January | February 2024

COLOR TRENDS • 54

Personal
Expression
2024 FORECAST • 44

Cautious Optimism
DESIGN TRENDS • 50

Designers’ Personal Spaces

KBIS PREVIEW • 74

Product Highlights
KitchenBathDesign.com
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CONTENTS VOLUME 42 • NUMBER 1 • JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2024

Photo: Nicole Larson Photography

Photo: Janis Nicolay Photography

54

Photo: Kim Lindsey Photography

Photo: Tony Soluri

50 34 38

44 MARKET FORECAST
DEPARTMENTS COLUMNS

Guarded Optimism 9 Editorial 26 Digital Marketing Strategies

Kitchen and bath designers are cautious yet optimistic about 2024, 10 Market Pulse by Denise Grothouse
forecasting modest revenue gains amid a range of challenges. 12 Barometers 28 Selling Design
14 Consumer Buying Trends by Jan Neiges, CMKBD
50 KITCHEN DESIGN 16 Industry Update

Designing for Designers 30 Trend Spotting

34 Project Case Study
When a designer creates a kitchen for their own home, imagination
and creativity can soar beyond the ordinary. 38 Design Spotlight
86 New Products
54 COLOR TRENDS 88 Product Index
89 Advertiser Index
Color Makes it Personal 90 Transformations
Homeowners seem ready to express themselves, and color is one
way they are accomplishing that goal.

62 DPHA AWARDS
January | February 2024 ON THE COVER

Luxury Leaders Jamie Banfield, principal designer,

Jamie Banfield Design in Port Moody,
KBDN highlights the 2023 winners of the Decorative Plumbing & BC, Canada, replaced a previously
Hardware Association’s Product of the Year Awards. white interior with a more dramatic
and personal palette in this kitchen
68 PRODUCT TREND REPORT renovation.
Read more…p. 54
Stylish Workstations Photo: Janis Nicolay Photography

Kitchen sink and faucet trends center around highly functional and
visually pleasing elements. COLOR TRENDS • 54

Personal
Expression
74 KBIS PRODUCTS
2024 FORECAST • 44

Cautious Optimism
DESIGN TRENDS • 50

Prolific Products
Designers’ Personal Spaces
KBIS PREVIEW • 74

Product Highlights
KitchenBathDesign.com

KBDN offers a look at the new and trending products that will be
among the highlights at the 2024 Kitchen & Bath Industry Show.

January | February 2024 • KitchenBathDesign.com 7

SHE WASN’T always ON TIME.

B U T S H E A LWAY S M A D E A N entrance.

THE MODERN GODDESS

FEATURING THE ODIN® BATH COLLECTION
 EDITORIAL

223 WEST ERIE, SUITE 3SW

ELIOT SEFRIN
PUBLISHER EMERITUS CHICAGO, IL 60654
NKBA HALL OF FAME INDUCTEE, 2008 (847) 440-3000

Paying Your People in 2024

Like us: Facebook.com/
KitchenBathDesignNews

IT IS, BY most accounts, the single greatest challenge
across the kitchen and bath market spectrum – hiring
and retaining a workforce that is, at once, highly skilled,
performance-driven and committed to their employer’s
long-term success.
That’s why, perhaps more than ever, it’s essential
in 2024 that companies think outside the box when it
comes to implementing compensation strategies aimed
at enhancing productivity, motivating employees, reduc-
ing attrition and recruiting new talent.
The concomitant issues of labor shortages, com-
pensation strategies and employee retention each lie
at the heart of recent nationwide surveys by Kitchen
& Bath Design News and the National Kitchen & Bath
Association, as well as within an American Institute of
Architects’ report that offers key insights into how archi-
tectural firms are addressing employee compensation in
the face of current workplace issues.
“More than ever, there’s a
need to think outside the
box when it comes to hiring,
compensation and retaining
the post-pandemic workforce.”
Indeed, according to both the KBDN and NKBA
surveys, the current dearth of in-house employees, as
well as subcontractors in many key trades, is palpably
impacting kitchen and bath design firms of all sizes,
market niches and specialties – with business owners
scrambling to implement successful strategies for mit-
igating what has become a generational challenge (see
related Forecast 2024 coverage, Page 44).
For example, according to the NKBA, surveyed kitch-
en and bath firms, faced with worker shortages, expect
to raise their hourly wages by 4.9% on average in 2024 –
even as other companies are stepping up their market-
ing and networking efforts to recruit skilled workers,
developing apprenticeship and in-house training
programs, increasing their oversight on scheduling, and
introducing compensation strategies aimed at incentiv-
izing today’s post-pandemic workforce.
According to the AIA, while recent compensation
gains have failed in most cases to keep pace with cost-
of-living increases, there has been a significant increase
in architectural firms offering innovative “quality-of-life”
benefits such as casual dress policies, child- and
Follow us on X:
@KBDN
pet-friendly offices, flexible scheduling and similar new-
age perks. Join the discussion:
LinkedIn.com/groups/7023676
A sizable percentage of AIA-member firms also report
creating a better pipeline to part-time employment for
Follow us on Instagram:
students, while addressing gender and racial pay gaps, @kbdn_sola
helping their workforce navigate childcare and other
family needs, and offering salary premiums based on
PUBLISHER
professional accreditation. Architectural firms, like others
Paul DeGrandis
across America, are also grappling with the continued
evolution to a hybrid workplace, in which a vast majority PUBLISHER EMERITUS
of employees wish to continue working at least part-time Eliot Sefrin
from home.
In short, the age-old way of compensating work- EDITOR
ers – through base salary and common benefits such as Anita Shaw
healthcare coverage and paid time off – is rapidly morphing SENIOR EDITOR
in the face of heightened competition for fewer workers, Autumn McGarr
a cultural shift in Americans’ attitude toward work, and a
vicious cycle of employee turnover and ennui. GROUP EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
There are myriad compensation models, and an Patrick O’Toole
equally wide range of factors, to consider as companies at-
tempt to navigate today’s challenging workplace realities –
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Kim Berndtson
from simple hourly compensation for entry-level positions
to variable pay programs featuring performance-based
Jamie Gold, CKD, CAPS
Elizabeth Richards
commissions, incentive bonuses and profit sharing for
senior-level personnel. Companies must also consider COLUMNISTS
what kinds of benefits – for example, health insurance, Tom Cohn
retirement incentives, flexible work hours, subsidized Denise Grothouse
Dan Luck
transportation, and tuition reimbursement, among other
perks – are most appealing to their workforce’s specific Jan Neiges, CMKBD
Diane Plesset, CMKBD, CAPS, NCIDQ
demographics.
It’s up to corporate management to research current ART DIRECTOR
and emerging industry trends, conduct competitive Cory Ottenwess
benchmarking, define pay grades based on job require-
ments and experience, and implement a compensation ART DIRECTOR
strategy that aligns with their company’s corporate mis- Bill Murphy
sion, helps define its culture and reputation, and allows
AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT
employees to feel valued, motivated and rewarded for
& LIST RENTAL
their efforts. Mike Serino
Addressing workplace issues will doubtless require
design firms and other companies to implement flexible DIGITAL PROGRAMS MANAGER
and creative new strategies for recruiting, attracting and Tim Steingraber
retaining qualified talent, boosting morale and setting
PROJECTS MANAGER
themselves apart from their competitors.
Heidi Riedl
Deciding how to compensate their people should be a
top priority for business leaders across the kitchen and bath KBDN SUBSCRIPTIONS
industry, both in 2024 and for the foreseeable future. ▪ (866) 932-5904
kbdn@omeda.com
Copyright © 2023 by SOLA Group Inc.
All rights reserved. No part of this
magazine may be produced in any form,
including electronically, without written
permission from the publisher of
Kitchen & Bath Design News.

January | February 2024 • KitchenBathDesign.com

 MARKET PULSE READERS’ OPINIONS ON INDUSTRY-RELATED ISSUES
Industry Pros Look to the Year Ahead
What are your trend predictions
for 2024? What finishes and products
are you anticipating?
“PEOPLE ARE CONTINUING to
choose light woods mixed with painted or
instead of painted finishes. They’ve had
enough of the gray trends – our clients are
embracing warmth. Gold and black continue
to be very hot finishes for hardware, plumb-
ing and light fixtures. I think we will start
seeing changes in appliance color choices,
away from all stainless.”
Julie Deuble
Sierra Unlimited Construction
Buffalo, NY
“WE’RE SEEING MORE natural stone
countertops like quartzite and dolomite, and
white shaker cabinets are being replaced by
more natural wood tones and small details
in doors. Dark and moody and soft and
moody themes are also emerging. No more
subway tiles, but instead more color, depth
and geometric shapes for backsplashes. More
functional kitchens than fancy showroom
kitchens.”
Marty Ness-White, owner/designer
Kitchen Solvers of Spring Hill
Chapel Hill, TN
“I ANTICIPATE THE slab European
doors to continue to rise in popularity along
with the newest slim shaker look. Its simple,
clean lines, easy to maintain and appeals
to all age groups. Gold will continue to be
the most requested finish while the people
who don’t want to follow the absolute latest
in trends will stick with shaker-style cabin-
etry and nickel hardware as a more neutral
accessory. Colors are definitely gaining
traction, [as well as] light woods for accents
and islands. The mix of more than one color
cabinet will hold strong. I see white appli-
ances coming back into favor and colored
appliances for higher budgets. People are
growing tired of stainless. Farm sinks will
continue in popularity. Appliances with mul-
tiple cooking options are changing the game
for whether or not people want or need wall
ovens. Moving a microwave anywhere other
than over the range or cooktop will still be
the most requested kitchen design change.
Removing tubs to make way for larger walk-
in and aging-in-place showers will continue
to dominate bathroom remodeling.”
Michelle Slobodzian, kitchen & bath designer
Tile Outlets of America
Fort Myers, FL
10 Kitchen & Bath Design News • January | February 2024
“ALL THINGS BOLD! Out with the neu-
trals, and in with bold unique selections!”
Karla Galvan, project manager
Sisters Interiors
Brownville, TX
“MORE CLIENTS WANTING cabi-
nets painted or refinished rather than full on
replacement. More bidet installs; less gold
hardware and more black hardware. The
release of Sherwin Williams Gallery Series
Products and the newer Graco Cordless Paint
Sprayers is going to increase the drive to
refinish more cabinets.”
Jay Ellison, owner
A&J Home Renovation and Repair LLC
Elizabethtown, PA
“I SEE THE ‘makers’ trend continuing –
incorporating local companies and craftsmen,
creating that truly personal space. The trend
will be that trends – the mass produced – are
out. Each space and homeowner will dictate
the final results, not a magazine. I see the
trend of incorporating more personal objects
and furniture.”
Trudi Smith, owner/principal designer
Trudi Smith Designs LLC
Walworth, NY
“WE’LL BE SEEING more whole house,
high dollar projects – remodels and new
build. Fewer small kitchen (10"x10") and sin-
gle bath renovations.”
Katherine Mingucci, owner & designer
KM Design
Shawnee, KS
“2024 IS GOING to be a wild ride!
I’m telling you, the market is set to keep on
thriving as homeowners finally make up their
minds to stick it out in their properties for the
long haul. And you know what that means?
Brace yourselves for a shortage of available
homes in the market and a surge in kitchen
renovations!
Get ready for the newest trend that’ll
sweep you off your feet – the mixed col-
or kitchen. Picture this: gorgeous natural
wood tones combined with some vibrant,
eye-catching cabinets. It’s all about creating
that Bohemian interior vibe that homeown-
ers are absolutely head over heels for right
now. I mean, who can resist the allure of a
kitchen that effortlessly blends those warm,
earthy wood tones with a burst of personality
through colored cabinets? It’s like bringing a
touch of nature indoors while flaunting your
own unique style. And let me tell you, this
trend is going to be all the rage in 2024.
So folks, mark my words, 2024 is going to
be a thrilling and transformative year for the
housing market. With homeowners opting
for the long-term play, we’ll witness a serious
crunch in available properties, leaving people
with no choice but to delve into exciting kitch-
en renovations. And what better way to cap-
ture that perfect blend of nature and creativity
than through the mesmerizing mixed color
kitchen trend? Get ready, because it’s going to
be a Bohemian dream come true!”
Edward Rodriguez, CEO
Granite Brothers
Worcester, MA
“INCREASE IN HONED and textured
finishes in cabinetry, counters, tile and furni-
ture as well as wall applications.”
Dawn Zarrillo
Custom Design Kitchens, Inc.
Duanesburg, NY
“I FEEL THAT trend predictions vary by
age groups.
1. Overall I do feel that quality over quan-
tity seems to be a trend for my clients.
Let’s have the best materials and design
but maybe not with an oversized ad-
dition. Purchasing items that last over
fast home fashion is another ask that
goes back to quality over quantity.
2. In appliances, steam, steam and
more steam cooking along with a
rise in sous vide cooking for healthy
restaurant quality enhanced with
smart cooking convenience.
3. Black onyx finishes in metals, a com-
bination of matte and polished fin-
ishes, and more wood accents.
4. Touchless everything for the fittings along
with voice-controlled systems for all ages.
5. More wellness applications that are afford-
able and easier to install like steam show-
ers, chromatherapy and aromatherapy for
bathrooms beyond the principal bath.
6. More natural finishes and materi-
als. The rise of quartzites and nat-
ural stone. Low VOC and smaller
carbon footprint products.”
Sharon L. Sherman, founder & owner
Thyme & Place Design LLC
Wyckoff, NJ
WHAT DO YOU THINK? Email your feedback,
contact information and the subject, ‘Market Pulse’
with your message to Autumn@SOLAbrands.com
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BAROMETERS A LOOK AT KEY STATISTICS & TRENDS SHAPING THE INDUSTRY

Uptick Seen for 2024 Housing Market

CONDITIONS IN THE nation’s housing
market are expected to gradually improve as
2024 unfolds, even as residential remodeling
sees a gradual softening in the months ahead,
analysts and trade associations are predicating
(see related Forecast 2024 coverage, Page 44).
Among the key statistics and forecasts released
in recent weeks by government agencies,
research firms and industry-related trade asso-
ciations were the following:
HOUSING STARTS & NEW-HOME SALES
High mortgage rates continue to hammer build-
er confidence, although recent economic data
suggest that housing conditions may improve in
the coming months, the National Association of
Home Builders said. Given the lack of exist-
ing-home inventory, anticipated lower mortgage
rates “will price-in housing demand and likely
set the stage for improved builder views of mar-
ket conditions,” said Robert Dietz, chief econ-
omist for the Washington, DC-based NAHB,
which reported that rising mortgage rates,
elevated construction costs and limited existing
inventory helped push housing affordability in
the third quarter of 2023 to its lowest level in
more than a decade. The NAHB is forecasting
approximately a 5% increase for single-family
starts in 2024, as financial conditions ease in
the coming months. “Rising mortgage rates
have been the key cause of declining housing
affordability conditions,” said Dietz, noting that
the pace of new-home sales was up markedly
in 2023, “as many homeowners with attractive
mortgage rates are electing to stay put rather
than purchase a move-up home.”
EXISTING-HOME SALES
Elevated mortgage rates, high home prices
and limited housing inventory “are making
the dream of homeownership difficult for
Americans,” although existing-home sales
are projected to rise by 15% in 2024, the chief
THE PROJECTED 2024 DECLINE IN U.S. REMODELING ACTIVITY
Projected Annual Spending in Billions of Dollars & Moving Rate of Change
$470 $484 $489 $479
$500 $464 $469 $457 $454 20%
$443 $452
$414
$400 15%
10%
$300
5%
$200
0%
$100 -5%
0 -10%
Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3
2022 2023 2024
Annual spending for improvements and repairs to owner-occupied homes is expected to decline at a moderate rate throughout 2024,
as persistent high interest rates, limited inventory and homeowner concerns continue to weigh on the residential-remodeling market. As
reflected above, annual owner expenditures for home updates and maintenance will decline by 7.7% through the third quarter of this year,
declining from its third-quarter 2023 level of $489 billion to $452 billion.
Source: Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University
economist for the National Association of to decline at a moderate rate throughout
Realtors said. Speaking at a meeting of the 2024, as persistent high interest rates, limited
Washington, DC-based NAR in Anaheim, CA, inventory, and homeowner concerns contin-
Lawrence Yun noted that “high mortgage rates ue to weigh on the residential-remodeling
and low inventory dominated” the housing market (see graph, above right). According to
market in 2023, with resales projected to decline the latest Leading Indicator of Remodeling
by 18%, compounding a 17% reduction in 2022. Activity (LIRA), released late last year by the
“Lack of inventory is providing support for high Remodeling Futures Program at the Joint
prices, but it’s also making it difficult for first- Center for Housing Studies of Harvard
time buyers to enter the housing market, Yun University, annual owner expenditures for
said, adding that 30-year fixed mortgage rates home updates and maintenance will decline
“have likely crested.” Yun forecasted that interest by 7.7% from its third-quarter 2023 level of
rates will drop to between 6-7% by the spring, $489 billion to $452 billion over the coming
and said he anticipates that more existing-home four quarters. “While the rate of decline should
sellers will enter the resale market this year. decelerate significantly in the second part
of the year, 2024 is shaping up to be a chal-
RESIDENTIAL REMODELING lenging year for home remodeling,” reported
Annual spending for improvements and Abbe Will, associate project director of the
repairs to owner-occupied homes is expected Remodeling Futures Program. ▪

MARKET ANALYSIS

Second-Half 2024 Market Rebound Forecast by NKBA

BETHLEHEM, PA — Despite a third-quarter
slowdown 2023 in business, kitchen and bath
industry professionals are forecasting a rebound
in the second half of 2024, according to the latest
in a quarterly series of market indexes released
by the National Kitchen & Bath Association.
The NKBA’s Q3 2023 Kitchen & Bath
Market Index (KBMI) said that 44% of surveyed
kitchen and bath firms, and 49% of manufac-
turers, expect sales revenue to increase in 2024,
with most companies expecting any significant
pickup to occur in the second half of the year.
According to the NKBA, most industry
professionals were experiencing “difficult
market conditions” in the latter part of 2023,
“as consumers pull back due to inflation and
higher interest rates (leading) to a decrease in
project leads and completions, as well as a rise
in postponements and cancellations.”
Among other results from the latest KBMI:
• Price increases are slowing down, and
supply chain challenges have nearly van-
ished. Year-over-year price increases in Q3
2023 were on par with inflation growth
(3.6%), and kitchen/bath firms report that
they will increase their prices by only 1.7%
through Q1 2024. Along with more stable
pricing, supply chain challenges have nearly
vanished.
• Gross margins are under pressure. This is,
in part, due to kitchen and bath profession-
als “getting hit with further material costs”
while sales slow. Retail sales declined by an
average 1.3% YOY, even as vendors passed
on markups of 8% or more for multiple
product categories, including countertops,
lighting, cabinets, vanities, refrigerators,
hardware, dishwashers and tile, the NKBA
said, adding that rising labor costs also chal-
lenge margins. About 26% of firms reported
lower gross margins compared to a year
ago, the association added. ▪

12 Kitchen & Bath Design News • January | February 2024

ROOMS FULL OF JOY.

