K/BIS Trend Watch: Kitchen & Bath’s Top 10

The kitchen and bathroom are the two most-used rooms in your home, so shouldn’t they be first in line for a face lift? A common misconception is that these remodels have to cost a fortune.  However, many kitchens and baths already have great elements and can be updated instead of completely redesigned.  The National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) recently shared its top 2010 kitchen and bath trends, and we agree!
1. Shaker style kitchen design
2. Maple and alder cabinetry finishes
3. Quartz countertops
4. Pull-down/pull-out kitchen faucets
5. Polished chrome finishes
6. Under-counter refrigerator drawers
7. Dishwasher drawers for small loads
8. Marble vanity tops
9. Integrated sink tops, drop-in sinks, vessel sinks and pedestal sinks
10. Bronze and stainless steel finishes
What we (at K&A) are looking forward to this year and at K/BIS 2010…
The push to turn convenience into a luxury is very exciting. This can be seen with the under-counter refrigerated drawers and the dishwasher drawers for small loads. According to the NKBA, nearly a third of designers are incorporating this new trend into kitchens.
We are also excited about the pull-down/pull-out faucet, which is utilized by 85 percent of kitchen designers. This fixture has a retractable spray hose hidden inside the traditional fixed spigot. Sleek arms contain a hose, faucet, spray, and hot and cold controls all in one place. It’s convenient, compact and functional.
If you’re tired of running the dishwasher when it’s only half-full, consider installing a dishwasher drawer. Because it’s independently operated, you can wash small loads as economically as large ones. Plus, the extra flexibility to run cycles simultaneously with your traditional dishwasher makes clean-up quicker and easier, explaining why nearly a third of designers are incorporating this new trend into kitchens as well.
Granite and chrome will be stealing the show in 2010. According to the NKBA, granite is the dominant material chosen for vanities in current remodels – used by seven of every eight designers. However, granite will have some stiff competition as alternative natural materials, like marble, continue to gain momentum.
Chrome – which was the standard for faucets in the 1930s – is also making a comeback in a big way. Although it has remained one of the most popular looks, it is positioned to be one of the top trends in 2010. This finish reaches further than just the kitchen, and can found everywhere from bathrooms to garages. It’s one of the best little ways to make a big improvement.
What trends will be most popular?
I predict the trends listed above will prevail at the annual Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (being held in Chicago April 16-18). It’s one of the industry’s biggest and best shows, and as always, we’ll be there to be your eyes and ears if you can’t make it.
The K&A Team will scour the tradeshow floor to see what this year’s hottest trends are, and what new products the marketplace has to offer. Stay tuned to my Twitter and YouTube channel as we update live from the show.