The Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS) is the largest trade show for industry professionals in North America. KBIS held in conjunction with the International Builders Show (IBS), the two events held in late January attracted 90,000 attendees and more than 2,000 exhibits. Manufacturers traditionally use KBIS to introduce new products and concepts, and the 2020 show did not disappoint. We want to share the emerging trends we spotted at KBIS with our clients and homeowners to help them plan the baths of their dreams.
Transitional-styled baths continue to top the style charts, followed closely by contemporary/modern, then traditional. The transitional style combines elements of modern design with traditional styling and is the best of both worlds.
In its recent 2019 trends analysis, Houzz.com reported that white remains the most popular color for bath vanities. KBIS showed lots of white, but manufacturers also showcased darker-toned cabinets and countertops. Blue cabinets were popular at KBIS, as several manufacturers paid homage to Pantone’s Color of the Year, Classic Blue. Emerging trends also include dramatic cabinet colors in charcoal, black, blue and green.
Lighter color countertops remain the most popular, according to the Houzz.com trends analysis. At KBIS there were lots of light-toned countertops, nevertheless, manufacturers were not afraid to deviate from popular past choices to present new dramatic and bold looks. Three of the major quartz producers introduced new black countertops along with rust, dark gray, blue, charcoal and dark-colored veined surfaces. Veined countertops were in vogue at KBIS. We saw white quartz countertops with brown and gray veins that resembled white marble, which is becoming more popular than marble itself.
The industrial look remained strong, especially among kitchen faucet manufacturers. This look also supports the trend of providing homeowners with commercial quality and performing products for the home. Many kitchen faucets featured pull-down spray and visible springs.
Homeowners and builders can personalize and customize their new baths to make personal and unique design statements. Several faucet manufacturers give homeowners the choice of mixing and matching finishes, different plates, surfaces, textures and colors for faucet handles that can be changed on a whim. Another manufacturer introduced a farmhouse sink with an interchangeable apron front offered in fireclay and six shades of stainless steel.
Tech took another step forward at KBIS this year with Bluetooth enabled fixtures, toilets, mirrors, lighting and new apps that can control multiple devices. It’s not that tech in the kitchen and bath is something new, but what is trending is more focused tech that meets the needs of homeowners as opposed to tech for tech sake. Almost all of the connected devices can be operated with the major home digital assistants such as Google Home and Amazon’s Alexa.
How can you capitalize on the newest trends in bath and create spectacular spaces that can stand the test of time?