IT’S ALL IN
HETTICH

See what we’re all about.

www.hettich.com

We always look at spaces from the perspective of those who live in them. This lets us
develop individually tailored solutions that give real pleasure. People love spaces that
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CONSUMER BUYING TRENDS DEMOGRAPHICS & BUYING PATTERNS FOR THE HOME

PUBLISHING

Photo: Courtesy of Scavolini

The Diesel Get Together kitchen
project from Scavolini showcases
some of the trends in the NKBA’s
2024 Kitchen Trends Report,
including minimalistic design,
SOLA GROUP, INC.
European-style flat-panel cabine-
223 WEST ERIE, SUITE 3SW
try and efficient storage spaces.
CHICAGO, IL 60654
(847) 440-3000
Paul DeGrandis
Publisher, ext. 100
Paul@SOLAbrands.com
Eliot Sefrin
Publisher Emeritus, ext. 113
Eliot@SOLAbrands.com

SALES
WEST
Paul DeGrandis
Ext. 100
Paul@SOLAbrands.com
NORTHEAST
Dan Miklosz
Ext. 118
DanM@SOLAbrands.com
SOUTHEAST
Dan Agostinacchio
Ext. 101

Focus on Islands Termed Top Design Trend Dan@SOLAbrands.com

BETHLEHEM, PA — An expanded focus is being placed on
“hard-working” kitchen islands that serve as everything from
a gathering place and storage to a cooking, prepping and en-
tertaining space, according to an annual report on key design
trends issued by the National Kitchen & Bath Association.
The NKBA recently issued its 2024 Kitchen Trends Report,
an annual research initiative that spotlights the leading antic-
ipated trends in kitchen design over the next three years.
According to the report’s findings, more than 57% of sur-
veyed designers say their clients prefer an eat-in kitchen area
instead of a formal dining room, while 48% identified large
islands as a top priority for serving and dining. In addition, by
eliminating noisy appliances and banging cabinet doors, de-
signers are making the kitchen “more suitable for everything
from entertaining and eating to work and learning,” the NKBA
said, adding that 65% of surveyed designers said their clients
want ultra-quiet dishwashers, and 41% are ditching noisy trash
compactors in favor of standard pull-out receptacles.
Among the other leading takeaways from the report:
• Environmentally Conscious. Sustainability continues to
be top-of-mind for both designers and homeowners, with
a focus on selecting long-lasting products to reduce the
need for replacement, donating old cabinets and appli-
ances for reuse, allocating kitchen storage for recycling,
and creating kitchen storage for use in composting.
• Well-Curated Lighting. In addition to incorporating
abundant natural light into their kitchen designs, designers
say they’re using multiple layers of lighting to support
different functions: ambient lighting to create various
moods (85%), decorative statement lighting to showcase
design elements (80%), and nighttime lighting for safety
and aesthetics (69%). Light sensing, motion sensing, voice
activation and programmable control options all play a key
role in enhancing the functionality of kitchen lighting.
MIDWEST
Zach Stenberg
• A Place for Wellness and Nutrition. Current kitchen de- Ext. 115
sign is focused on nutrition and the healthy eating habits Zach@SOLAbrands.com
of homeowners. Seventy-eight percent of designers say
PRODUCT & LITERATURE
homeowners want more refrigeration space with better SHOWCASE/CLASSIFIED ADS
flexibility to accommodate healthy lifestyles, and 68% Mike Serino
want appliances with integrated cooking functions like Ext. 102
air frying and steam cooking. Mike@SOLAbrands.com
• Minimalistic Designs. Kitchens with minimalistic EDITORIAL
designs that are free of clutter and easy to maintain will
Anita Shaw
be popular in the next two to three years. Streamlined
Editor, ext. 112
kitchen designs will include contemporary, modern, Anita@SOLAbrands.com
mid-century and Scandinavian influences of simplicity.
Autumn McGarr
Elements that will blend seamlessly or invisibly into the
Senior Editor, ext. 104
rest of the kitchen will include refrigeration appliances,
Autumn@SOLAbrands.com
flooring, sinks and lighting, among others.
• Cabinet choices. Modern, European flat-panel designs
LIST RENTAL
that are free of hardware with push-to-open technology Mike Serino
will be the most in-demand. Hidden electrical outlets and Ext. 102
kitchen appliances, as well as charging station solutions Mike@SOLAbrands.com
within cabinets, will also add to minimalistic designs.
SUBSCRIPTIONS
• Uncomplicated cooking and cleaning. Easy-to-clean Kitchen & Bath Design News
countertops using heat-tolerant and stain-resistant Circulation Dept.
materials will be in demand. Induction cooktops integrat- P.O. Box 3007
Northbrook, IL 60065-3007
ed into these surfaces will also become more common,
(866) 932-5904
providing a polished, coordinated look. Countertops will
kbdn@omeda.com
also be extended into the backsplash so they flow into the
design and can be cleaned easily. KitchenBathDesign.com
• Absence of clutter. Expect to see more solutions to keep
clutter hidden or off countertops, like pantries with
more space, islands with storage, appliance drawers and
charging areas, and floor-to-ceiling cabinetry, as well as
cabinets with drawer dividers and partitions. ▪

14 Kitchen & Bath Design News • January | February 2024

INDUSTRY UPDATE NOTEWORTHY DEVELOPMENTS IMPACTING THE KITCHEN AND BATH MARKET

Rutt Revamps, Commits to Top Cabinet Line

NEW HOLLAND, PA — Rutt Quality Cabinetry, LLC,
rumored in recent months to be either on the verge of
closure, purchased by outside interests, or merged with
sister company Wood-Mode LLC, has instead down-
sized, revamped its internal operations, and “renewed
its commitment” to delivering its top-performing line of
high-end custom cabinetry, the company announced.
“Whatever rumors were spread are false,” said Bill
French, owner of both Rutt and Wood-Mode. “Wood-
Mode and Rutt are separate companies and will continue
to have separate management, sales and marketing. The
(Rutt) factory did not miss a day of production, (and)
our artisans are more committed than ever to provide
the highest quality, custom crafted cabinetry for our
discerning customers.”
French’s comments were prompted in part by recent
uncertainty in the face of Rutt’s internal restructuring,
particularly among the company’s network of kitchen
and bath dealers, factory employees and sales reps,
many of whom have been associated with the 70+-year-
old custom cabinet manufacturer for decades.
According to French, who spoke exclusively to Kitch-
en & Bath Design News, management, upon considering
various options, has decided to discontinue producing
Rutt’s “Regency” line of cabinetry, which French said was
unprofitable, and will concentrate exclusively on its high-
end “Classic” line. Rutt, said French, will retain about 30
of the company’s “most skilled and experienced” em-
ployees at its New Holland, PA factory. Rutt had 80+
employees prior to the company’s reorganization.
“Rutt will engineer, produce and finish its cabinets in-
house,” said French. “Customers will continue to receive
the artistic doors, drawers and custom finishes we’re
known for, and anything that’s core to the Rutt brand
and quality will continue to be made in our factory in
New Holland.” Founded in 1951 as Rutt Handcrafted Cabinetry, Rutt
Rutt, he said, has “encouraged” dealers of Regency was previously owned by Wellborn Cabinet, Inc., which
cabinets to purchase Wood-Mode Brookhaven cabinets sold the company in 2018 to private-equity firm Birch
instead, “since Wood-Mode is very efficient in produc- Holdings of PA. French, a Pennsylvania businessman
ing high-quality cabinets which are sold at roughly the with diverse holdings, purchased the company in 2022,
same price point as Rutt Regency. Similar or identical some three years after acquiring the assets of the former
doors and finishes that Rutt produced in Regency will be Wood-Mode Inc.
available from Wood-Mode to satisfy Regency clients,” “We are honored to continue the tradition of quality
French noted. started by Phares Rutt,” French said. “Rutt Quality Cab-
In certain territories, sales previously handled by Rutt inetry’s dedication to its team, business partners, and
reps will be handled by the company’s customer service customers is stronger than ever.
and engineering department, according to French. When “Rutt,” he added, “is excited to provide beautiful,
sales require, Rutt will add production capacity, he added. handcrafted cabinetry now and into the future.”

Crossville Assets Acquired by

WestEdge Design Fair Returns to CA Venue
SANTA MONICA, CA — WestEdge Design Fair, a leading West Coast design and
product exposition, returned to Santa Monica’s Barker Hangar for the first time
since 2019, featuring a curated selection of domestic and international manufac-
turers and independent design brands, event sponsors announced.
Celebrating its eighth-annual year, and relaunching post-pandemic, the Fair
welcomed more than 175 exhibiting brands and more than 8,400 residential and
commercial interior designers, architects, builders, developers and others, sponsors
said. In addition to product exhibits, more than 50 thought leaders shared their
expertise at the November 2023 event, organizers added.
“It was an honor to bring WestEdge Design Fair back to Santa Monica following
the pandemic,” said WestEdge co-founder Megan Reilly, adding that the three-day
design fair has experienced “steady growth” since its debut in 2019.
“We’re delighted that we were able to bring the best of the best in interior design
together, and appreciate all the support from the design community both in Los
Angeles and beyond,” Reilly said.
Flooring Supplier AHF Products
MOUNTVILLE, PA — AHF Products, a leading manufacturer of hard surface
flooring in North America, has purchased assets of Crossville, Inc. from the Cur-
ran Group, a family-owned, privately-held company, the company announced.
The acquisition, said the company, “catapults AHF into an industry-leading
position in the fast-growing tile sector, with a comprehensive line of porcelain,
ceramic, stone and accessories for both residential and commercial applications
in interior and exterior floors, walls and countertops.”
With 15 brands and dozens of product collections spanning hardwood, vinyl,
laminate and now tile, AHF “has added to its stable of product offerings in the
hard surface category,” the company added.
The Tennessee-based Crossville “is one of the most highly regarded brands
in commercial and residential tile products, with widespread distribution, pre-
mium products and a blue-chip customer base,” said AHF President & CEO
Brian Carson. “Adding a well-known and trusted brand like Crossville is a terrific
complement to our legacy brands, which include Bruce and Armstrong Flooring,
(and) will strengthen our domestic footprint and grow our U.S. capabilities,”
Carson observed.
With five acquisitions in less than five years, the Mountville, PA-based AHF has
significantly increased its product and service offerings for both the residential
and commercial markets, and currently operates 13 facilities – 12 in the U.S. and
one in Cambodia – and has grown to over 3,000 employees. AHF previously ac-
quired LM Flooring in 2019, followed by the Parterre and American OEM brands
in 2021, and then Armstrong Flooring in 2022.
Re-Bath Expands Franchise Outreach
MOBILE, AL — Bathroom remodeling franchise firm Re-Bath has announced a
two-territory agreement for Mississippi and Alabama, covering Biloxi, Gulfport,
Hattiesburg and Laurel, MS, along with a second territory in Mobile, AL.
“Launching our first locations in Mississippi along with expanding our Alabama
reach demonstrates our commitment to growth and market development,” said
Sharon Villegas, chief revenue officer of Re-Bath.

16 Kitchen & Bath Design News • January | February 2024

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The installers said make it dependable.
The project managers said make it affordable.
So, who’d we listen to? All of them.

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INDUSTRY UPDATE NOTEWORTHY DEVELOPMENTS IMPACTING THE KITCHEN AND BATH MARKET
Photo: Christoph Philadelphia
Gaggenau’s new Miami flagship showroom blends modern loft design with South
Florida’s Art Deco heritage.
Gaggenau Opens Flagship Showroom
In Miami Design District
MIAMI, FL — Gaggenau, the Germany-based manufacturer of professional-grade
kitchen appliances, has opened a flagship showroom in Miami, the company
announced.
Located in the Miami Design District, the showroom “offers a serene respite for
culinary enthusiasts, architects and designers to be inspired by the intersection of
innovative art, design and cuisine,” the company said.
“The flagship seamlessly blends modern loft design with South Florida’s Art
Deco heritage, embodying Gaggenau’s timeless elegance,” said Heather Ryan, head
of Gaggenau North America. “The showroom makes you feel that you are entering
a friend’s well-appointed home, discreetly showcasing our appliances within a
residential setting, avoiding the typical commercial store ambience,” Ryan added.
In addition to Miami, Gaggenau’s new showroom concept has debuted in recent
openings in Vancouver, Toronto and Sydney. The showrooms join over 60 flagships
and showrooms in major cities worldwide, company officials noted.
Kohler Co. Energy Unit Established
As Separate Business
KOHLER, WI — Kohler Co., in a move aimed at “deepening the focus and invest-
ment in its kitchen & bath and hospitality businesses,” has announced a decision
to establish Kohler Energy as a separate, independent business.
The Kohler, WI-based plumbing products manufacturer, whose kitchen/bath-
related holdings include Ann Sacks, Kallista, Robern, and Jacob Delafon, termed
the decision “a bold and strategic move for the future of our company.”
Platinum Equity has been engaged as a majority investment partner in the busi-
ness, while Kohler Co. will continue to stay invested in the energy business following
the closing of the transaction.
“The timing is right, due to the strength of the energy business, which is driven
by world-class products manufactured and sold by highly skilled associates,” said
David Kohler, Chair and CEO of Kohler Co. “I look forward to supporting the En-
ergy business through our continued investment along with my role on the board
following the closing.” Brian Melka, group president/Kohler Energy, will serve as
CEO of the Energy business.
Kohler Energy for decades has provided mission power solutions to homes, busi-
nesses and equipment through a portfolio of backup and prime power equipment,
traditional and electrified powertrain technologies, and home energy solutions.
Platinum Equity is a global investment firm with approximately $47 billion of assets
under management.
While Kohler Co. and Platinum Equity must complete several milestones and
legal requirements, the transaction is expected to close in the first half of 2024,
the company said. Until then, Kohler Co. will operate as one company, corporate
officials added.
18 Kitchen & Bath Design News • January | February 2024
Product Distributor IDG Acquired
By The Home Depot
ATLANTA — The Home Depot, the nation’s largest home-improvement retailer,
has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire International Designs Group
(IDG), a platform company that owns and operates Construction Resources and
other design-oriented subsidiaries, the companies announced.
Construction Resources is a leading distributor of surfaces, appliances and
architectural specialty products for professional contractors focused on remod-
eling, residential home building and multi-family construction, including work in
the kitchen and bath sector.
The transaction, whose terms were not disclosed, represents a $475-billion
market, with The Home Depot “focused on capturing a larger share by building
capabilities to serve pros of all sizes, from (those) working on smaller jobs to
larger, more complex projects,” corporate officials said. The Home Depot agreed
to acquire IDG from Mill Point Capital LLC, a private-equity firm focused on invest-
ments in the business services, industrials and IT-services sectors. The acquisition
was expected to close by the end of 2023, officials added.
“The acquisition combines Construction Resources’ expertise in cross-
category professional projects with The Home Depot’s scale, product authority
and distribution expertise,” the companies said. “With showrooms across the
East Coast and Southeast, Construction Resources allows The Home Depot to
expand the capabilities it offers pro customers, many of whom rely on showrooms
as part of their consultative approach to complex renovation and remodel jobs.”
“Almost all pros interact with The Home Depot, but their level of engagement
varies based on the complexity of their projects,” said Ted Decker, CEO of the
Atlanta-based The Home Depot, which operates some 2,300 retail stores in all
50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, 10
Canadian provinces and Mexico, according to the company.
“We’re building capabilities to ensure we can serve all pros across all their
project needs – whether we’re the last stop on the way to the jobsite or their
first consideration when building a project design,” Decker added. “Construction
Resources helps us accelerate our pro-growth opportunity with a successful
showroom model, an exceptional sales force, and proven, long-term relationships
with renovator, remodeler and residential new-construction pros.”
ICFF Unveils ‘New Vision’ for 2024 Event
NEW YORK — In 2024, the International
Contemporary Furniture Fair (ICFF) will cel-
ebrate its 35th anniversary and unveil “an
even bolder approach to supporting design
companies and their success throughout the
year,” show officials said.
ICFF officials announced that they are re-
shaping the core of the brand “to remain the
leading contemporary design fair in North
America” by solidifying ICFF’s role as a “busi-
ness accelerator and the entry point into the
U.S. market for international brands.”
ICFF brings together a diverse groups of design professionals, architects, interior
designers and design enthusiasts, and attracts a wide range of potential buyers
due to its proximity to numerous design studios, architecture firms, galleries and
showrooms.
The three-day 2024 event will take place May 19-21, 2024, at the Jacob K. Javits
Convention Center in New York.
“Given ICFF’s 35-year history, we felt it was time to redefine and rebrand ICFF to
solidify, clarify and amplify our design messaging and content, (while) designing
the fair to be more curated, accessible and user-friendly,” said ICFF Brand Directors
Odile Hainaut and Claire Pijoulat.
“The show floor will include more spaces to explore, lounge, network and have
conversations,” sponsors noted, adding that new dedicated areas have been created
for complementary products such as materials, outdoor living, and kitchen and bath.
Registration for the event will be open in January. Information can be obtained
by visiting www.icff.com.
 NOTEWORTHY DEVELOPMENTS IMPACTING THE KITCHEN AND BATH MARKET INDUSTRY UPDATE

Daltile, Marazzi Open Boise Showroom KCMA Launches Design Awards Program
BOISE, ID — Ceramic tile brands Daltile and Marazzi have opened a new showroom RESTON, VA — A new awards program, launched by the Kitchen Cabinet Man-
on Boise’s “Tile Mile,” the partner companies announced. ufacturers Association, is aimed at recognizing outstanding kitchen design while
The new 12,000-sq.-ft. showroom, which opened in October, features a wide promoting public interest in cabinet excellence.
range of tile, countertop and stone products, including those with kitchen and bath The Reston, VA-based KCMA launched its first-ever annual competition, tar-
applications, corporate officials said. geted at focusing attention on the “quality of the cabinet environment” within
“Boise is a wonderful place to live and work – rich with natural beauty, recre- kitchens, while highlighting the “important role” that kitchen designers, interior
ational opportunities, arts and culture, as well as thriving residential, downtown designers and architects play in the U.S.
and commercial spaces,” said company spokesperson Desiree Berg. “The interior The best kitchen design, as determined by a panel of judges, will receive
design needs of our Boise resi- roundtrip coach airfare to the KCMA’s 68th Annual Spring Leadership Conference
dential and commercial spaces April 23-25 in Austin, TX, according to the trade association. Also to be awarded
are just as varied as our city’s are a two-night stay at the Omni Barton Creek Resort, $1,000 in cash, and other
attributes, and our new Daltile/ prizes, the KCMA said.
Marazzi products and showroom Kitchen designs completed during the calendar years 2021 through 2023 are
can wonderfully meet myriad de- eligible, while projects must feature KCMA-member cabinets. The deadline for
sign needs.” entries is March 15, 2024. Information is available by visiting www.kcma.org.
“Daltile has designed this
showroom to be an extension of
our professional customers’ busi-
nesses,” added Paij Thorn-Brooks, ISFA Names Executive Director
v.p./marketing for Dal-Tile, LLC, INGOMAR, PA — The International Surface Fabricators Association has named
parent company of the Daltile and Marissa Bankert as its new executive director, the association announced.
Marazzi brands. “We encourage Previously executive director of the Independent Electrical Contractors of Penn-
our local designer, architect and sylvania, Bankert replaces Nancy Busch, who resigned last August, according to
contractor customers to bring the Ingomar, PA-based ISFA, which serves the manufactured surface industry.
their clients to the showroom to “ISFA is positioned to achieve amazing things, and I look forward to building
conduct their meetings.” upon its foundational successes,” Bankert said.

