the notion that good design does not mean you fill all your walls with solid cabinetry. Open a cabinet above a refrigerator or other hard to reach area – this creates visual interest and lets the design breath.
  • · Europeans have been influencing design for decades. With the busy lifestyles of today, people appreciate their tendency of simplistic or minimalistic design. Clients are requesting less ornate details – delivering “less is more” approach. Clean lines and simplistic elements such as flat or recessed panel doors and sleek moldings are easy to clean and maintain.
  • · Wood counter tops add warmth. Some people are shy because of maintenance, but the reality is that it is not any more difficult than cleaning any other counter top. The beauty of wood is timeless and is never tiring. Used on islands with furniture elements such as turned legs, heavy baseboard delivers the look and feel of high quality furniture.
  • · Furniture details are a perfect way to personalize your design. There is an abundance of offerings in turned legs, feet, corbels and onlays. There are numerous design options to integrate or enhance your design to reflect your personal style.
  • · Kitchens are the heart and often the hub of your home. Designing a “command center” behind large pocket doors (or a nearby walk-in pantry) gives an area for a lap top computer for keeping a family calendar or recipes, mail organization and even numerous receptacles for charging phones and iPods for the entire family.
  • · Islands continue to grow in popularity. The benefits typically include: greater traffic flow, additional work zones, a prep sink, and furniture elements such as turned legs or feet. They are also growing in size –Be careful – while they can look impressive, often their size restricts traffic flow and can be difficult to reach to clean the center. I recommend keeping islands no wider than 4’ and length no greater than 9’. If your space allows more, consider having 2 islands.
  • · Decorative hardware options are unlimited. This offers the perfect opportunity to have fun ..
  • · Options for storage accessories have exploded over the last few years. Built-in trash bins, pull out spice racks, independent rotating lazy susans, peg drawer systems for dishes, utensil and cutlery inserts make a kitchen more organized and more importantly more efficient. More deep drawers are specified for easy access for not only pot and pans but for Tupperware, snacks and dishes.

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2009 Kitchen & Bath Trends

Sep 29

Posted by Becky Sue Becker, CKD, CAPS in Appliances, Cabinetry, Counter Tops, Editorials, Plumbing Products

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.


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TRENDS Publication features Calla Award winners

Oct 27

Posted by Becky Sue Becker, CKD, CAPS in Awards & Publications

The International renowned, TRENDS Magazine features the Calla Award winners of the 2008 Georgia Chapter Design Competition.  Large kitchen category winning entry designed by Becky Sue Becker, Certified Kitchen Designer.

Click HERE for the full feature.

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TRENDS Magazine features Designs by BSB

Nov 8

Posted by Becky Sue Becker, CKD, CAPS in Awards & Publications

TRENDS Magazine recently published a kitchen remodeling project that I was honored to be a team member of. The homeowner’s Bill & Susan Thigpen were an absolute delight to work with. Their contributions, along with that of their decorator, Margaret Bosbyshell of Margaux Interiors Ltd help create a kitchen the homeowner’s appreciate in both function and beauty.

Creating a distinctive look for a remodeled kitchen is top of the wish list for many homeowners. That’s certainly the experience of Lawrenceville designer Becky Sue Becker CKD, who used Sapele Mahogany in this project to create a focal point for the open-plan space.
“The owners of this home are both enthusiastic cooks, and had lived with a dated kitchen that did not suit the rest of the home. It was badly planned and cluttered, making cooking and storage difficult,” she says.
Becker set out to create a kitchen with a warm look that wouldn’t date easily. She designed painted cabinetry that looks like furniture, and included a tall display cabinet that doubles as a small home office. The center drawer drops down to conceal mail and a laptop.
These painted and glazed surfaces are balanced with more modern elements, such as a stainless steel range hood and refrigerator, to bring a professional look to the kitchen.
Finding a distinctive focal point for the kitchen was a challenge, says Becker, as the space was long and narrow.
“From every angle, the center of the room was the best option, so I placed the island here and installed a thick sapele mahogany wood countertop.The mahogany contrasts with the granite counter tops in the rest of the kitchen, and creates a comfortable area for preparing food,” she says.

Click here for original article and photography published by TRENDS

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