From the Show Floor to Your Kitchen and Bath
I just returned from my first KBIS - Kitchen & Bath Industry Show. It’s a trade show where over 600 companies exhibit their latest and greatest products for kitchen and bath professionals. In addition to all the vendors, there are design workshops you can attend which are one of my favorite parts. Being a solo designer can feel isolating, so I love listening to others talk about their experiences with clients, contractors and vendors.
Some of my favorite things were alternatives to custom bathroom cabinetry. Ready-made vanities have been around a long time, but these were so much more. One company offered styles with chargers under the counter so you can set your device right on top. They also had an under-counter option with an additional electrical outlet so you can keep your hair dryer plugged in all the time. Kohler’s version had a pull-out just for hair tools. Tech, but you don’t see it!
Another reason I love incorporating these types of vanities is that many come with a countertop and sink. Plus, they have a furniture feel to them with unique door designs, finishes and leg styles. The drawback to ready-made options is they only come in specific sizes - usually 30”, 36”, 48” and 72”.
A detail I saw everywhere was this pretty grooved design. It was on faucets, light fixtures and cabinet hardware. A simple but special touch! Another strong trend was wood accents on plumbing fixtures. Brizo’s Frank Lloyd Wright Collection uses teak so it will hold up to moisture. And if you can’t tell, brass is still going strong, and polished nickel seems to be the favorite for those wanting a classic look.
At the end of day two, I had the privilege of touring Kohler’s amazing booth. My sales rep was so sweet and knew so much about what she was selling. I was most impressed by their new line of home saunas. In 2024, they purchased KLAFS to strengthen their position in the home health space, which is growing stronger every year. More people want to experience wellness at home. That can be as simple as a home gym to a freestanding sauna next to your cold plunge pool. There’s something for everyone!
I toured both of Kohler’s sauna options. The wood inside was beautiful and made to last. They offer multiple sizes and expert installation, which you know is important if you don’t live in a large city. Look at this home setup from their website! Can you imagine?
And if you don’t have room inside, they offer an outdoor version. Here’s one they had set up at the show. How cute would this be in your backyard? Both the door and control panel can be locked to keep your kids out! Click on the image below to see all the details.
I want to end this post with my favorite find of the show - the Aquifer 4-in-1 beverage faucet. This one faucet will provide you with room temp, chilled, near boiling and sparkling water at the touch of a button. It can be mounted next to your kitchen sink, on its own with a bar sink or by an oversized drain like they had at the show. It connects to a small under-counter system. It’s not cheap, but anything new and fun never is. Here’s the video I took and you can hear my true amazement at the end!
Trips like this always remind me why I love what I do. I cannot wait to start using some of these ideas and products in my designs. If a kitchen or bath update is on your mind, let’s talk.