Inspired Design.
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2 0 01 C A R N E G I E AV E N U E S A N TA A N A , C A 9 2 70 5 • 9 4 9 - 417- 5 2 07 • W W W. N E W P O RT B R A S S .C O M
INDUSTRY UPDATE NOTEWORTHY DEVELOPMENTS IMPACTING THE KITCHEN AND BATH MARKET
Women2Women founder and National Kitchen & Bath Association Chief
Strategy Officer and Executive V.P. Suzie Williford (seated second from
left) is surrounded by attendees during the W2W’s recent second annual
conference in Charleston, SC. The conference, sponsored by the NKBA,
brought together women from across the kitchen and bath industry to share
experiences and discuss professional challenges and opportunities.
Caesarstone Opens Design Center
At Charlotte Headquarters
CHARLOTTE, NC — Caesarstone, the Charlotte, NC-based supplier of countertop
surfaces for kitchens, baths and other applications, has opened a new design center
at its North American corporate headquarters here, the company announced.
Caesarstone also announced the imminent opening of a new distribution cen-
ter in New Jersey, to serve as an adjunct to the company’s northeast distribution
hub in Audubon, PA. Both facilities will carry a wide range of materials, including
quartz, porcelain and natural stone, corporate officials said. Full slabs can be viewed
within the design center or directly in the distribution warehouse, officials added.
Announcement of the openings coincided with the rollout of Caesarstone Studio,
a digital platform that provides surfaces planning with an array of information,
tools, solutions and guidelines for architects and designers. The platform includes
in-house support and a suite of tools that facilitate the creative process, from
technical information and planning tips to sample ordering, Caesarstone said.
20 Kitchen & Bath Design News • January | February 2024
2024 Board Members Elected by NKBA
BETHLEHEM, PA — Ken Williams, president & CEO of Caesarstone The Amer-
icas, has been elected Chair of the National Kitchen & Bath Association’s 2024
Board of Directors, succeeding Jan Heck, president & CEO of Miele USA, the
NKBA announced.
Heck, as well as Kristen Elder, v.p./residential builder & showrooms at Fer-
guson Enterprises, completed their four-year terms and left the NKBA Board
of Directors at the end of 2023. Williams assumed his new role effective Jan. 1.
In other posts, NKBA CEO Bill Darcy was named Global President & CEO
of NKBA | KBIS.
In addition to Williams, the NKBA also elected returning board member
Louis Rohl, of The House of ROHL, as vice chair, and returning board member
Kerrie Kelly, founder and CEO + Creative Director of Kerrie Kelly Studio, as
secretary/treasurer. Rohl will be in his fourth and final year on the board; Kelly
will be serving her second year.
New 2024 board members include John Barkhouse, CEO of Cabinetworks
Group, and Nicola Bertazzoni, COO of Bertazzoni Group, Italy & CEO Bertazzoni
North America Inc. Both will serve four-year terms.
Other 2024 board members include Randy Warner, v.p./sales, LG Electron-
ics; Mikael Åkerberg, CEO, nobilia North America; Ken Roberts, president,
Atlas Roofing Corp.; Eduardo Cosentino, executive v.p. Cosentino Group &
CEO, Cosentino America.
Cabinetworks Group Unveils
New Headquarters in Michigan
LIVONIA, MI — Cabinetworks Group, the nation’s largest privately owned cabinet
manufacturer, has marked the opening of its new headquarters in Livonia, MI, the
company announced.
The headquarters, which will house more than 200 corporate employees, will
serves as the hub from which the company will manage 8,000+ employees na-
tionwide, corporate officials said. Cabinetworks Group manufactures more than
15 cabinet brands, including KraftMaid, Medallion, Merillat, Yorktowne and Smart
Cabinetry.
Previously headquartered in Ann Arbor, MI, Cabinetworks Group operations
have grown significantly in recent years through a series of acquisitions, prompting
the company to seek a new corporate hub to centralize its corporate functions while
maintaining its roots in Michigan, company officials said.
“Our new headquarters...represents a fresh perspective, as we join together in
a collaborative environment where people can connect in person, innovate and
live our core values as a strong, unified team,” said John Barkhouse, Cabinetworks
Group CEO. “I’m excited about the future of this business and our company as we
continue to transform and grow.”
Häcker Kitchens Opens Miami Showroom
MIAMI — Häcker Kitchens, the Germany-based manufacturer of upscale kitchen
cabinetry, has unveiled its inaugural North American showroom, a 3,600-sq.-ft.
space in Miami, the company announced.
The flagship showroom marks “a significant milestone” for Häcker Kitchens,
as the 125-year-old company expands its presence outside of European markets
for the first time, corporate officials said.
“Häcker Kitchens is expanding at an accelerated rate, and we are honored to
bring the future of German design to North America,” said Andreas Gommeringer,
president of Häcker Kitchens North America. “Our passion for the art of kitchen
cabinetry is at the heart of everything we do, and we are ecstatic to introduce
this side of the world to the timeless beauty, innovative design and cutting-edge
customization tendered by Häcker Kitchens.”
The flagship showroom features room designs where trade professionals and
homeowners can experience Häcker Kitchens’ living environments, as well as a
full-service design center where clients can explore a wide range of product options,
company officials said.
 causes through the inaugural Cover-
ings Cares program, a new initiative that
serves the tile and stone industry and
the Atlanta local community through a
donation pool of up to $50,000, show
organizers added.
Coverings 2024 registrants will have
the chance to select and support one of
six vetted and deserving charitable or-
ganizations when they register for the
event, including Atlanta Community
Food Bank, Atlanta Habitat for Human-
ity, Ceramic Tile Education Foundation
(CTEF), EARTHDAY.ORG, Gary Sinise
Foundation and Tile Heritage Foundation,
event sponsors said.
Information can be obtained by vis-
iting www.coverings.com.

2023 Award
Winners Named
By DPHA
CHICAGO — The Decorative
Plumbing & Hardware Associa-
tion has named its 2023 DPHA
professional award winners, the
trade group announced.
Honored during the DPHA’s
recent 22nd Annual Conference
and Product Showcase in Chica-
go were the following:
• James J. Babbitt Award
(formerly President’s
Award): Andrew Moss.
• Customer Service
Department of the Year:
The Furniture Guild.
• Manufacturing Professional
of the Year: Anthony Hajjar.
• Representative Agency of
the Year: The Rain Company.
• Representative Professional
of the Year: Kelli Gagnon.
• Showroom Professional of
the Year: Nathanael Chown.
• Showroom of the Year:
Designer Bath by Salem
Plumbing Supply.

Coverings 2024
Opens Event
Registration
ATLANTA — Coverings, the
premier international ceramic tile
and natural stone exhibition and
conference in North America, has
launched the official opening for
event registration for Coverings
2024, scheduled to take place
April 22-25 at the Georgia World
Congress Center in Atlanta.
Tile, stone and design profes-
sionals can now register at no
cost to attend Coverings 2024,
show sponsors said. Early on-
line registration offers several
benefits, including advanced
access to event updates, special
program notifications, exclusive
promotions, introduction to new
product trends and innovations,
and the opportunity to contribute
to one of several philanthropic

January | February 2024 • KitchenBathDesign.com 21

INDUSTRY UPDATE NOTEWORTHY DEVELOPMENTS IMPACTING THE KITCHEN AND BATH MARKET
Local officials join REHAU management to officially open Plant Celaya 3 (l. to r.):
Maria Alva Cervantes, longest serving REHAU Mexico employee; Ramon Alfaro,
Guanajuato secretary of economic development; Dr. Veit Wagner, president of the
REHAU Group; Diego Sinhue, governor of the State of Guanajuato; Jose Luis Oliveros
Usabiaga, mayor of Apaseo el Grande; Dr. Thomas Troeger, CEO REHAU Americas,
and Gaspar Sierra, REHAU Celaya site director and manager of Plant Celaya 1.
REHAU Opens Mexican Factory
LEESBURG, VA — REHAU has celebrated the opening of Plant Celaya 3, a facility
“capable of securing the company’s position as the leading North American edge-
band supplier for decades,” the company announced.
The new, $25-million factory, located in central Mexico, adjacent to two existing
plants in Apaseo el Grande, Gto, adds 172,000 square feet of manufacturing and
warehouse space, company officials said.
Supporting the plant is a “robust” supply chain, including dedicated trucks that
will run daily between Celaya and the company’s new Dallas warehouse, and a more
integrated, Americas-wide supply chain management team, corporate officials said.
Premium Quality Wood
Countertops, Bar Tops &
Butcher Block
Miele to Build Alabama Factory
PRINCETON, NJ — Luxury appliance manufacturer Miele will open its first U.S.
production facility in Opelika, AL, the company announced.
The Germany-based manufacturer, whose U.S. headquarters are located in Princ-
eton, NJ, said it will begin production at the Alabama factory by the end of 2024. The
U.S., where Miele has been represented for some 40 years, is the company’s largest
market outside of Germany, the company said, adding that the new facility, in south-
east Alabama, will enable Miele to produce ovens, ranges and vent hoods designed
for the U.S., Canadian and Mexican markets. Shipping times to the U.S. will also be
dramatically reduced once the new factory is operational, corporate officials added.
Including the new plant, Miele’s international production network will include 16
locations, eight of which are in Germany and one each in Austria, China, the Czech
Republic, Romania, Poland and the U.S., the company said.
Emser Tile Opens Houston Testing Facility
LOS ANGELES — Emser Tile, the Los Angeles-based supplier of tile and natural
stone, has announced the opening of Emser Tech, a state-of-the-art product
testing facility in Houston, TX.
The new facility, situated inside one of the company’s four distribution center
hubs, allows Emser to effectively conduct all industry standards tests, according
to the company.
“The lab represents our ongoing investment and commitment to quality ex-
cellence,” said Carl Delia, CEO and president of Emser Tile. “Bringing the testing
process in-house empowers Emser to examine product evaluations more thor-
oughly and ensures that our development team has oversight from start to finish.”
- A Lifetime Warranty
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www.jaaronwoodcountertops.com
866-583-4200
 NOTEWORTHY DEVELOPMENTS IMPACTING THE KITCHEN AND BATH MARKET INDUSTRY UPDATE

SEN, operateIT Partner on Interactive Selling System

CHARLOTTE, NC — The SEN Design Group has partnered with software supplier WA on Oct. 2, Dallas, TX on Nov. 6, and Sacramento, CA on Dec. 4. Introductory
operateIT to launch an interactive selling system “marking a milestone in interactive sponsors include Cosentino, Custom Wood Products, The Galley, Grothouse, Nobilia,
project budgeting and sales efficiency,” the companies announced. and Tulip Cooking.
The collaboration, termed by the companies as “a significant move to trans- Information can be obtaining by visiting www.sendesigngroup.com.
form kitchen and bath industry
sales,” will introduce operate IT’s
“DesignAlign” system to the
kitchen and bath trade through
a series of seminars scheduled
to be held througout 2024, the

Elevate Your Education

companies reported.
“Our collaboration with SEN
is a crucial step towards revo-
lutionizing the kitchen and bath
industry,” said Keith Tobias, CEO
of the Ronkonkoma, NY-based
operateIT. “The insights and
expertise from SEN have been
with
invaluable in enhancing the
functionality and effectiveness
of DesignAlign.
“This tool is not just about
technological innovation; it’s
about transforming the way sales
are conducted, keeping in mind
the diverse needs of our [kitchen
and bath] industry profession-
als,” Tobias added.
According to Ken Peterson,
CKD, president and founder of
SEN Design Group, SEN will in-
troduce DesignAlign to industry
professionals through a newly
created series of sales seminars
in nine locations in 2024, the
UNIVERSITY
Charlotte, NC-based buying
group and business development
organization announced.
Entitled “From Hello to Re-
tainer in Your First Meeting,”
the one-day seminar “will focus
on how to earn client commit-
ments during the first meeting;
the winning psychology behind
interactive project budgeting;
and how to strategically present
your products and pricing to set
your company apart,” SEN offi-
cials said.
During the free one-day
seminar, SEN Design will be
introducing the “DesignAlign”
selling system, an interactive
project budgeting tool that em-
braces the SEN-recommended
“Good-Better-Best” sales pro-
cess, commented Brandon
Fitzmorris, SEN membership
manager.

www.dphauniversity.com
The 2024 seminar schedule
includes Orlando, FL on Jan. 31;
Atlanta, GA on March 6; Wash-
ington, DC on April 3; Chicago,
IL on May 1; Boston, MA on May
15; Denver, CO on July 17; Seattle, DPHA I 7508 Wisconsin Avenue, 4th Floor I Bethesda, MD 20814 I info@dpha.net

Circle No. XX on Product Card

January | February 2024 • KitchenBathDesign.com 23

INDUSTRY UPDATE NOTEWORTHY DEVELOPMENTS IMPACTING THE KITCHEN AND BATH MARKET

EVERY PROJECT HAS A STORY

WE’RE HERE TO TELL IT.

Pictured during a recent meeting in Washington, DC are U.S. Dept. of Com-

merce staff members along with Stephen Wellborn (Wellborn Cabinet); Bill
Allen (Showplace Cabinetry); Betsy Natz, Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers As-
sociation CEO; Jeff Gulledge (Bishop Cabinets); Marisa Lago, Under Secretary
of Commerce for International Trade; Edwin Underwood (Marsh Furniture);
Perry Miller (Kountry Wood Products); and Luke Meisner, KCMA Outside
Counsel. KCMA officials have been meeting regularly with U.S. government
officials as part of the association’s effort to battle alleged illegal imports of
kitchen cabinets and components from China and affiliated countries.

Wood-Mode Spotlights Factory Upgrades

Stonington Cabinetry & Designs | Photo by Chris Veith
Serving the
Kitchen & Bath Industry
When you work with Perfect Six,
KREAMER, PA — Wood-Mode has marked the fourth anniversary of its reopening
with a series of investments in solar power, energy-efficient manufacturing and
low-waste product development, the company announced.
According to Wood-Mode, headquartered in Kreamer, PA, installation recently
began on an eight-acre solar array that spans the rooftop of one of the largest
buildings in Wood-Mode’s one million-square foot manufacturing campus. The
second array to power the facility, the addition joins a 16-acre, ground-mounted
solar array located a quarter mile from the factory that was completed earlier this
year. Combined, these two systems will provide up to 80% of all electrical needs
factory-wide, the company said.
“The Wood-Mode legacy was built with great respect for the environment,” said
Rod Hunter, general manager. “We’ve taken that belief and amplified it to meet and,
in some cases, even exceed today’s standards for energy-efficient manufacturing.
Other recent enhancements to the Wood-Mode factory include an overhaul to
the company’s HVAC system and the installation of high-yield, energy-efficient
manufacturing equipment, Wood-Mode said.
“Sustainability is a key pillar in our business model (and) a core area of im-
portance to our dealers and customers, and we will continue to build on these
developments as Wood-Mode continues to evolve,” Hunter said.

