Trends & INNOVATIONS Need for performance and convenience merge form and function in the kitchen & bath Today’s kitchens are trending toward smarter space plans, energy efficiency, cooking technology, durability and green solutions. We asked Peggy McGowan of Kitchen & Bath Concepts to share her expert insights about current and coming trends for kitchens. With more than 25 years of experience, this Certified Master Kitchen and Bath Designer is also a member of the American Society of Interior Designers. “Kitchens and bathrooms are getting more contemporary in styling,” says McGowan. “Traditional looks are really now more ‘transitional’ with less heavy trim and moldings on cabinetry.” There are multiple trends in play when it comes to cabinet finishes. The National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) has noted deep, dark browns, such as chocolate and espresso finishes. McGowan reports much lighter colors are gaining popularity. “We’ve seen demand for neutral, natural woods and shades of white and pale grey,” says McGowan. “Sometimes these are high gloss, and sometimes they are punctuated by sharp contrasting colors in unexpected places, to create a wow factor.” Placement of cabinetry is taking on more variety. “Cabinets are not just boxes lined up on every kitchen wall,” says McGowan. Options include open, sometimes floating, shelves at staggered heights and positions. “Having fewer cabinets requires creative thinking about storage, so functionality and convenience are key,” she says. Clever conveniences include automated door-opening mechanisms for doors and drawers, especially trash pull-out.
ABOVE & LEFT: The Seimatic BeauxArts.02 kitchen features symmetrical, sliding steel drawer fronts in the cooking area to contrast the framed lacquer cabinet doors. The hefty, 5-cm StoneDesign countertop has an elliptical edge that softens its ample volume. The backsplash is Maljat Brown limestone and the vent hood boasts a lacquered glass cover. RIGHT: This five-burner Thermador induction cooktop includes the manufacturer’s exclusive induction component technology, considered to be as responsive as gas and as convenient as electric.
26
house& home | D e c e m b e r 2 0 1 1 | h o u s e a n d h o m e o n l i n e . com