10 kitchen and bath design trends we spotted at KBIS 2021
It’s been a year since COVID-19 spread across the world. Builders, interior designers, and design experts have seen how the health crisis influences how we view and live in our homes. The kitchen and bath industry, in particular, has noticed our shift to technology, our raised standards for cleanliness, and our desire for our spaces to reflect our dream lifestyle.
Due to health and safety concerns and ongoing travel restrictions stemming from the pandemic, the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) recently held the virtual edition of its annual Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS). Because we focus on tiles and interior design, we eagerly anticipate KBIS and the trends, products, and technologies that allow us all to enjoy beautiful and functional kitchens and baths. After all, we spend so much of our time in these two sanctuaries.
We explored the online expo halls of KBIS 2021 and are more than happy to share with you the emerging kitchen and bath design trends that we spotted at the virtual trade show. Here is a handpicked list of what we’ll be seeing in kitchens and baths not only in 2021 but in years to come.
Bidet toilets
Remember last year’s toilet paper shortages? Do you wish that Japanese toilet technology would come to North America? Toto, the world’s largest plumbing manufacturer, presented at KBIS 2021 two contemporary lavatories with built-in bidets. With an ergonomic build and fashionable skirted design, these latrines are far from ordinary.
Color across the spectrum
KBIS 2021’s panel of design experts shared that kitchen and bath color choices will be either bold or neutral. But homeowners are increasingly selecting colors that reflect their personality rather than industry trends. In this sapphire blue kitchen, Wellborn Cabinet adds a contemporary twist to a traditional kitchen with touches of chrome and rustic cherry.
Cosmopolitan living
With continuing quarantines and border restrictions, traveling seems like a distant dream. As we anticipate the day we can journey across the world, feed your wanderlust with small but impactful touches that remind you of your travels. This Avenue shower door with a matte black finish is reminiscent of city skylines. Wouldn’t this make a great window to a bathroom mosaic or tile design?
Customizable appliances
With different colors and varying finishes, appliances can be an exciting conversation piece in your kitchen. Monogram, for example, offers a wide array of metals for their professional-grade ranges. On the other hand, BlueStar takes it up a notch by printing personalized panels for its appliances. Just like our custom mosaics, you can send BlueStar a high-resolution photograph of your favorite artwork or pattern.
Down to the last detail
In interior design, every detail counts. That includes overlooked objects like drawer knobs and pulls. Belwith Keeler has been producing refined hardware since 1893. For KBIS 2021, they showcased their Corsa collection inspired by mid-20 th-century and 21 st-century design.
Home spa experience
In a previous article, we’ve talked about how more people are transforming their bathrooms into a home spa. Interestingly, embracing technology can be a part of that process. One of our personal favorites is the Moxie showerhead and wireless speaker from Kohler. The waterproof and detachable speaker is so convenient. While you shower, you can rock out to your favorite song, listen to a podcast or soothing nature sounds, or ask your voice assistant about today’s weather.
Light marble
According to NKBA research on 2021 design trends, quartz, particularly in lighter colors, will continue to be the driving material for countertops. Caesarstone’s Whitelight collection is an excellent example of this emerging trend towards surfaces that consider safety, aesthetics, and durability. The company’s line of lighter neutral colors beautifully captures the movement and drama of natural stone.
Natural and organic
In a November 2020 statement, the NKBA revealed that “design preferences in both kitchen and bath will continue to be more contemporary and transitional in style, with the added influence of a new leading trend of natural/organic.” Think clean lines, minimal detailing, natural finishes, and large windows. It’s all about bringing the feeling of the outdoors inside. Riobel illustrates this trend with their water-inspired Reflet collection.
Organized cabinets and drawers
KonMari and the Home Edit have encouraged many of us to keep our spaces tidy and organized. But folding clothes into thirds and arranging belongings by color is more than just a visual exercise. It’s about turning your cluttered room into an efficient one. And Rev-a-Shelf’s Maxx drawer system and Hardware Resources’ No Wiggle Knife Pullout perfectly demonstrate this shift in mindset.
Hands-off
Motion-controlled or hands-free faucets have been cropping up not only in kitchens but in bathrooms as well. They’re ideal for powder rooms and shared bathrooms where many hands touch the same tap. You may have seen the same technology in public restrooms. However, with the coronavirus, it was a matter of time that hands-free faucets would be introduced to households.
Which kitchen and bath design trend is your favorite? How will you apply it to your kitchen or bathroom this year? Share your reactions with us in the comments.