you’ll get tried, true, and tested

technologies tailored to your business Bidet Suppliers Consolidate Operations
from experienced industry SAN FRANCISCO — Brondell, the San Francisco-based supplier of bidets and
related personal-care technologies, has consolidated its operations with Omigo,
professionals. a supplier of direct-to-consumer bidets in the U.S. and Canadian markets, the
Our team combines data-driven companies announced.
Brondell said it will leverage its retailer partnerships to launch Omigo into the
analytics with innovative ideas for mass market, “offering Omigo products to a wider audience at a compelling price.”
“We’re excited to introduce Brondell customers to Omigo’s outlook on personal
guaranteed success. hygiene while readying its products for retail,” said Brondell President Steve Scheer.
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DIGITAL MEDIA STRATEGIES
DENISE GROTHOUSE
Driving Sales and Brand Expansion
SALES ARE THE lifeblood of any busi-
ness, serving as the engine that drives growth,
sustains operations and ultimately determines
success. Whether you’re a startup striving to
make your mark or a well-established corpo-
ration looking to maintain your competitive
edge, the importance of brand reach and sales
cannot be overstated. In today’s business world,
generating sales involves a complex interplay of
strategies, technologies and customer-centric
approaches. From identifying your target audi-
ence to crafting compelling offers and leverag-
ing the latest sales channels, the considerations
are multifaceted and always evolving.
Let’s explore the top five marketing catego-
ries that can help you not only generate sales
but also build lasting customer relationships
and secure the future of your enterprise.
“Spend your resources on platforms that generate
revenue, not just traffic and unqualified leads.”
Digital Marketing: In today’s digital age, digital
marketing remains one of the most versatile
and effective ways to reach a wide audience.
It encompasses various website and online
channels, from social media and content mar-
keting to email campaigns and Search Engine
Optimization (SEO). Digital marketing allows
for precise targeting, real-time analytics and
cost-effective strategies.
Pro Tip: A mixture of storytelling, inspiration
and problem-solving is a champion strategy for
digital marketing.
Industry Insight: SieMatic Möbelwerke USA
Sheri Mercante, director of market develop-
ment of SieMatic Möbelwerke USA, explains
the firm’s new initiative for 2024: “Our compa-
ny’s strategic focus is dedicated to optimizing
the efficient distribution of material samples
to our clients and trade partners. In addition
to this logistical emphasis, we are redefining
our marketing approach by embracing the
power of personal storytelling. Departing
from the conventional studio photoshoots
showcasing idyllic yet sometimes unattain-
able kitchen settings, we are adopting a ‘Case
Study’ approach that delves into the intricacies
of our design decisions, layouts, finishes and
the finer details. By spotlighting problem-solv-
ing methods we employ for homeowners, we
provide valuable insights and the opportunity
to share our achievements.”
Influencer Marketing: This strategy leverages
the popularity and credibility of influencers in
26 Kitchen & Bath Design News • January | February 2024
your niche to endorse your product. It’s a pow-
erful way to tap into a pre-existing, engaged
audience and build trust through third-party
validation.
Pro Tip: Look for influencers that appeal to
your customer base on platforms you are not
actively engaging with on a regular basis to
expand your brand reach.
Paid Advertising: Paid advertising offers imme-
diate visibility. Whether it’s magazine or news-
paper, billboards, pay-per-click ads, display ads
or video ads, you can reach potential customers
at different stages of the buying journey. This
approach requires a substantial budget but
offers precise control over where and how your
ads are displayed.
Pro Tip: Many national magazines offer region-
al targeted advertising to subscription custom-
ers. The cost of a one-page ad is much less
than a nationwide advertisement. However,
your advertisement will not be published in
traditional newsstand copies.
Content and Public Relations: Crafting
high-quality content and engaging in public
relations efforts can help establish your brand
as an industry authority. Press releases, guest
blogging and thought leadership pieces can gar-
ner media attention and expand your reach.
Pro Tip: Publishing blog posts that regularly
touch on industry-specific topics reinforces
your brand as an authority on the subject.
Word of Mouth and Referral Marketing: This
category relies on the power of recommenda-
tions and satisfied customers to grow your user
base. Encourage referrals through incentives,
but also focus on creating a product or service
so exceptional that customers naturally become
advocates.
Pro Tip: Offering the best customer service and
customer experience is paramount to garner-
ing referrals. Understanding what is important
to your customers is key to creating a positive
experience.
Industry Insight: Steiner-Houck & Associates,
LLC, Sandra Steiner-Houck, CKD, Allied ASID
is president of Steiner-Houck & Associates,
LLC and boasts over three decades of ded-
ication to her craft. With appointment-on-
ly showrooms nestled in Mount Joy and
Annapolis, her story is significant. In recent
years, her business has experienced meteoric
three-fold growth, prompting the addition of
a second showroom in the Annapolis area.
Sandra explains her showrooms are designed
“to capture people’s attention and create an
experience they have never seen before.” Her
approach to design is to rely on a referral
basis and foster relationships with architects.
Her portfolio includes a private label cabinet
line and her own bespoke furniture line. Her
accolade as a Kitchen and Bath Design News
Innovator in 2023 is a testament to her vision-
ary contributions to the field. Sandra’s success
story underscores the value of her 30 years of
experience, with referrals and word-of-mouth
marketing serving as the cornerstone of her
business.
Reflections: Each of these approaches has its
strengths and can be tailored to fit your specific
marketing goals, target audience and budget.
Additionally, combining these methods can
often yield even more effective results, as they
can complement each other to create a com-
prehensive marketing strategy. Ultimately, the
choice of marketing approach should align with
your product, industry and overall business
objectives. The balance of the equation is how
much to spend and where you should spend it.
MARKETING BUDGET OPTIMIZATION
Nothing in marketing is free, and most of it is
getting more expensive. As a general guideline,
many businesses allocate around 5% to 12% of
their annual revenue to marketing. Industries
with intense competition or high customer
acquisition costs might allocate more, while
others may allocate less. The percentage of
revenue allocated to marketing should be flex-
ible and responsive to the unique needs and
circumstances of your business.
The art of nailing your marketing budget
relies on data from customers and prospects.
The vehicles that attract your ideal clients need
to be recognized and nurtured. The simple
question, “How did you find us?” is often
overlooked as a cost-saving tool for marketing.
Spend your resources on platforms that gen-
erate revenue, not just traffic and unqualified
leads. Data from website visitors and customer
demographics play a large role in identifying
opportunities for growth. ▪
Denise Grothouse has an extensive background in
international business, branding and marketing. She
specializes in digital and social platforms and integrating
them with traditional marketing and branding strategies
in the kitchen and bath industry. She is the founder of
Perfect Six Marketing, director of Public Relations for
HeroPlex and serves on the Leadership Council for the
National Small Business Association.
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 SELLING DESIGN
JAN NEIGES,
CMKBD
Keeping a Business Busy in a Downturn
THIS NEW YEAR is bringing conflicting
predictions for the remodeling industry. One
report from Harvard University’s Joint Center
for Housing Studies states owner spending
on home updates in 2024 will decline through
the third quarter of the year. Another article,
presented by Alicia Huey, National Association
of Home Builders 2023 Chairman, supports
a solid remodeling market due to the demo-
graphic trend of the older population.
Is there a way to be certain of how busi-
ness will go during the year? Not really. The
question becomes, then, how can you protect
your business from these unpredictable pro-
jections and avoid the stress in navigating the
unknown?
If you are a kitchen and bath designer like
me, you need to be in a position to have ad-
vance warning of a downturn so you can adjust
quickly. Businesses large and small stay ahead
of downturns by predicting end-of-year gross
“If you are a kitchen and bath designer, you need
to be in a position to have advance warning of a
downturn so you can adjust quickly.”
sales. However, this process, which is a sales
skill, rarely gets implemented by a designer or
even other industry sales reps.
One simple way to predict end-of-year
gross sales is to make it a regular habit to track
sales on a monthly basis. While it might seem
difficult to determine monthly gross sales six to
nine months out, it is actually easy to do. The
goal is to calculate the monthly average to get
the end-of-year total. Use last year’s gross sales
as a benchmark to confirm if sales are on track
to be the same for the new year.
IMPLEMENTING THE PROCESS
I have done sales tracking throughout my various
sales jobs over these past 40 years and it has
been accurate in determining if my sales were
going up or down. Every month I total the sales
to date. For example: let’s assume my total gross
sales for the first quarter of this year is $250K.
If I divide that by 3, I get a monthly average of
$83,333. To get my total end-of-year gross sales,
I multiply the monthly average by 12. I also in-
clude pending projects that I know will close that
year. If the monthly averages keep going down,
which changes the year-end total, I have a chance
to react quickly to decide if I need to reduce my
expenses, call up more leads, or change my sales
28 Kitchen & Bath Design News • January | February 2024
activity or marketing strategy. Tracking my gross
sales predicts my income with an added bonus of
being less stressed.
In addition to monitoring monthly sales, I
also monitor how many new inquiries I receive
every month. Last January, I had zero new in-
quiries, and that surprised me because January
has always been a robust month of activity
ever since I started my business in 2012. I was
not alarmed, though; my income for the year
was solid because I had a lot of design projects
booked. However, I was concerned about where
the new business would come from since
January was slow.
I was cautiously optimistic for 2024 until
this past summer when I started asking others
about their sales activity. Most were saying they
were super busy, however that information
isn’t necessarily accurate because it depends
on where in the sales cycle of a remodel their
revenue is generated. My sales cycle as a kitch-
en designer is like a pregnancy – it takes up to
nine months. Money earned on one project is
spread out over nine months and can carry over
to the next year.
I realized that I had to make a correction in
my business after I chatted with the manager
of a stone distributor when attending an NKBA
Chapter event this past summer. He stated
that July was unusually slow and his only sales
were from the high-end clients who seem to
never be affected by any economic downturn.
To confirm it wasn’t just his industry, I chatted
with an appliance rep who stated that their
third-quarter sales in 2023 were expected to be
down from 2022.
I now had concrete evidence that it wasn’t
just me and that I knew I had to make a
change. By last fall I was ready to react to
improve my income for 2024 because I monitor
my sales on a monthly bases – and it never
hurts to ask your colleagues and peers, “how is
business?”
GENERATING BUSINESS
To meet the slowdown head on, I looked back
at my marketing practices and noticed that I
always garner solid leads from presenting at a
local home show. My presentations cover topics
ranging from: “How to avoid mistakes when
remodeling” and “How much will it really cost to
remodel?” The seminar usually attracts five to 10
people and I walk away with two or three design
projects booked. So, the logical decision was to
do more seminars.
Based on the success of the home show
I knew that if I marketed my own seminar,
I could have success bringing in new design
projects. I worked with a marketing company
and spent $4,000 to do an email campaign.
They provided an email list of a zip code area of
my choice and the emails were qualified buyers
based on their income, home ownership, home
value, etc. The zip code area I selected had
200,000 homes and we only marketed to 21,000
emails based on the buying criteria we selected.
Using my cell phone, I created a video of
myself promoting the seminar and included
that in the emails. I also promoted the seminar
on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn. This
in-person seminar was scheduled at a location
within the zip code of the email recipients and
I garnered 15 leads in one hour. If two leads
turn into a design project then I’ve covered my
expenses and made money. If I can turn all 15
leads into design projects and, with my average
net income of $15,000 on a kitchen remodel, I
will have a very successful 2024.
If I had not had a process to monitor
my sales monthly to predict my end-of-year
income, and also monitor lead inquiries, then
I would not have been in the position to react
quickly to change course and implement a new
marketing strategy to bring in new business. I
was able to be proactive to make a change and
started 2024 with less stress.
Having a process is important, and in this
column in the coming months I will expand
upon how to implement simple processes to
help your business succeed, save time and
increase your income. This is a key part of the
formula for success for anyone who designs
and sells! ▪
Jan Neiges, CMKBD, has been part of the kitchen and
bath industry for 25 years, starting her own design firm
in 2012. An award-winning designer, she is a past Board
Member for the National Kitchen & Bath Association
(2019-2022) and past president of the NKBA Rocky
Mountain Chapter. In addition to designing kitchens and
baths, Neiges is a business coach for designers and acts
as a mentor for design students. She can be reached at
jan@janneiges.com.
Read past columns and features and send us
your comments about this article and others at
KitchenBathDesign.com

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TREND SPOTTING
Artificial Intelligence in Kitchens & Baths
BY JAMIE GOLD, CKD, CAPS, MCCWC
Kitchen and bath design pros
are discovering a multitude of
AI’s capabilities to help them
in their businesses.
If you’re of a certain age – Hello, Boomer! – ar-
tificial intelligence may call to mind a malig-
nant AI antagonist from 2001: A Space Odyssey
named HAL 9000 that refuses to open the pod
bay doors for astronaut Dave. And while it’s
possible that some of the technology being in-
troduced five-plus decades after that landmark
1968 Kubrick film can cause harm to society,
many in the kitchen and bath industry are
discovering there’s also tremendous capacity for
AI to produce very positive outcomes.
To get a sense of how it’s being used now
and what’s next, I reached out to seven pros:
• Leslie Carothers, a digital marketing
consultant specializing in the home design
industry;
• Alex Capecelatro, CEO of smart home auto-
mation firm Josh.ai;
• Austin-based interior designer and AI app
developer Maria Martin;
• Hudson Valley, NY-based interior designer
and remodeler Michael Gilbride;
• Public relations and integrated marketing
agency owner Jocelyn Hutt;
• Smart home technology integrator and CEO
of Caregiver Smart Solutions Ryan Herd;
• Dawn Haynie, research fellow with the
American Society of Interior Designers.
DEFINITIONS
So what exactly is artificial intelligence? Stanford
University describes it as a term coined and
defined by its emeritus professor John McCarthy
in 1955 as “the science and engineering of
making intelligent machines. Much research has
humans program machines to behave in a clever
way, like playing chess, but, today, we emphasize
machines that can learn, at least somewhat like
human beings do.” It’s this ability of machines to
learn that enables them to help us in our work,
homes and everyday lives.
AI can create space plans and product de-
signs, as well as promotional materials. It can
be used in homes to provide water and energy
efficiency, deliver aging in place support and
enhance voice control systems. Industry pros
and their clients are taking advantage of all of
these capabilities. How are you using it?
BUSINESS USES
“These tools improve your business process-
es. They establish and execute a brand voice
and create continuity among a team across
the brand,” Martin declares. AI can also give
you feedback on your marketing approach
30 Kitchen & Bath Design News • January | February 2024
Courtesy: Josh.ai
AI can be incorporated into phone apps to allow
and generate images to use as inspiration (as for smarter home automation.
print and online photos used to do), she adds.
Courtesy: Leslie Carothers with Midjourney for Thompson
OpenAI is the leader for business AI needs,
Martin shares. It is already being used in
Canva, a popular promotional tools platform,
and can be quickly adapted into others.
Gilbride would likely agree. “Running a lean
studio, I devote most of my cognitive energy to
my clients, projects and staff development, but
when my brain doesn’t have the juice to draft
out a job description, interview questions or
even write a compelling email subject line for
marketing purposes, I’ll prompt a large lan-
guage model (LLM) AI to brainstorm a few for
me that I’ll use as a starting point to refine into
its final copy,” the designer comments.
He’s also incorporating other AI-based tools
into his work, he says. “I use a combination of AI can be used to develop and market products
Notion and G-Suite for my business. Both use like this sink collaboration.
different LLMs, so as this nascent industry de-
velops, it’s helpful to see how they progress in blogs, etc. is enormous, and many designers I
their competition against each other. It’s prom- know are using it exactly that way,” Carothers
ising to see how both can take meeting notes observes. They can also create an AI section of
(written or audio), extract key takeaways, next their website showing a prospective client the
steps and build a fast follow agenda efficiently.” possibilities for their project, she suggests.
These tools come with limitations, howev- Haynie adds, “Many designers are using
er. “Incorporating AI into my business is very ChatGPT to create quick drafts for social media
much like hiring an intern to work in your posts that can be easily edited afterwards. Some
office: Enthusiastic, helpful, but some need designers are using AI as a search engine to
more coaching to get what you need,” muses research topics.”
Gilbride. “Some of these tools are great to AI can be a boon to retailers too, Carothers
recap meetings and next steps without much points out, as they use it for both marketing
oversight. Since these LLM are making edu- and enhanced customer service with 24/7 chat-
cated guesses for the next string of words in a bots. Retailers can also purchase AI-designed
sentence or imagery in a picture, you will need products, display them in their showrooms
to apply some critical thinking to shape what it and create events around them, she suggests.
produces.” Young consumers are very interested in this
“The ability for designers to use ChatGPT concept right now, the marketer says, suggest-
to help with ideas for articles, newsletters, ing that “an event celebrating and educating
 Courtesy: Maria Martin (Midjourney Image)
about AI-assisted products will help retailers
draw traffic into their showrooms.”
Manufacturers can also use chatbots
for their customer service needs, Carothers
observes. Hutt adds, “There are myriad ways
for manufacturers to leverage the technology;
from supply chain optimization and inventory
management to identifying inefficiencies in
manufacturing and automating procedures.
If AI can help determine efficiencies – more
power to it!”
Josh.ai, which creates smart home technol-
ogy systems, has been using AI to develop its
products since 2015, says Capecelatro. “From
LLMs to automatic speech recognition (ASR),
we offer advanced voice control and natural lan-
guage interfaces for the home. In addition, we
use AI in generation of our marketing material,
inside sales tools and much more.”
“When ChatGPT was first introduced, I
viewed it as a slightly more evolved version of
Wikipedia,” recalls Hutt. The pro now uses it as
a jumping-off point, “meaning if I was working
on a blog or presentation and needed back-
ground on the relevance of Italian design (for
example), I could ask ChatGPT, and it would
throw back paragraphs of information.” It’s also
a staffing tool, she adds. “You can have it quick-
ly write job descriptions and analyze resumes Designers use AI to show clients what their rooms can look like.
based on your input.”
Hutt sees potential in email marketing as Report and will also trend in the 2024 report, connected to apps that monitor and adjust
well. “Platforms are incorporating AI into their she notes. temperature,” Haynie says.
systems to identify and segment demographics Gilbride points out that communicating de- Martin loves “the perfect world where
and provide more detailed analytics. List build- sign ideas to clients is one of the most important your refrigerator keeps an inventory and the
ing and list management are time-consuming things a designer does. He uses Midjourney and AI can generate recipes for you. The tech can
but necessary, and if AI can help identify weak- Stable Diffusion for that purpose. “We can create already do it. It’s just a matter of time ‘til it’s
nesses or strengths, I see that as being very imagery, sketches or other concept assets and ap- done.” Gilbride expects to see those models
useful,” she suggests. ply it to a photo of the clients’ home,” all without hit showrooms in the near future, along with
Herd says he harnesses AI’s power across the expense or waste of ordering samples. AI-enhanced cooking appliances. He also lets
his caregiving technology firm’s marketing customers play with user-friendly AI tools like
programs, as well as for web development and HOMEOWNER USES CollovGPT or HomeAI and share their ideas
research. AI is already enhancing the technology we have that way with him.
in our homes (and our clients’ homes) – or On a more profound level, AI can also
DESIGN USES are being considered for their potential. Smart support remote caregiving. If you’re work-
Manufacturers are already using AI for product cameras and locks can keep strangers out of our ing on any aging-in-place projects, this is a
design, Carothers points out, citing a collabora- homes and medicine cabinets. (When it comes tremendous resource for your clients. “Our AI
tion she has with Thompson (formerly known to security-related applications, Gilbride smartly analyzes daily living activities to help prevent
as Thompson Traders) for a bathroom sink she says he’ll test them in areas of his own home falls as well as promote independence and
designed using AI. The fixture firm is manu- before recommending them to his clients.) dignity for elders living alone,” shares Herd.
facturing this lav and will debut it at KBIS in “I am most excited to see how someone That means a client’s kitchen can get appliance
February. like Martha Stewart will train all their books, sensors to communicate to a remote family
Designers can use AI to help them design programming and other content into a large caregiver whether they opened the refrigerator
a custom product, Carothers suggests, get a language model,” the New York designer or cooked dinner. “If someone is not eating,
quote from a manufacturer to produce it, and enthuses. “It can simplify prep work, shopping the system will detect that and advise a loved
set up an ecommerce shop on their own site lists, entertaining work and more for a dinner one. It can also use bathroom sensors to alert
to sell that product. The creative and income party or a weekend of home entertaining in a if there are more bathroom visits than normal,
potential here is truly extraordinary – especially few minutes. If widely adopted, a tool like that which can give early notice on health issues like
if there’s on-demand capability that doesn’t could change the way many consumers interact urinary tract infections or worse.”
require inventory or storage costs. in their homes and have an impact on the Capecelatro says, “Our clients use the
Designers are most excited about “using needs of a new kitchen, bar or other entertain- AI built into Josh to control everything from
3D modeling and rendering software to study ing spaces in their projects,” he predicts. security to entertainment to environmentals.
multiple iterations and help clients visualize “Designers are specifying features with Get notified when someone is at the house,
the designs, facilitating easier client decision- built-in AI, like Alexis [and] Sonos connected ask Josh to surprise you with music you might
making,” ASID’s Haynie observes. AI provides to apps like Pandora, Lutron lighting systems, enjoy, or even get help with recipe ideas based
interior designers with recommendations and water, energy and air quality monitoring, along on your dietary needs. The sky’s the limit!”
customized solutions, she adds. The technolo- with appliances that connect to apps develop- The Josh.ai CEO wants to see kitchen
gy showed up in ASID’s 2023 Trends Outlook ing and monitoring grocery lists, and grills and bath pros educate themselves on the

January | February 2024 • KitchenBathDesign.com 31

TREND SPOTTING
This AI-rendered project is currently in development.
technology’s potential. “They should be learn-
ing about the different capabilities and benefits
for their clients,” including the many features
an AI assistant can provide for their clients.
Then specifiers should ask their tech partners
how to achieve their goals as simply as possible.
“AI-powered voice assistants allow home-
owners to control various aspects of their home
hands-free, which is particularly useful for
individuals with mobility challenges,” suggests
Herd. One notable example is window cover-
ings in hard-to-reach locations like above a deep
tub. “AI powers smart home devices that adjust
lighting, temperature and even music based on
personal preferences and routines. It creates
a living space that adapts to the homeowner’s
lifestyle,” he comments. AI can also monitor a
home remotely, ideal for both caregivers and
vacation or rental property owners. They can
get alerts about freezing pipes, break-ins and
other issues that can imperil their loved ones,
properties and/or tenants.
“I think predictive maintenance for appli-
ances could be the most useful: AI applications
can analyze data from appliances like refriger-
ators, HVAC systems and washing machines
to predict maintenance needs, preventing
breakdowns and extending the lifespan of these
appliances,” suggests marketer Hutt. “That
would have warned me before my hot water
heater exploded!”
Another important use of AI involves
resource conservation. AI algorithms can
optimize water usage, like when to water
different plants, and detect leaks in real time.
“Along with predictive maintenance, home-
owners should be able to see actual savings (I
hope!),” the PR pro adds, predicting, “I think
we will continue to see advancements, such as
32 Kitchen & Bath Design News • January | February 2024
Courtesy: Michael Gilbride (Midjourney Image)
Courtesy: Michael Gilbride (Midjourney Image)
AI can be used for mood boards without expensive, wasteful samples.
AI-enabled appliances that learn user habits and of smart devices, which all utilize artificial
adjust settings for improved efficiency and con- intelligence, but they nonetheless continue to
venience. This includes AI-enabled refrigerators, buy them,” Carothers comments. She sees these
ovens, faucets and lighting systems.” Energy users still wanting human connections and sup-
conservation benefits from AI capabilities too. port from the companies they do business with.
Gilbride’s clients are less concerned about a
USE CAUTIONS malicious smart home becoming sentient and
“I don’t ever want to have information with my burning them in the shower, he says, “but [are]
or my company’s name on it that isn’t written very conscious of where the very private data
by us! Authenticity and expertise still matters,” of their personal home could be used without
Hutt declares. “Given the intricacies of many their consent.” So am I – and so should you!
of my clients’ products, I wouldn’t trust AI-
generated text to fully articulate what makes LAST WORDS
[them] unique.” She believes it takes people “Technology is becoming more pervasive in
who understand products in a much deeper both the design process as well as products,”
way to write about them. Haynie declares. “We anticipate the use of
Herd agrees, “It’s crucial to approach AI AI will enhance technology and products for
with a blend of enthusiasm and caution. While increased convenience and improved usage.”
AI offers innovative solutions, its output re- Adoption is essential, Carothers accurately,
quires careful review for accuracy.” in my opinion, declares. “Any technological
Marketer Carothers points to ethical advance that saves people time, money or both
challenges facing the industry: “AI imagery will see worldwide adoption, as we saw with the
does not mean a designer has the capability to internet, and then social media.” AI is the next
produce a design. It is very important for all AI- iteration of this phenomenon and is already
assisted images to be labeled as such, and for seeing adoption and acceleration. “Companies
designers to band together to hold themselves that manage the balance between AI adoption
accountable for transparency so consumers are and human connection well will be the ones
not misled.” that will thrive in 2024 and beyond,” Carothers
Designer Martin agrees that not disclosing predicts. Will yours be among them? ▪
the use of AI is an important issue for the
design profession. She also notes that the tools Jamie Gold, CKD, CAPS, MCCWC is
currently in use are imperfect: “AI does not an author, wellness design consultant
understand space planning codes and human and NKBA Chapter presenter. Her
interaction with spaces.” There are resources in award-winning third book, Wellness
development to address its shortcomings, she by Design (Simon & Schuster, 2020),
shares. Be careful of your reliance on technology has a new Bonus Chapter: Lessons for How We Live
in lieu of your expertise and instincts! Now, published October 2023. Learn more about her
On the end user front, “Homeowners are Wellness Market presentations, books and consulting
definitely concerned about the privacy aspects services at jamiegold.net.
MARSHCABINETS.COM
PROJECT CASE STUDY SPOTLIGHT ON CREATIVE, PROBLEM-SOLVING KITCHENS AND BATHS

Ensuite Boasts a ‘Wing’ of Amenities

BY KIM BERNDTSON

This trio of bedroom, bathroom and dressing room/closet is
sited so the homeowners can move seamlessly from one
spa-like space to the next.
JACKSONVILLE, FL — From the start,
this new-construction custom home in Ponte
Vedra Beach, FL, was designed to be a forever
home to accommodate the lifestyles of the
young, busy professionals who reside within.
“Working high-level, stressful jobs, they
needed a quiet place to decompress and relax
after work,” says Kamila Malewska, principal
designer, Level Up Design in Jacksonville who
worked with Rainier Residential & Commercial
Contractors. “They also wanted a place for fam-
ily gatherings, parties and game nights.”
One particularly peaceful space within the
home is the couple’s expansive primary ensuite,
which includes a large bathroom, dressing
room/closet and bedroom, the latter of which
provides direct access to the backyard and pool
area via sliding doors.
“The suite is open and airy and takes up a
whole wing of the home,” she relates, adding
that ensuites for many of her clients have been
getting larger and more spa-like. “These clients,
like many, want a private spa sanctuary where
they can not only get ready in the morning, but
also unwind after a long and stressful day.”
As such, she often includes luxurious
features like oversized showers with multiple
showerheads and body jets, steam showers or
saunas, elegant soaking tubs and mood lighting
that accompany her go-to functional features
like curbless shower entries, large shampoo
and foot rest niches, hair tool/skin care product
organizers and hidden trash and laundry ham-
pers. Visually, statement wallpaper or tile that
creates a focal point, beautiful framed mirrors
and eye-catching chandeliers or sconce lighting
also elevate the space and make it look more
well-appointed.
Many of these elements are incorporated
into this bathroom, including the super-sized
and super-equipped shower, which Malewska
turned into a wet room by also including a
freestanding soaking tub. The room’s tall
ceilings and spacious footprint accommodate
the husband’s tall stature while its multiple
showerheads and body jets satisfy his desire for
a ‘car wash’ experience.
“They gave me a lot of creative freedom to
design the space, but his main request was for
a shower that was big enough for him to fit
comfortably,” says the designer.
With functional needs met, Malewska
focused on amping up the aesthetics with Floor
and Décor’s District Gray Leaf porcelain mosaic
tile, which she used on the floor, ceiling and
as accents for the tub niche and shower bench
wall accent.
“The tile is a very special feature of the
bathroom,” she explains. “It makes a statement,
enveloping the shower and contrasting with the
simple wall tiles to draw up the eye and show-
case the true size of the wet room.”
Frameless glass allows for an unobstructed
visual of the tile-clad shower/tub space while its
curbless entry creates a sense of continuity and
makes it feel connected to the rest of the room.
Matte Black plumbing fixtures from Delta
Faucet’s Trinsic Collection provide a simple
and modern look that supports the home’s

Photos: Kim Lindsey Photography

OVERSIZED TRANSOM
WINDOW
Brightens the area and
brings nature into the room

DOUBLE VANITIES
Provide practical
storage to keep the
SUPER-SIZED, SUPER-
countertop clean
EQUIPPED WET ROOM
Satisfies the husband’s
request for a large shower
that provides a ‘car wash’
experience

34 Kitchen & Bath Design News • January | February 2024

 The solid maple double vanity boasts a chocolate espresso stain that matches the hardwood floors used
throughout the home. A quartz vanity top mimics concrete but is easy to clean and supports the industrial
vibe. Matching tall towers flank each side of the vanity and address storage needs.
masculine craftsman/farmhouse design that is
sprinkled with a bit of industrial style.
“The design direction for the entire home,
as well as the primary bathroom, is craftsman
meets farmhouse and goes on a date with
industrial!” she quips.
The tub filler and shower fixtures coordi-
nate with the black brushed limestone tile floor,
also from Floor and Décor, that grounds the
room and adds an organic touch that offers a
nod to the nature preserve on which the home’s
lot borders.
The dark hue is repeated on the focal-point
vanity wall where it is used as the frame for the
statement-making, 36"-diameter CB2 mirrors
and as the trim for the 8' transom window,
which brightens the area and brings nature
into the room. A trio of pendants from Savoy
House, which are a mix of brass and dark
bronze, serve as a unifying element.
“The lights perfectly fill up the space above
the mirrors,” she relates. “They also have a
unique shape and their two-tone finish helps
blend the black plumbing fixtures and brass
accessories.”
While the lighting fixtures’ finish address-
es aesthetic needs, functionally lighting is an
essential component of Malewska’s designs.
“I like designing spaces with layers of
lighting that can be adjusted as needed,” she
indicates. “In this bathroom, I added a chande-
lier in the middle of the room to add interest
to the ceiling and to fill in the space, since the
ceilings are 10' high. LED recessed lighting
provides good, general light and the shower
has its own light/exhaust fan combo that looks
like can lights. In the vanity area, recessed LED
lights over the sinks layer with the oversized
pendants. All of the lights were installed
with dimmer switches so, depending on my
clients’ needs and mood, they can adjust the The super-sized shower is large enough to accommodate the husband’s tall stature while multiple shower-
brightness.” heads and body sprays fulfill his request for a ‘car wash’ experience. Mosaic tile on the floor and ceiling amp
up the aesthetics to make a statement and contrast with the simple wall tile.

January | February 2024 • KitchenBathDesign.com 35

PROJECT CASE STUDY SPOTLIGHT ON CREATIVE, PROBLEM-SOLVING KITCHENS AND BATHS

Storage needs are also handled via the dressing/room closet that is part of the ensuite ‘wing.’ Dressers are in the center island and additional drawer storage, open
shelves, hanging space, shoe pull-outs, special pull-out hangers for pants and even jewelry trays are included around the perimeter.

PRACTICAL STORAGE traditional towel rods, I proposed a leaning

The primary bathroom is nestled between the pri-
mary bedroom and dressing room/closet. Malewska
used the same color palette in all of the rooms so that
when the doors are opened, they flow together. All of
the rooms have warm, darker wood tones, black light
fixtures and furniture/accessories and a very neutral
off-white backdrop.
The solid maple double vanity, custom built
by a local cabinet maker, boasts a chocolate
espresso stain that matches the hardwood
floors used throughout the home. A quartz
vanity top, Pompeii Quartz’s Urban, mimics
concrete but is low maintenance, easy to clean
and supports the industrial vibe. Matching tall
towers flank each side of the vanity and address
storage needs.
“Since the project was fully designed from
start to finish, I had a chance to discuss stor-
age needs with my clients,” she relates. “We
agreed on ample practical storage in the vanity
cabinets and large towers that house everything
from linens, toiletries and accessories. This
definitely helps to keep the countertops clutter
free. And, since there wasn’t really room for
ladder as their towel rack.”
Storage needs are also handled via the
dressing/room closet that is part of the ensuite
‘wing.’
“I designed the entire ensuite so my clients
can get ready in the morning without having to
leave the bathroom and disturb the person still
sleeping in the bedroom,” Malewska explains.
“The dressing room/closet is located at the
back of the bathroom, behind double doors,
and it has room for everything. Dressers are in
the center island and additional drawer storage,
open shelves, hanging space, shoe pull-outs
and special pull-out hangers for pants are
included around the perimeter. I even included
trays for jewelry. It’s truly a one-stop shop to get
ready in the morning.”▪

36 Kitchen & Bath Design News • January | February 2024

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DESIGN SPOTLIGHT
Lake Views Inspire Entertainers’ Paradise
BY ANITA SHAW
OBH, the
designer and the
client collaborated
to create the slab doors
and drawers mixed with
a custom stepped
profile collaboration
between
On the island that
separates the dining room
from the kitchen, The Galley
workstation stands at the ready
to go from prep to party space,
along with Sub-Zero ice maker,
beverage refrigerator and
pop-up outlets
Surrounded by nature’s beauty, this lakefront home incorporates warm and natural
elements to deliver the ultimate social space.
LAKEWOOD, IL — The primary home for this empty
nest couple is located on Crystal Lake in Lakewood, IL, which
affords the interior of the home beautiful lake views from
multiple vantage points. Wine aficionados who enjoy traveling
and an active social life, the clients brought in interior designer
Julie Novy of architectural interior design firm JWN Designs
in Crystal Lake to create a home that would work for entertain-
ing. Novy, in turn, teamed with Chicago-based O’Brien Harris
(OBH) to create the kitchen and cabinetry design throughout
the home, which was built by Orren Pickell. OBH focused on
the kitchen and pantry, primary bath, mudroom, family work-
station/message center, dining room and bar, wine storage,
primary bedroom, powder room and closets.
Fulfilling a lifelong dream to live on the lake, the couple
desired a lake-living lifestyle, complete with warmth and
natural elements. A custom floating fireplace, distinctive wine
chiller display and heated outdoor living space were among the
amenities requested.
“We used natural materials, such as green marble on the
38 Kitchen & Bath Design News • January | February 2024
Photos: Tony Soluri
The perimeter
cabinetry in the kitchen
is rift and quartered white
oak with a custom finish,
paired with Iceberg quartzite
countertops, which is used
throughout the space
The islands
feature a hand-
painted finish in
white Barely
There
wine wall, an end ring wood countertop on the family worksta-
tion, and custom stained woodgrain tall kitchen cabinets to add
comfort with an approachable feel,” Novy states. “The place-
ment and shape of each window was not only considered for
exterior architectural balance, but for interior axis connection
impact. The draw of nature through window views of the lake
water, plant life and stunning sunsets were all framed by the
complementary interior surrounds.”
Every room optimizes the lakefront home’s access to natural
sunlight and views up into the tree canopy, and from the shore-
line views to the rooftop oasis, she adds.
In addition, “building piques of interest, with a wonder of
what is beyond, is a repetitive design thread I wove through this
property,” Novy continues.
Designed to be the home’s main entertaining space, the
kitchen, dining and living areas are connected via an open floor
plan so guests can all be in one space. Two kitchen islands
allow for easy socializing, with seating at one island and a gath-
ering space anchored at the other. ▪
 At the main
kitchen sink cabinet
bank, the trash/recycle,
sink base and dishwasher
cabinets are joined by pocket
doors to the left and right
of the window for small
appliance storage

Among the
kitchen’s amenities
are a Kallista faucet
paired with a Julien sink,
and statement lighting
over the island from
Arteriors The main kitchen
island is highlighted by
a polished stainless steel
cuffed foot detail, used to
create a furniture feel

The design of a
faux panel above
the pantry is meant
“Anchored at the center of the home
to give the illusion of
walking into a special
is a special cook’s kitchen with dual
cupboard
islands, all surrounded by a three-
sided fireplace.”

A hidden
sliding door
includes a mesh grill
to add interest to what’s
beyond yet provide
privacy when
needed

The pantry includes

drawers and open
shelves with stainless
steel liners to hold food
items, oversized kitchen
cookware, cookbooks and
entertaining items

January | February 2024 • KitchenBathDesign.com 39

DESIGN SPOTLIGHT

The range hood

was custom made
in the OBH shop and
features polished stainless
steel banding on a body
of stainless steel with a
light patina

Drawer inserts
for organization
are included in all of the
drawers, including a fitted
knife holder, custom K-cup
insert, utensil inserts,
dividers for pots and
pans, and more

Featured in the
main kitchen are a
Cove dishwasher,; Wolf
steam oven, cooktop and
microwave; and Sub-Zero
refrigerator

“The structure of the design is based on three-dimensional axis point architectural

connections – meaning that wherever a person stands in the space and views the
other rooms or architectural elements, there is symmetry and flow.”

Antiqued mirror
tiles from Ann Sacks
bring the trees and sky
into the backdrop of the
custom woodwork

The dining room’s

Designed and
custom wine wall is
fabricated by OBH,
architecturally tied to
the illuminated wine
the outdoors via decorative
unit holds 151 bottles of
geometric relief lines on the
wine, backed by rift and
ceiling and the oak floor’s
quartered white
custom chevron pattern
oak

40 Kitchen & Bath Design News • January | February 2024

 DESIGN SPOTLIGHT

The dining room

buffet features
“Nothing on this property happened by tobacco stain on walnut
as well as mesh paneled
chance. I focused on twisting and tying doors that coordinate
with other spaces in
the axial connections between rooms, the home

which paid off by creating a space that

offers an enveloping experience.”

The cabinet
is solid rift and
quartered white oak
with a gray flannel
finish and angled show
shelves and lip at the
bottom

To address The built-in

privacy and buffet is used
sightline issues, two for glassware and
custom floor-to-ceiling, entertaining
armoire-style cabinets Along the side wall dishware
were added to the of the dining room,
primary suite the buffet area includes
pull-out drawers for liquor
storage, with an interior
pull-out for cigars and
bar utensils

The door
details on the
cabinets are a play on
a glass-paneled French
door, with recessed
panel instead of Sinks and
glass for privacy faucets from
Kallista enhance the
upscale feel of the
primary bath

Gray flannel
cabinetry with natural
maple interior and
polished stainless steel
door inlay from OBH is
topped with polished Tile from
Carrara marble Artistic Tile
surrounds the
Kohler tub and adds
shine to the wall

42 Kitchen & Bath Design News • January | February 2024

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FORECAST 2024
Guarded Optimism
Kitchen and bath design firms are cautious yet optimistic about business in 2024,
forecasting modest revenue gains amid a range of challenges.
CHICAGO — Kitchen and bath design and remodeling
firms are guardedly optimistic about the prospects for a busi-
ness uptick in 2024, although rising costs, labor constraints,
consumer uncertainty and other market headwinds continue
to tamp down expectations.
According to a nationwide survey conducted by Kitchen &
Bath Design News, dealers and designers, though forecasting
modest revenue gains in 2024, say that they harbor nagging
concerns about economic conditions impacting sales revenue,
business operations and profit margins in the coming year
(see related Barometers, Page 12).
KBDN’s online survey, which garnered 600+ responses,
was conducted in November of 2023, amidst a third quarter
marked by persistent inflation, 20+-year-high interest rates,
a sluggish housing market, skilled-labor shortages, a decline
in sales leads and an increase in project postponements and
cancellations.
When asked about current economic conditions impacting
their business in 2024, a whopping 93% of those surveyed
told KBDN that they are either “somewhat concerned,” “very
concerned,” or “extremely concerned.” In contrast, only a scant
7% reported that they are either “not very concerned” or “not at
44 Kitchen & Bath Design News • January | February 2024
all concerned” (see Figure 1).
Those concerns are mirrored in 2024 revenue projections,
which are decidedly less bullish than in previous annual
forecasts. Indeed, some 69% of KBDN survey respondents
reported that they expect 2024 annual revenue to either remain
flat or decline compared to 2023. In contrast, less than half
that number (31%) said they foresee a revenue increase this
year (see Figure 2).
Moreover, when asked if anticipated revenue increases in
2024 would be at the same rate as in 2023, only about 35% of
those surveyed answered affirmatively. By comparison, 65% of
the survey respondents told KBDN that any revenue increase
they might experience in 2024 would likely be at a slower pace
than in 2023.
Equally sobering are forecasts about 2024 profit margins,
which are clearly being impacted by rising product and raw
material costs, competitive pressures and labor costs that have
consistently been outpacing inflation.
Specifically, among the kitchen and bath design profession-
als surveyed by KBDN, only about a quarter (25.7%) said they
foresee their company’s profit margins rising in 2024,
continued on page 46
1. Concerns About Current Economy Impacting
Business Operations in 2024
0.5%
K/B Firms Vying to
Mitigate Labor Issues
6.7%
 Extremely Concerned
24.8%  Very Concerned CHICAGO — Rising labor costs and a shortage of skilled
 Somewhat Concerned workers are the two leading challenges facing kitchen and bath
 Not Very Concerned design firms, many of which report they are implementing any
36.4%  Not at All Concerned number of mitigation strategies to cope with labor-related
issues in 2024.
According to a nationwide survey by Kitchen & Bath Design
31.6%
News, kitchen/bath dealers, designers and remodelers are
addressing the dearth of labor by stepping up networking
Source: Kitchen & Bath Design News, 11/23 efforts to recruit new employees, developing apprenticeship
and in-house training programs, and adjusting their scheduling
by spacing out projects further, delaying timelines for project
completion, and eliminating time-consuming smaller projects.
Other strategies include attending trade events to recruit
2. Revenue Expectations For 2024 vs. 2023 tradespeople and creating referral programs with cabinet
installers, tile-setters, plumbers, electricians, carpenters and
other subcontractors.
 Expect Increase
 Expect Decrease “We have already added carpenter and production staff for
2024 since they’re available during the winter months,” a
30.7%  Expect Revenues to
business owner told KBDN. “A production-based pay system
Remain About the Same
appeals to most of our carpenters, since they’re paid a percent-
41.8% age of the sale. And we will increase wages for all staff in May.”
“We’ve begun using software to manage our internal opera-
tions and communication,” another business owner said. “We
are in desperate need of qualified younger workers to take us
27.5%
to the next level. We currently have a young staff with limited
skills, while our older staff members possess all the skills, but
Source: Kitchen & Bath Design News, 11/23
we can’t spread them far enough to handle all our jobs.”
According to the National Kitchen & Bath Association,
NKBA-member kitchen and bath design firms expect to raise
their hourly wages by an average of more than 4% in 2024.
3. Profit-Margin Expectations For 2024 vs. 2023 Other companies are implementing creative new compensa-
tion strategies, including new-age benefits and bonuses aimed
at motivating their current workforce while attracting and
 Expect Increase retaining new talent (see related Editorial, Page 9).
 Expect Decrease Design firms also report they are working with local vocation-
25.7%  Expect Revenues to
al-technical and trade schools, participating in community
Remain About the Same
outreach, and actively recruiting the younger generation to
51% incentivize them to learn a trade.
One Iowa-based business owner told KBDN that he is working
with state and local building associations to introduce middle
23.3% school, high school and college-age men and women to the
construction trades. His company, he said, works in conjunc-
tion with a “Future Builder of Iowa” coordinator, who travels
Source: Kitchen & Bath Design News, 11/23
around the state organizing “Hands on Trades” (HOT) Exposi-
tions, “so that young people can experience pouring concrete,
nailing a stud wall, hanging drywall, installing electrical wiring,
sheet metal work and other tasks.”
4. Importance of Pricing Compared to a Year Ago “We are talking to college students, and anyone who’ll listen,
about the shortage of skilled trades in our industry,” another
business owner reported. “I tell every young person I know to
enter this industry, since there’s huge opportunity to go to a
 More Important trade school and mentor under a GC or interior designer.”
 Less Important Despite these and other efforts, however, the challenge of find-
 About the Same ing and retaining workers remains daunting, survey respon-
38.2% dents told KBDN.
“I can’t find help,” one business owner lamented. “The younger
57.6% generation doesn’t want to work that hard. This industry owns
your life. If you’re successful, you’re working six days a week
continued on page 46

4.2% Source: Kitchen & Bath Design News, 11/23

January | February 2024 • KitchenBathDesign.com 45

FORECAST 2024

5. Sales Leads & Project Requests Compared continued from page 44

to a Year Ago while roughly three quarters believe their margins will either
remain the same (51%) or decline (23.3%) compared to 2023
(see Figure 3).
 Somewhat Higher When it comes to kitchen and bath remodeling projects,
 Much Higher roughly 58% of those surveyed also reported that pricing is
25.1% 25.7%  Somewhat Lower generally more critical to clients than it was at the same time
 Much Lower a year ago. By comparison, only about 4% said that pricing is
 About the Same less important than it was a year ago, while 38% said pricing is
6.8% equally important than it was a year earlier, (see Figure 4).
13.8% Also being impacted by lingering economic uncertainties
are sales leads. Specifically, more than 42% of those surveyed
28.6% report that their sales leads and project requests are either
“somewhat lower” (28.6%) or “much lower” (13.8%) than at
Source: Kitchen & Bath Design News, 11/23
the same time a year ago. By comparison, about 26% say their
sales leads are “somewhat higher” than a year ago, while about
25% say they are about the same. Less than 7% report their
6. Greatest Challenges Faced By Kitchen & current number of sales leads are “much higher” than they
Bath Design Firms were a year earlier (see Figure 5).
Price increases for products and raw materials, followed
3.4% 0.5%
0.6%
 Price Increases for Products & Raw Materials by a shortage of labor, head a lengthy list of challenges facing
kitchen and bath design firms. Other top challenges include
8.1%  Shortage of Skilled Labor long lead times for products, persistent production and ship-
20%  Longer Lead Times for Products ping delays, and customers postponing or canceling projects
8.1%  Production & Shipping Delays due to increased costs (see Figure 6; related story, Page 45).
 Customers Postponing/Canceling Projects
Due to Increased Cost
Among the survey’s other findings:
12.6% 17.9%
 Inability to Obtain Some Products • 62% of surveyed dealers and designers said they are far
13.4%  Customers Postponing/Canceling Projects
Due to High Interest Rates
more bullish about the prospects for 2024 revenue gains in
15.6% new or remodeled kitchens than they are in baths (27%).
 Supply Errors & Product Damage Interestingly, roughly 11% of those polled report they see
 Not experiencing any disruptions 2024 revenue growth emanating from work in other rooms
of the home – for example, home offices, laundry rooms,
 Other mud rooms, wine rooms and the like.
Source: Kitchen & Bath Design News, 11/23
• Increases in client requests are being experienced across a
broad spectrum of kitchen and bath products and features,
according to dealers and designers surveyed by KBDN.
Among the leaders are universal design or aging-in-place
elements; natural elements such as wood and stone; out-
door kitchens; sustainable/environmentally friendly prod-
ucts and materials; items that provide ease of maintenance,
and smart/connected appliances in the kitchen. ■

continued from page 45

or more. My business is all referral. Our business model works
only when our subcontractors are available and working. There is
a shortage of skilled trades, and we have to await availability and
carefully stage and manage all our projects.”
“It’s very hard to find the skilled labor we’re accustomed to having.
Products are coming in damaged, and we’re constantly waiting for
replacements and then having to send our crews back out to fix
these issues. And because our lead time is so far out on the calen-
dar, some suppliers don’t want to replace products because they’ve
been in my warehouse for months waiting on the start date.”
“It’s extremely hard to find and hire good people. Personnel are
more hostile today. Wages and work times seem to be of concern,
where that was not an issue before. The atmosphere of the sales
team is more negative. There is also lots of sick time, an increase
of time out of the office, and more of a laziness regarding the
level of speed and quality of workmanship. It’s almost as if people
challenge you to hold them accountable because other job offers
are out there.”
“Last year I needed to double my workforce and there was no
interest, even with increased pay. So I downsized from eight
employees to two, and changed my business structure. Now I pick
the jobs that are most beneficial to me, and price the ‘headache’
jobs out of the client’s budget, so that they’re forced to find some-
one else.”
But other business owners report that they’ve simply given up in
the face of challenging market realties.
“I plan to retire at the end of this year,” one dealer told KBDN. “The
issues with supply chain and customer expectations have become
so frustrating and stressful that this is no longer fun. The younger
generation thinks that going online and purchasing is the way to go
– until there’s an issue. They then expect that I should correct their
issues, even though I had nothing to do with the purchase.”
Said another: “I am paying a high rate for skilled labor, which eats
up our bottom line. I stay stressed because projects run over the
time allocated, and therefore jobs stack up. It’s no fun out there
after 30+ years in business.” ■

46 Kitchen & Bath Design News • January | February 2024

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KITCHEN DESIGN

Photo: Kortnee Kate Photography

Designer Amy Youngblood’s personal kitchen offers ample work
and entertaining space at the island, which features bold veining to
set it apart from the subtler perimeter countertops.

Designing for
Designers T
When a designer creates a kitchen for their own
home, imagination and creativity can soar beyond
what they might produce for the average client.
BY AUTUMN MCGARR
here’s something both fitting and somehow odd about
imagining professionals in any industry bringing their
expertise to bear on their own lives – chefs cooking dinner
for themselves, CPAs doing their own taxes, cobblers repairing
their own shoes, neurosurgeons performing their own opera-
tions…. Well, maybe not that last one, but the point stands.
In many ways, kitchen designers creating their own home
kitchens might find they’re working with both the best and
worst client possible – informed, creative and adventurous, yet
excruciatingly choosy with a tendency toward perfectionism.
Being privy to every detail of how a client functions in their
own space is a designer’s dream, but by the same token, how
in the world is a designer supposed to manage expectations,
stress and scope creep when the client in question knows
everything they do?
According to designers interviewed by KBDN, while the
process of designing for oneself can be extremely challenging,
it can also be the most rewarding project they’ve ever taken on.

50 Kitchen & Bath Design News • January | February 2024

 Photo: Kortnee Kate Photography
THE HISTORIC & THE CONTEMPORARY
AMY YOUNGBLOOD, AMY YOUNGBLOOD INTERIORS
Upon purchasing her townhome in the historic Grasmoor
House in the Hyde Park neighborhood of Cincinnati,
OH, the eponymous founder and lead designer of Amy
Youngblood Interiors was thrilled about every aspect but the
kitchen. The building, designed in 1941 by renowned New
York City firm Emory Roth and Sons, boasts wood parquet
floors and high ceilings to reflect the grandeur of the Italian
Renaissance – and Youngblood had a vision for the modest
galley that would honor that lofty history while providing her
and her family with much-needed functionality.
“While the process of designing at the highest level for
our clients is imperative, it is especially difficult and even
personal when designing your own space,” Youngblood
notes. “For me the process was definitely more stressful,
as I was the one who was actually seeing the progress daily
and practically obsessed about every detail.” She adds, “I
think most designers feel that way when designing their own
kitchen or space. They tend to second guess their decisions
sometimes where they wouldn’t with a client.”
By removing a structural load-bearing wall between the
existing kitchen and dining room, Youngblood and her
design team were able to create a more spacious kitchen.
The new kitchen offers comfortable eat-in space at the large
waterfall-style island, as well as unobstructed views of the
television in the adjacent sitting room – a perfect recipe for
entertaining.
Youngblood selected perimeter cabinetry with clean lines
and light tones for a contemporary yet timeless aesthetic, com-
plemented by deeper shades in the bar and island area, all of
The focal point of Youngblood’s clean-lined kitchen is the striking pendant, crafted of
which are tied together by linear modern hardware throughout. metal and chiseled slate pieces, suspended above the island.
The perimeter countertops echo the light color scheme, while
the island’s waterfall top features bold veining for an eye-
catching contrast. The crown jewel of the space, and
Youngblood’s favorite feature, is the pendant light fixture above
the island – a contemporary-yet-organic piece by Hubberton BOLD, COZY & UNIQUE
Forge, crafted from metal and suspended chiseled slate. MEREDITH WEISS, MERRI INTERIORS
Although this was not exactly her first rodeo – in fact, she
had worked in tandem with a designer on her first personal
kitchen while she was still in school for interior design in 2001
When she set out on her personal kitchen design journey,
– Meredith Weiss says that it “was actually very hard to do my
Meredith Weiss envisioned a space that would be warm and cozy
own kitchen – much harder than I thought it would be!”
yet adult and sophisticated. A wine storage nook, ambient lighting
and bold dark finishes offer a ‘sexy’ atmosphere. Almost two decades had elapsed between the time the
Long Island-based designer and owner of Merri Interiors gave
Photo: Nicole Larson Photography

input on her first personal kitchen and designed her latest

kitchen, so she was able to bring skills honed over time and
a new vibe to the project. Because she meets with clients in
her home, the new kitchen needed to be “something I’d never
done before, nothing to do with anything that my general
population of clients would want to repeat,” she explains.
The new space needed to showcase her skills and know-how
while being “very uniquely and authentically ‘me,’ and not so
‘kitchen-y.’”
Part of an open-concept floorplan, the project encompassed
not only the kitchen, but also the adjacent dining and living
room. According to Weiss, the design “came to me piecemeal
– I started with the ‘must-haves.’ I definitely wanted base
cabinets with texture and settled on red oak with black paint to
call back to the dark wood floors throughout the house. That
was where it started.”
“The layout was easy – not huge, drastic changes, just
improvements,” she continues. The improvements to the
G-shaped kitchen layout included a wider cooktop and a
less-obtrusive hood. One of the layout elements she was deter-
mined to maintain was the corner sink, which she finds to be
an ideal location for a workstation. “It’s helpful as a sales tool,”

January | February 2024 • KitchenBathDesign.com 51

KITCHEN DESIGN

The above-cabinet plant nook is one of Weiss’s favorite features

Photo: Nicole Larson Photography

of the kitchen, especially when lit up at night.

she notes. “Most clients don’t think they want a corner work-
station sink until they see one.” The workstation also features
reverse-osmosis and instant-hot water.
While she was open to a “white-ish” kitchen, she wanted
to avoid the all-white kitchen that has dominated design for
such a long time. By utilizing a three-color combo – blackish,
warm white and deep chocolate-brown cherry – she was able
to create a cozy yet daring and sexy color scheme even with the
lofty 12' ceilings, as well as “a little bit of a zen or Asian feel
in the space.” The coffee bar just off the kitchen also features
a dark stain to offset the soft white cabinets. This aesthetic is
partially in honor of Weiss’s father, whose city apartment had a
sophisticated and adult “club-like” atmosphere.
While she was looking to make the hood disappear into the
range wall, she still wanted to use that wall as a focal point for
her plant collection. The cream and white planters contrast
elegantly with the dark wood of the above-cabinet nook where
they reside. “My favorite thing about the kitchen is the area
where the plants are,” Weiss says. “When just the LED lights
are lit at night, the glow is just beautiful, like a warm hug.”
Custom-made textural backsplash tile by Encore completes the
Photo: Lilli J Communications
feature wall.

NOT YOUR AVERAGE CAPE COD

LAURIE ANASTOS
The principal owner of Mashpee, MA firm Interior Design
Concepts, Laurie Anastos has crafted gorgeous kitchens for
many clients over the years – and it was her turn to treat her-
self. “Our recent venture into the build of our Cape Cod home
has been nothing short of exceptional, as it has been dubbed
‘not your typical Cape house,’” she says. “Collaborating closely
with my husband and builder, Joseph Anastos, has been a
joyous endeavor, merging our construction and interior design
visions into an extraordinary reality.”
The reimagined kitchen was “conceived to be different
– contemporary and radiantly fun, a departure from the ordi-
nary,” she states. The heart of the space is the island, which
features quartzite Calacatta Macaubas in a semi-waterfall
design that “grounds the entire layout.” Perimeter cabinetry in
a shaker style allows statement wall cabinetry – the Pyramid
Collection by Elmwood in an offset color – to shine, accentuat-
ed with honey bronze hardware throughout.
“Handpicking the right appliances was pivotal in shaping
Laurie Anastos’s remodeled kitchen offers an unexpected and creativity-nourishing our kitchen concept, which is why our choice gravitated to-
twist on a Cape Cod home, with statement wall cabinetry and quartzite countertops in a wards Dacor luxury appliances,” Anastos explains. She select-
semi-waterfall design. ed a range from Dacor’s Modernist Collection to complement
the kitchen’s contemporary aesthetic. She notes that the choice
Photo: Lilli J Communications

of a high-hood range top design “creates an aesthetic sympho-

ny that elevates the entire kitchen ambiance.” A Dacor Micro
Combi Steam Assist – an all-in-one culinary appliance – sees
heavy use in the day-to-day life of the family.
A ”hidden gem” in the space is an open pantry, which
showcases the family’s collection of cookbooks and kitchen
tools for every entertaining need. The open-concept space ben-
efits from an adjacent dining room, which features LED float-
ing shelves, a Dacor open tap wine dispenser and panel-ready
wine storage columns. A feature wall is clad in quartzite
Calacatta Macaubas in a call-back to the island.
Anastos sees her new kitchen as a “true canvas of innova-
tion,’ a space where every detail forms a unique focal point,
weaving together an aura that’s both inviting and cutting-
edge.” She adds a final thought: “Taking a step back and
digesting our recent creation has brought nothing but satisfac-
tion and joy, making our vision a reality to call our own. The
completion of this project has been especially remarkable and
the experience of a lifetime that we are lucky to share with the
evolving interior design and construction industry.” ▪

52 Kitchen & Bath Design News • January | February 2024

COLOR TRENDS

Photo: Janis Nicolay Photography

In this condominium transformation, Jamie Banfield replaced the
previously impersonal white and gray interior with a decidedly more
dramatic, and personalized, color palette that boasts a striking
combination of deep blue and walnut cabinetry.

Color Makes it Personal

Homeowners seem ready to express themselves, and
color is one way they are accomplishing that goal.
BY KIM BERNDTSON

I ncorporating color into a kitchen or bathroom space can

be an intimidating proposition to some homeowners. But
as design continues to move away from monochromatic
white and gray color schemes, more vibrant palettes are
emerging.
“Color is coming in because people want to bring person-
ality into their spaces,” says Jamie Banfield, principal designer,
Jamie Banfield Design in Port Moody, BC, Canada. “They
don’t seem to be as afraid of color right now.”
Erika Woelfel, v.p. of Color & Creative Services at Behr,
agrees, adding, “Consumers are looking at color choice as an
opportunity for empowerment and embracing the self-expres-
sion it can allow. While neutrals will never go out of style, we
anticipate color choices to continue to go bolder beyond 2024.”
Hannah Yeo, senior manager, color marketing at Benjamin
Moore, notes that 2023 ushered in the use of eye-catching
color in the home, which is a trend she anticipates continuing
into 2024. “There is a willingness to explore color and express
personality in the home,” she reports. “With an abundance of
information online, most homeowners are educating them-
selves about color and design. And with that, every design ele-
ment becomes more thoughtful and meaningful to the people
living in the space. We foresee this personalization continuing
beyond 2024. Flexibility, wellness and sustainability are top
of mind, which will certainly impact the colors we surround
ourselves with.”

54 Kitchen & Bath Design News • January | February 2024

 Photos: Robert Norman Photography
Jonathan Gordon sees blue hues moving
Jonathan Gordon, owner/lead designer, Design by the a little lighter, more mid-tone and muted,
Jonathans in New Haven, CT, also loves to incorporate color into such as in this bathroom where a blue van-
his designs, and echoes the sentiment of making each selection ity is complemented with blue and white
purposeful. “I love using color, but, at the same time, I also wallpaper and blue painted walls.
don’t mind not using it,” he remarks. “What I’m looking for is For Gordon, color sometimes arrives in
visual interest. Everything should have a reason to be…accord- unexpected ways, such as a color printed
ing to the French phrase, raison d’être.” onto marble tile, which also offers a bit of
Alexander Adducci, senior designer at 210 Design House in texture. From a distance, it offers just a hint
Chicago, IL, shares the same philosophy about purpose. “For of color, but upon closer inspection, a range
me, it’s all about using color with intention to boost the overall of dusty-hued blue tones can be seen.
ambiance and add to a positive emotional experience,” he states. Many of Gordon’s clients are looking
for variety and a bit of imperfection within
BLUE AND GREEN STILL REIGN a color. For example, in this kitchen, the
As far as trending colors, blues and greens are still at the fore- sunny yellow zellige tile backsplash offers a
front, in part because of their connection to nature, but also range of yellow hues. It also ‘speaks’ to the
because of their ability to soothe and to ‘play’ well with others. island, painted in a bit dustier shade of the
Shades of the hues vary, depending on whom you ask. same colorway.
“We can expect to see a variety of blue hues being used in
2024,” says Brittney Harmond, a representative of Ceramics
of Italy. “It’s a great color for homeowners to embrace. Deep
navy-hued tiles can be used to create a captivating backsplash
or accent wall that adds a touch of drama, while dusty or pale
robin’s egg-hued tiles can evoke a relaxed, spa-like setting.”
“When it comes to greens and blues, we’re leaning into
those deep, moody shades, stepping away from the super bright
hues of the past,” adds Adducci. “On the flip side, lighter tones
contribute to an overall feeling of freshness and expansiveness,
cultivating an airy and inviting atmosphere.”
Gordon sees the hues moving a little lighter, more mid-tone
and muted. “A lot of people are going for a muted blue or green
with a little bit of taupe or gray…earthy tones,” he explains.
“Dusty mixes are in versus pure colors. People are also looking
for a variety of tones within the same color. One solid color
doesn’t cut it. People want to see a variety and a bit of imperfec-
tion so the space doesn’t feel sterile.”
The designer cites tile, especially that which is handmade
such as zellige, as an example where various shades of the same
hue create depth and add texture. “Color sometimes takes a
backseat to texture these days,” he observes. “But it isn’t that you
shouldn’t expect to see color. Color should definitely be part of
it. But it may arrive in unexpected ways, such as an imperfect
texture on top of an existing color like a marble instead of a pure
white, or a slate instead of pure black.”
Gordon also sees color, as well as matte white and black,

January | February 2024 • KitchenBathDesign.com 55

COLOR TRENDS

Darker, bolder hues, such as Cracked

Pepper, Behr’s Color of the Year, can
provide a sense of confidence while
serving as an anchor in the room. In this
kitchen, the dark hue sheaths the island
and pairs with Whipped Cream upper
cabinets and stained base cabinetry.
Photo: Janis Nicolay Photography

making a bolder appearance in appliances. “People are loving

colored appliances,” he says, noting that in his own kitchen
he mixed dark charcoal cabinetry with a French blue range
with brass hardware. “With colored appliances, people aren’t
committing to an entire wall of cabinetry. Instead, they can
bring color forward without doing it in such a permanent way.
The same can be said for accent walls and wallpaper that can be
brought in in beautiful colors.”
Given the neutrality of green and blue, Stephanie Pierce,
director of design and trends with MasterBrand Cabinets,
anticipates the colors to remain popular through 2024 and
beyond, stating, “Not only are these the two easiest colors to
work with from a sense of neutrality, meaning they work well
with many other colors, but they are also highly complementary
to the warmth and wood tones that are in the early days of their
comeback. When there is still movement in the development of
tones as there is for blues and greens, it means the trend is still
evolving and will remain on-trend for a while.”
Banfield also appreciates blues’ and greens’ impartiality.
“They are relatively safe for bringing in personality,” he says.
“They have longevity and are timeless, ‘heritage’ colors that have
been used in kitchens and baths for a very long time. It’s also
easy to pair blues and greens with light- and dark-colored woods
and natural stones such as travertine and unlacquered copper
and brass that we see coming in. And, they can be masculine
or feminine, which makes is easier for a husband and wife to
agree [on a color].”
Meghan Howell, North American design and creative direc-
tor at Formica, adds, “Because we are so familiar with them in
nature, blues and greens are quite easy to work with, so much
so that many even consider them neutrals. As we emerge from
a decade of whites and grays, adding in blues and greens is an
easy first to step to add color back into interiors.”
Jamie Banfield added a punch of dramatic color to this kitchen via the backsplash and She indicates that tones lean towards nature, such as gray
accent wall, which is comprised of dry stacked tile in varying shades of blue to create a subtle blues, sage, mossy or even evergreen greens and deep navies.
ombre effect. “As the colors of the ocean, sky, plants and forests, these hues

56 Kitchen & Bath Design News • January | February 2024

all can lend a nature-inspired tone to the home,” she explains.
“The warming up of interiors and the integration of biophilic
colors like blue and green are natural responses to the fatigue
of decades of white on white, or white and gray interiors.
Trends ebb and flow, with colors rising and falling in popu-
larity every so often, and we’re back to the resurgence of more
colorful interiors.”
Mark Woodman, owner/principal of Mark Woodman
Design + Color in Laurel, MD, echoes the power of Mother
Earth as it relates to design. “Blue and green will continue as
part of the ongoing embrace of nature in the home,” says the
Color Marketing Group member and aesthetics consultant for
Corian Design. “Those two colors, in addition to terracotta, are
the most recognized colors for land, water and air. I am tracking
them to lighten up and offer a bit of color whisper. They will feel
fresh, as though emitting a soft breath or an early bud of green
in the garden. There is a small tinge of innocence and peace as
well. The lighter blues and greens will complement ever-present
whites, as well as burgeoning stained wood.
“In addition, the varying values of terracotta, which are
already making appearances in design, will add a firm visual
connection not only to the planet, but to handcrafted and nat-
ural materials,” he continues. “The color will likely range from Ceramics of Italy expects to see a variety
soft to ruddy orange, the lighter extreme creating a modern take of blue hues being used in 2024. Colors
on the color, while the darker offers a grounded, classic vibe.” can range from deep and dark to spa-like
Sue Wadden, director of color marketing for Sherwin mid-tones.
Williams, reiterates nature’s influence as well, adding, “We’ve
While blue is a hot design trend, Ceram-
seen nature-inspired colors taking over since the beginning of ics of Italy anticipates seeing more pink
this decade. Since these shades are rooted in nature, they are hues as well, ranging from shell-rose to
inherently grounding and calming, which is something home- bold magentas.
owners are craving in this decade.
Upward, Sherwin Williams’ Color of the
“We’re going to see a rise in popularity in either very light
Year, can provide a pop of color without
shades or very deep shades, like deep navy blues and light breezy
being too much, with its breezy blue hue
blues being equally as popular,” she continues. “We’ve also seen evoking a sense of tranquility in the home.
a rise in popularity in wooden accents, which work well with
light blues and light neutrals to create a coastal chic aesthetic,
which we think will be the new ‘it’ trend in coming years.”
In support, the paint company selected Upward, a light
breezy blue, as its 2024 Color of the Year, which Wadden
indicates is a great choice for kitchen cabinets and bathroom
vanities because it offers a pop of color, without being too much.
“Upward also evokes a sense of tranquility and peace in the
home,” she relates. “We anticipate that 2024 will be a charged
year so people will be seeking peacefulness wherever they can,
especially in their homes. To find this peacefulness, colors that
evoke joy and calmness will be big in the coming year.”
Likewise, Benjamin Moore chose a blue hue, Blue Nova,
as its Color of the Year. An intriguing blend of blue and violet,
Yeo relates that it sparks adventure, elevates the everyday and
expands horizons. “It has a duality that bridges the warm and
cool, and light and dark, which reflects the current sentiment:
the need to explore and express oneself with the undercurrent
of comfort and reassurance,” she says. “Blue Nova is fantastic
on cabinetry…think of a kitchen island, base cabinets or a
vanity. It also offers an opportunity to be creative by using it to
drench a room in color or define a portion of a room with its
captivating hue.”
As the paint company’s color team considered color trends,
Yeo indicates that two themes emerged: travel and juxtaposition
of light against dark and warm against cool.
“As a macro trend, we found that a major source of color
inspiration is travel,” she explains. “Whether it’s a road trip
to a nearby destination or to outer space, our Color of the
Year and our Color Trends palette spark adventure and invite
consumers to explore the extraordinary that bring people to
new places and experiences. Likewise, there’s a story of duality
that showcases complementary and contrasting color pairings.

January | February 2024 • KitchenBathDesign.com 57

COLOR TRENDS
Photo: Janis Nicolay Photography
Designed as a space for the homeowners to hang out with their
grandchildren, this kitchen by Jamie Banfield included a large island,
painted a dark blue, to ground the room. Blue, as a ‘heritage’ color,
will stand the test of time and it easily pairs with the dark wood
accents and black cabinetry hardware.
Interesting combinations came through that relate back to col-
or relationships on the color wheel that play with saturation,
value and undertone, making them memorable.”
Banfield has also noticed the influence of travel on color
choices within the home. “The way the world has been the last
couple of years with regard to the pandemic, being outdoors
is important, so people are interested in showcasing different
elements from the outdoors…such as matte finishes, plants,
beach wood…we’re craving an organicness,” he stresses. “But
we’re also seeing color coming through because people are
reminiscing about vacations and experiences, such as dining
in a fine restaurant, drinking a cocktail at a bar or sipping a
coffee in a coffee shop. Details they see, like a harvest table or
green stools, find their way into their spaces.”
Likewise, Pierce notes that cultural or generational shifts
highly influence style trends. “Younger generations are more
quickly embracing a shift from minimalism to more tradition-
al style enhancements, and the embracing of multi-cultural
influence brings us pops of color, textures and patterns,” she
says. “I, not so secretly, love that wallpaper is back!”
Interestingly, but maybe not surprisingly, Adducci notes
the power of the fashion industry on color choices. “I think
home color choices, today, are a blend of personal expression
and influences from the fashion industry,” he explains. “My
clients increasingly draw inspiration from their own tastes,
all while mirroring the trends in the fashion world. Whether
replicating the tonal look of a brocade jacket, or incorporating
bold metallic details, the connection between personal style
and home aesthetics is apparent. It just takes Valentino to put
out that red, and then the color is everywhere!”
58 Kitchen & Bath Design News • January | February 2024
WARMTH AHEAD
While blues and greens are expected to remain popular, many
experts within the design industry are seeing other colors join
them, especially any hues that lean warm and/or work well
with wood.
“As I look ahead to what homeowners are loving, there’s a
clear pull towards the cozy vibes of medium wood tones and
comforting warm whiskey colors, especially in kitchens and
baths,” reports Adducci.
As an example, Pantone’s Color of the Year is Peach Fuzz,
a warm and velvety shade. “Greens and blues will always factor
into consumer preferences and choices as they are universal
favorites,” says Leatrice Eiseman, executive director for the
Pantone Color Institute, noting that the hues are heavily fea-
tured in the Pantone View Home forecast for 2024.
However, the institute notes that, at a time of turmoil in
many aspects of people’s current lives, there is a need for
nurturing, empathy and compassion. “A cozy peach hue softly
nestled between pink and orange, Peach Fuzz brings belonging,
inspires recalibration and an opportunity for nurturing, con-
juring up an air of calm, offering us a space to be, feel and heal
and to flourish…” she continues. “Drawing comfort from Peach
Fuzz, we can find peace from within, impacting our wellbeing.
An idea as much as a feeling, Peach Fuzz awakens our senses to
the comforting presence of tactility and cocooned warmth.”
Woelfel agrees that nature-inspired hues like blue and green
will remain a popular choice for bathrooms and kitchens, not-
ing they are part of Behr’s 2024 Color Trends palette. “But we
also anticipate warm colors to be highlighted in 2024, as oranges
and yellows can stimulate enthusiasm, energy and creativity in
spaces,” she remarks. “Overall, there will be a leaning towards
warmer and earthier colors that energize a room.”
As well, she indicates that color experts at the paint company
see consumers being drawn to darker and bolder hues, such as
Cracked Pepper, Behr’s 2024 Color of the Year.
“While the trend of previous years of seeking comfort and
belonging in our spaces will continue to drive design decisions,
Photos: Martin Knowles Media

in 2024, life is returning to its normal rhythms, which is creat- The sisters who live in this home wanted to bring in color, and personality, so Jamie
ing a new desire to awaken the senses in the home,” she says. Banfield obliged by including green-colored perimeter cabinetry in the kitchen that invokes a
sense of harvest and nature. In one of the bathrooms, the designer also included hand-glazed
“Darker and bolder hues throughout the home can provide a
tile in a lighter green hue that extends the feeling of nature, without being overwhelming.
sense of confidence while serving as an anchor in the room.
Our Cracked Pepper can be used as an accent color for cabinets,
or the soft black can wrap around all of the walls for a simple
statement.”
Color experts at PPG Architectural Finishes’ Glidden have
also noticed a shift. “We’ve seen greens and blues be the ‘it’
shades for so many years,” states Ashley McCollum, Glidden
paint by PPG color expert. “They have the natural ability to calm,
soothe, heal and bring organic energy into a space, and they are
part of our palette of 10 trending colors that we create to help con-
sumers pair colors with our Color of the Year selection, Limitless.
But with our research for 2024 and beyond, we’re starting to see
shades other than blue and green take center stage.”
Case in point is Limitless, a warm honey beige that offers
an energizing take on a neutral, and the company’s Color of the
Year runner-up, Sweet Spiceberry, a bold, warm, red-brown.
“We’re definitely seeing color lean toward warmth, with dustier
tones pulling through…more so than we’ve seen in previous
years,” reports McCollum.
She attributes that move to consumers’ interest in versatile
and timeless colors that can stand on their own, or support
other colors that are already in the home. “It’s about creating a
cozy, welcoming environment while also expressing oneself,”
she explains. “We’re entering a new era of explosive creativity
and change where consumers have an unmatched desire to “As we’re coming out of a decade or more of white, white
really express themselves, to have a deeper sense of self identity and more white, it’s refreshing to see countertops with more
and connection to the environment. So, Limitless really offers depth to their color and texture,” states Howell. “Light coun-
consumers limitless ways to use it. It can be whatever they want tertops are warming up with creams, beiges and browns, and
it to be.” even a gray top may lean on the warmer side. Marble patterns
The honey beige also pairs well with the warmth being seen now have brown or terracotta veining instead of gray and black.
in other elements within the home, including plumbing and In general, we’re seeing countertop colors will be lighter than
lighting fixtures and cabinetry hardware, all of which are cur- cabinets, with a matte or honed texture. These colors work
rently trending towards gold and brass, as well as countertops, nicely with wood and painted cabinets, as well as the range of
cabinetry and tile. hardware materials being selected today.”

January | February 2024 • KitchenBathDesign.com 59

COLOR TRENDS

Glidden’s Color of the Year, Limitless, offers an energizing take on

a neutral and exemplifies a general trend towards warmer hues that
can be used to create a cozy, welcome environment while express-
ing oneself.

As well, Pierce is seeing an evolution of white into beige.

“These won’t be boring beiges, but rather soft mocha tones As Alexander Adducci looks ahead, he foresees a surge in
that can still behave as neutrally as white, while also bringing softer, more neutral hues that satisfy a growing desire for tranquility
in additional warmth to spaces,” she explains. “I don’t see the and calming spaces in Zen-like environments. Those neutrals lean
preferences towards neutrals going away anytime soon, but I do towards cozy vibes of wood and whiskey.
think colors are softening. There is more neutrality in muted
hues, which opens up the opportunity for mixing and building
more interesting and complex palettes.”
Adducci and Gordon also appreciate the power of neutrals,
and their ability to mix effectively with color.
“I think we’re going into a neutral phase,” says Gordon. “But
that’s not to say that neutral and bold can’t coexist because neu-
trals have become colorful. Solid, flat gray has disappeared, but
dark gray and textured gray, like concrete and plaster, are ‘in.’
And beige and taupe aren’t like those we saw in the ’90s. They
have come into their own.”
Adducci adds, “There’s always room for bold and bright
tones to make a statement, but I foresee a surge in softer,
more neutral hues because there’s a growing appreciation for
tranquility and a desire to create calming spaces and Zen-like
Photos: 210 Design House

environments. The evolving design landscape seems to embrace

both ends of the spectrum…allowing for vibrant pops in design
details and furnishings and soothing neutrals in investment
pieces to provide that timeless touch.”
Ceramics of Italy also sees both ends of the spectrum.
Warm, neutral-hued materials that look like stone and wood
with authentic veins, grooves and depressions are popular for
creating spa-like environments. But Harmond indicates that
Italian tile manufacturers are also getting more experimentative
and playful, introducing mesmerizing and colorful marble and
onyx varieties not found in nature, alongside smaller formats in
bright and vibrant colors such as orange and purple.
“Pink hues are on the rise as well,” she continues. “More
and more, we’re seeing large gemstone-inspired tiles alongside
glossy ceramic brick formats in a variety of pink hues ranging
from shell-rose to bold magentas.”
Regardless of what is considered on-trend, in the end con-
sumers select what fits them best, indicate many of the experts.
“Inevitably, consumers will go to the colors that fit their
comfort level,” says Eiseman. “That is why the Pantone View
forecast features seven palettes, each expressing different
moods and variations of color that will appeal to the end user.”
Likewise, Woodman adds, “I think that variety tells the story.
The macro trends can help drive the narratives, but at the end of
the day, consumers need their spaces to reflect their aspirations
and their stories, so a dark color from Behr and a light color
from Beauti-Tone speak to valid stories and allow consumers
breadth in where they fit in.”
Nevertheless, he looks forward to color being used unexpect-
edly. “I am watching for some brighter colors, not juvenile, but
fun,” he relates. “I call that story Joie! (or Joy!). Think of the colors
of French macarons or festive doughnuts. Lime, violet, bright
sky blue and pink will be a part of a color world designed to elicit
smiles and giggles. I think of the word ‘fizzy’ to encompass the
unmitigated joy being sought. They will be perfect for accessories
and unexpected places like ceilings, inside cabinetry and furni-
ture. How fun to open a kitchen drawer in a white kitchen and
have the inside burst with bright pink or kiwi green!” ▪

60 Kitchen & Bath Design News • January | February 2024

DPHA AWARDS

Luxury Leaders
THERE’S SOMETHING ABOUT luxury products for the
kitchen and bath that can elevate the whole design of the space. Whether
it’s captivating, dual-finish hardware, sculptural tubs and sinks, or bath
furniture with dramatic detail, the right piece can take a design from
special to spectacular.
And, let’s not forget the exceptional elements that add to the overall
experience within that space. Lavish steam showers, touchless faucets and
luxurious lighting are just a few examples of how upscale products can
enhance daily living.
The Bethesda, MD-based Decorative Plumbing & Hardware
Association focuses its time on the products and companies involved in
the luxury plumbing and hardware markets. Each year, it honors excep-
tional new products through its Product of the Year Awards, which recog-
nize the uniqueness, design, functionality, innovation and technological
superiority of luxury plumbing and hardware.
For the 2023 DPHA Awards, an independent panel of judges – ex-
perts in the field of design and construction – was chosen and included:
Eliot Sefrin, founding editor and publisher emeritus of Kitchen & Bath
Design News; Alissa Ponchione, executive editor at Hospitality Design
magazine; Molly Switzer, creator, Molly N. Switzer Designs in Portland,
OR; Alena Capra, owner, Alena Capra Designs in Fort Lauderdale, FL;
Eric Goranson, CKD, producer and host of “Around the House with Eric
G,” and Garrison Hullinger, founder and principal designer, Garrison
Hullinger Interior Design.
Award winners were presented in nine separate categories: Bathroom
Fixture, Kitchen Fixture, Innovative Engineering, Water Delivery,
Furniture, Accessory, Cabinet Hardware, Door Hardware and Innovative
Technology. The Products of the Year were announced at the 22nd Annual
DPHA Conference and Product Showcase held in October 2023 in
Chicago, IL. ▪

Bathroom Fixture
WINNER

Hydro Systems:
Cold Plunge
The Cold Plunge bath by Hydro
Systems offers revitalizing cold
hydrotherapy in a traditional
tub, using cooling, filtration
and sanitation to deliver cold,
clean water that can be reduced
down to 37°F. Cold hydrother-
apy involves soaking in water HONORABLE MENTION
59°F or below to achieve health
benefits such as reducing pain ALFI Trade: HammockTub2
and inflammation, increasing The elevated HammockTub2 bathtub from ALFI Trade
metabolism, and accelerating is made of solid surface resin that retains heat for a
muscle and joint recovery after longer bathing experience. The fixture, which is avail-
a workout, notes the firm. The able in black or white matte in a variety of shapes and
technology can be fully inte- sizes, hangs suspended from the floor mimicking the
grated into nearly any Hydro luxuriating design of a hammock. The tub features wide
Systems tub. edges and full-length metal support beams to ensure
hydrosystem.com stable installation. | alfitrade.com

Kitchen Fixture
WINNER HONORABLE MENTION

California Faucets: Mountain Plumbing

Kitchen Bridge Faucets Products: Stealth Waste
The Kitchen Bridge Faucets from California Faucets Disposer with Stealth Trap
are thoughtfully designed to meet a range of styles, Keeping storage space in mind,
including Traditional, Contemporary, Industrial Mountain Plumbing Products offers the
and Transitional, according to the company. The Stealth Waste Disposer with Stealth
faucets are available in over 25 artisan finishes Trap which, according to the company,
with multiple handle options, as well as with or has more power and torque with a 41%
without an insulated, mixed-temperature match- smaller footprint under the sink compared to the leading compe-
ing side sprayer. Coordinated accessories include tition. To further maximize the usable space under the sink, every
water dispensers, soap dispensers, garbage dis- Stealth disposer includes a complementary Stealth Trap with every-
poser switches and air gaps, as well as cabinet and thing needed to hook up a single-bowl or double-bowl kitchen sink
appliance hardware. | calfaucets.com and then connect to a garbage disposer. | mountainplumbing.com

62 Kitchen & Bath Design News • January | February 2024

Innovative Engineering

HONORABLE MENTION

Brizo: Mystix Steam System

WINNER
Effe Perfect Wellness: INSIDE Internal Steam Generator
Designed to be installed inside the shower just a few centimeters above the floor for a minimally
intrusive presence, the INSIDE mini internal steam generator from Effe Perfect Wellness con-
tains a boiler and diffuser in one compact panel. The unit features intuitive commands and LED
RGB lighting at the bottom for added ambience. Available in 3 and 4.5 kW for volumes up to 4.5
m3, INSIDE comes in two versions: INSIDE GLASS and INSIDE CAMOUFLAGE. | effe.it
The Mystix Steam System creates a spa and wellness expe-
rience in the shower, notes Brizo. Two curated experiences
are part of the system, each featuring the Mystix Steam
Generator and a wide range of finishes. The Mystix Elemen-
tal Experience allows the user to tailor the steam shower to
exact preferences with two user presets, while the Mystix
Transcendent Experience combines the Elemental Experi-
ence with the Digital Interface with up to 12 presets and a
full suite of spa options including aromatherapy, chroma-
therapy and audiotherapy. | brizo.com

Water Delivery
HONORABLE MENTION

Franz Viegener:
Groovy
Named for its deep grooves
and aesthetically pleasing
curves, the Groovy Collec-
tion of bathroom faucets
showcases precision en-
gineering and streamlined
design, notes Franz Viege-
ner. The sleek, distinctive
silhouette pays homage to
the 1960’s phrase ‘groovy’
as well as the coinciding
resurgence of art deco design. The faucets and spouts feature continuous
grooves from base to spout. Groovy is available in 12 finishes including PVD.
franzviegener.com

HONORABLE MENTION

Tenzo Fine Plomberie:

PALT74-BG
The PALT74-BG wall-mount bathtub
filler from Tenzo Fine Plomberie high-
lights two distinctive features: a 59" re-
WINNER
tractable hand shower hose and a 180°
Gessi: ORIGINI swivel spout. The tub filler delivers 7.9
The ORIGINI collection of bathroom faucets from Gessi includes an array of gpm with 60 PSI and includes a Vernet
colors, shapes and finishes. A series of five triads using distinctive chromatic thermostatic cartridge and a diverter
groupings that represent iconic themes are featured. The faucets themselves valve with two functions. It is offered
are each sculpted into silhouettes and finished in chrome and matte surfaces, in chrome, brushed gold, gun metal,
glossy hues including Ocra, Coral, Black, and distinctive metallics of copper, matte black and champain gold.
nickel, bronze and brass. | gessi.com tenzo.ca

January | February 2024 • KitchenBathDesign.com 63

DPHA AWARDS
Accessory
WINNER
Madeli: Illusion Lighted Mirrored Cabinet
The Illusion collection of recessed-mount medicine cabinets from Madeli features an accent
frame that delivers a clean, minimal design. The lighted perimeter frame allows the door to op-
erate independently, and the Acrylens light diffuser offers three-directional lighting – frontal,
side glow and interior lighting. Dimmable at the touch, the Lumen Touch+ Switch Technology
offers warm 2700k or daylight 4000k task lighting. Also included are built-in defogger, 120V
and USB outlets, magnifying mirror, cosmetic tray and cell phone holder.
madeli.com
HONORABLE MENTION
Amba Products:
Quadro 2033 in Brushed Bronze
From Amba Products comes the Quadro 2033 towel warmer in brushed bronze finish, added to
coordinate with plumbing fixture finishes. The unit can warm two towels at once, with a digital
heat controller delivering nine different heat output levels. The hardwired unit is designed to be
on continuously. It is also available in brushed stainless, matte black and polished stainless.
ambaproducts.com
64 Kitchen & Bath Design News • January | February 2024
Furniture
WINNER
Hastings Tile & Bath: Allegro Console
Italian design is reflected in the Allegro floor-mount basin
console, part of the Hastings Bath Collection from Hast-
ings Tile & Bath. Offered in 44 diverse colors, this series
is hallmarked by its bush hammer textured exterior and
smooth inner basin. The matte black frame with accented
brass feet holds the stone sink with contoured basin edge
detailing. The console also provides functional storage
with a lower shelf that matches the basin finish.
hastingsbathcollection.com
HONORABLE MENTION
Lacava: Flutti
Lacava’s Flutti Collection showcases wall-mount vanities
with fluted design in 24", 30", 36", 48", 60" and 72", provid-
ing a range of options to fit different spaces. Countertops
are available in a selection of finishes in quartz, marble or
solid surface and are cut to fit an undermount porcelain
sink. Decorative hardware is included as a finishing touch
and is available in multiple finishes.
lacava.com
Cabinet Hardware
WINNER
Baldwin Hardware:
Modern Cabinet Hardware Collection
The full Modern Cabinet Hardware Collection from Bald-
win Hardware sports a sleek design. A key driver of the
collection, the 4" is available with three center-to-center
options to support pre-existing drilled cabinets – 3" CTC,
3.5" CTC or 4" CTC – showcased vertically or horizontal-
ly. The collection’s elongated pulls provide flexibility and
are available in a range of sizes and finishes.
baldwinhardware.com
Door Hardware
WINNER
Baldwin Hardware: Graphite Nickel Finish
An exploration into darker nickel tones, the Graphite Nickel Finish
by Baldwin Hardware is a new-to-market finish that takes histor-
ical cues from the antique nickels and pewters in the traditional
space and expands to a broader mix of transitional and contem-
porary tones, notes the firm. The finish joins Baldwin’s portfolio
of Lifetime PVD finishes, offering durability, corrosion resistance
and color retention, states the firm.
baldwinhardware.com
HONORABLE MENTION
Keeler Brass Company:
Anthology Series
The Anthology Series is the first product line to
relaunch the 130-year legacy of the Keeler Brass
Company, notes the firm. Designed in-house
and fashioned from American-made solid brass,
the hardware is available in array of styles and
finishes. The posts, bar and finishes can be
chosen from over 30,000 combinations, with
textures and a palette of leather options offered.
The line includes appliance pulls, bar pulls,
t-knob, offset t-knob and round knob.
keelerbrasscompany.com
HONORABLE MENTION
Croft Architectural
Hardware: Pocket Door
Jamb Bolt
The Pocket Door Jamb Bolt from Croft
Architectural Hardware is designed to
prevent a pocket door from opening.
Featuring a stylish design, the bolt is a
premium solution for high-end projects
available in over 25 signature finishes
and patinas, notes the firm. When the
top of the lever is pushed, the lever will
make contact with the strike plate on
the frame of the door.
croft.co.uk
January | February 2024 • KitchenBathDesign.com
Innovative
Technology
WINNER
Robern: Tenor Lighting
and Sway Light Control
Tenor Tunable Lighting with Robern’s
proprietary SWAY Control combines
modular vertical lighting with dim-
ming and color tuning technology for
control over the bathroom lighting
environment. Flicker-free LED light-
ing is dimmable to 5% to provide the
correct brightness for any task, notes
the firm, and color temperature can
be fine-tuned from the soft tones of
warm white (2700K) through bright
white (5600K) tones for daylight.
robern.com
HONORABLE MENTION
MrSteam: iSteamX Control
MrSteam’s iSteam X combines
WiFi connectivity with a native app
environment experience in the steam
shower and can be connected to a
song playlist or podcast, chroma light-
ing and aromatherapy. The unit’s de-
sign delivers a tailored steam bathing
experience via a steam control with a
completely sealed electronic assem-
bly design to live in the hot, humid
steam environment. The rear angle of
the bezel helps to divert condensation
that forms on the steam room walls
away from the control.
mrsteam.com
65
 2023 GOLD WINNER
DESIGNHOME STUDIOS

2023 GOLD WINNER 2023 SILVER WINNER

MICHELLE MILLER DESIGN ONE COAST DESIGN
 2023 GOLD WINNER
B.A. WORTHING, INC.

2023 GOLD WINNER 2023 GOLD WINNER

ADRIEL DESIGNS LEE WETHERINGTON HOMES

CALL FOR ENTRIES

You’re an artist, so give your kitchen and bath designs the spotlight they deserve!
Enter your projects in our ninth annual Kitchen & Bath Design Awards for a
chance to win industry-wide recognition.
AWARD CATEGORIES: WINNERS RECEIVE:
• Best Kitchen over $250,000 • Industry-wide recognition in August issue of
• Best Kitchen $175,000 to $250,000 Kitchen & Bath Design News and on our website
KitchenBathDesign.com
• Best Kitchen $100,000 to $175,000
• Promotional package including the “Award Winner”
• Best Kitchen under $100,000 logo and press release
• Best Specialty Kitchen • Gold, Silver or Bronze award plaque
• Best Master Bathroom over $125,000
• Best Master Bathroom $75,000-$125,000 COMPLETE DETAILS & REGISTRATION:

• Best Master Bathroom under $75,000 KBDNawards.com

• Best Powder Room Registration deadline is May 17, 2024
Completed entry deadline is May 31, 2024
• Best Independent Showroom Projects must have been completed between
• Best Specialty Project November 1, 2021, and May 31, 2024
PRODUCT TREND REPORT

Stylish
Workstations
Kitchen sink and faucet trends center around
highly functional and visually pleasing elements
BY ELIZABETH RICHARDS

California Faucets has expanded its
kitchen line to include the Bridge Kitch-
en Faucet Collection, which features
a two-hole design inspired by fittings
from the mid-to-late 1800s. The style
is available in the several styles in a
choice of arc or quad spouts, with a
myriad of handle options and finishes.
calfaucets.com
The Zest-K.1290 kitchen faucet from
Isenberg showcases high-arched spout
and minimalist lever. The pull-down
faucet has a dual-function spray. ADA-
and WaterSense-compliant, the faucet
features a flow rate of 1.8 gpm at 60 psi.
Finishes include Brushed Gold, Stainless
Steel and a range of colors.
isenbergfaucets.com
BLANCO’s CATRIS Flexo Filter Faucet is
a filter-ready, semi-professional faucet
with pull-down dual-spray and a mag-
netic docking arm that delivers filtered
water through a discreet waterspout.
A single lever delivers tap water and a
separate dial offers access cold filtered
water.
blanco.com
Peerless has added the Matte Black
finish to its Parkwood Kitchen Collec-
tion, delivering a modern flair to the
transitionally styled faucet. The kitchen
faucet is available as a single-handle
pull-down, single-handle pullout,
two-handle fitting and two-handle
fitting with spray.
peerlessfaucet.com

W
ith their essential role in food preparation and clean up,
kitchen sinks and faucets can’t be an afterthought. And
though their functional capacity is critical, the aesthetic of the
water station is also important, serving either as a focal point or
blending seamlessly into the kitchen.
“Overall, homeowners want their kitchen environments to be a
sociable, welcoming place for healthy living, with simple, clean designs,”
says Justin Storm, director of category management at House of Rohl
in Irvine, CA. “Trending kitchen sink and faucet styles tend to evoke a
transitional, timeless look with contemporary and organic designs. In par-
ticular, workstation sinks are becoming increasingly popular, and faucets
that create a focal point within the space are trending.”
Workstation sinks are in high demand, adding flexibility and function-
ality to the kitchen sink area. Gabby Vonigas, director of sales – southeast
for The Galley, based in Tulsa, OK, remarks, “The Galley is the category
creator and the Original Kitchen Workstation and, since the launch of the
brand, we have seen a significant departure from traditional sinks towards
our pioneering kitchen workstations. We firmly believe that the future of
kitchens will increasingly discard conventional kitchen sinks in favor of
kitchen workstations.”
Finish and style are highly individual choices, dependent on personal
style and space. A combination of styles is becoming more prevalent in
the kitchen sink area. “Every space is different, but we see a lot of style
mixing between sink/faucet color, finishes and textures no matter the size
of the space. With both small and large kitchen layouts, we find people
are choosing products that give them an emotional feeling, whether it’s
‘dopamine décor,’ nostalgic pulls or personal expression,” offers Maris
Borris, industrial designer for Delta Faucet in Indianapolis, IN.
Other top considerations for kitchen sinks and faucets include tech-
nology that enhances convenience and hygiene, growing interest in matte
finishes and composite sinks, and putting space to its best possible use.
That’s according to manufacturers recently surveyed by Kitchen & Bath
Design News.
EFFICIENT WORKSPACE
One of the largest trends manufacturers see for both sinks and faucets
is a desire to do more in a single space. From prep to clean up, sinks
and faucets that are set up for multiple functions make the work of the
kitchen easier.
Borris notes that consumers are choosing kitchen products that are
functional and drive experiences within the space. “For example, work-
station sinks and glass rinsers are becoming more and more popular
because they are designed to enhance the process and experience. These
helpful innovations can benefit all users in the home in different ways

68 Kitchen & Bath Design News • January | February 2024

The Gherdy 33" Fireclay Farmer sink
from Barclay Products features a
curved front and spacious single-bowl
design, and the fireclay material pro-
vides a smooth, waveless surface that
is non-porous and resists heat, stains
and cracking, notes the firm. The sink
accommodates a 3-1/2" drain.
barclayproducts.com
The ROHL Apothecary Kitchen
Collection by House of Rohl draws
its inspiration from the shapes of old
apothecary bottles. Designer Xander
Noori incorporated chamfered details,
beveled edges and balanced arcs,
resulting in a silhouette of contoured
elegance, notes the firm.
houseofrohl.com
Featuring a sleek silhouette, the Futuris-
mo kitchen faucet collection pays hom-
age to Futurism, with spiral details that
evoke the architectural movement’s
emphasis on incorporating curves.
Graff’s faucet line is available in finishes
such as Polished Brass, Polished Nickel
and Onyx, including dual-tone options.
graff-designs.com
Kraus’ Touch-Activated Faucets with
TapFlow technology allow the user to
turn the faucet on and off with a gentle
touch anywhere on the body or spout.
The faucet’s design helps reduce germ
transfer when cleaning up, the compa-
ny notes. The technology is available in
multiple universal designs.
kraususa.com

Native Trails has expanded its Ital-
ian-made Precious Metals kitchen sink
offerings to include a new Gunmetal
finish. The dark glaze is cultivated
through a proprietary blend of genuine
gold, silver and platinum. The collection
is made up of five designs including
Rendezvous (shown).
nativetrailshome.com
The apron-front farmhouse single bowl
sink from Hardware Resources is hand
made from stainless steel. The large
bowl features 15-degree radius corners
and an added layer of insulation to
reduce sound. The brushed satin finish
is easy to clean and helps camouflage
small scratches, notes the company.
hardwareresources.com
The Dart Canyon stainless steel
farmhouse sink from Elkay features
a workstation design and includes a
reversible grid, drain cover and drain,
with cutting board, large colander and
small colander sold separately. The sink
features dual shallow depths and tight
corners, and is ADA-compliant.
elkay.com
The Tenet kitchen faucet from Pfister
Faucets features a high-arc swivel
spout and pull-down spray head with
toggle button to select stream or spray.
MagnePfit magnetic docking keeps
the spray head secured. Finish options
include Polished Chrome, Polished
Nickel, Brushed Gold and Matte Black.
pfisterfaucets.com

and are designed to evolve with life,” she remarks.
Mark Webster, v.p. at Karran, based in Vincennes, IN notes that cus-
tomers are looking for a multi-faceted food prep station. “We are seeing
more and more sinks being offered with a wide array of useful accessories
that integrate into the sink. These accessories enhance the functional-
ity of the sink and make kitchen tasks more convenient. Not only are
accessories included to enhance dishwashing, but food prep items such as
cutting boards and colanders are included, making the sinks an all-in-one
food prep and washing station,” he reports.
“More consumers are also requesting innovative, personalized prod-
ucts within their homes,” adds Storm. “For example, customizable sinks
designed as a workstation to include cutting boards, drying racks and
strainers make for seamless cooking and cleanup for day-to-day use or for
hosting friends and family.”
Jake Khoury, managing member at Nantucket Sinks based in North
Kingstown, RI, adds that the company sees interest in rectangular sinks
with accessory ledges for cutting boards. “Cutting boards seem to be the
number one accessory asked for,” he observes.
Faucets with multiple capabilities are also in demand, manufacturers
say. “We continue to see a preference for sleek, multi-functional faucets
that offer versatility and customization options to suit various kitchen
styles and preferences,” stresses Danyel Tiefenbacher, senior brand
manager for Pfister Faucets in Lake Forest, CA.
“Something new and growing in popularity is the all-in-one faucet,
meaning it delivers filtered, chilled, boiling and even sparkling water. It’s
considered an intelligent and innovative faucet for the kitchen,” Webster
explains.
There’s also an emphasis on water filtration systems and filtered water
faucets that mount next to the kitchen faucet, adds Jeff Bierman, v.p. of
sales at Dallas, TX-based Isenberg. “Leading sink companies are bundling
these options together,” he says.
TIMELESS COMBINATIONS
While there are a range of options for faucet finish, the most popular
choices are consistent with long-time trends. Manufacturers say there is
also an uptick in demand for mixed finishes.
“The most common and dependable choice for kitchen faucets still
seems to be in the stainless steel/brushed nickel category. It’s been
around a long time and ties in well with stainless steel sinks,” offers
Webster. “For those looking to add some pizzazz to their kitchen sink
area, matte black, gunmetal gray and brushed gold are popular choices.
And now customers are excited about mixed finishes, where a faucet
comes with two finishes, such as matte black and brushed gold com-
bined.” Style-wise, he continues, industrial-style faucets with features like

January | February 2024 • KitchenBathDesign.com 69

PRODUCT TREND REPORT

Handcrafted in the U.S., The Galley
developed the workstation sink, which
allows the user to prepare, cook, serve,
entertain and wash in one central place.
The Galley workstation sinks are avail-
able in a variety of sizes with a range of
included accessories such as a drying
rack, cutting boards and more.
thegalley.com
The Lura pull-down kitchen faucet is
part of the Lura Collection designed by
Clodagh for Speakman. A two-function
sprayer provides an aerated stream and
a spray pattern for wide rinsing. Finish-
es include Polished Chrome, Brushed
Bronze and Matte Black.
speakman.com
In keeping with the increased interest
in metals and natural materials in the
home, Thompson has added elevated
designs like the Quiroga Smooth Brass
Kitchen Sink. Each sink is handcrafted
by artisans and finished in the compa-
ny’s signature semi-satin brass with a
sleek, luxurious finish.
thompsontraders.com
Moen’s Tenon kitchen faucet col-
lection is influenced by the Japandi
style, showcasing a simplified design
with Japanese textures and natural
elements such as a teak wood handle.
It is available as a pull-down faucet,
Smart Faucet with Motion Control and
a pull-down bar faucet.
moen.com

Inspired by the design of professional
kitchens, the Georgetown Pull-Down
Kitchen Faucet from KOVA features
a high arch, exposed spring design.
Its multifunction spray head provides
control and flexibility, notes the firm.
The faucet is available in a range of
standard and custom finishes.
kovaproducts.com
The Kitchen Program, newly launched
by Watermark Designs, includes
monoblocks, pull-out sprays, pull-
down sprays, instant hot and filtered
water dispensers, prep faucets and pot
fillers. Each piece is crafted in Brooklyn.
Sixteen collections and ancillary pieces
are available.
watermark-designs.com
The QAWS-740 34" Undermount
Large Single Bowl Farmhouse Worksta-
tion Sink from Karran features a classic
apron-front design and deep, 9-¼"
bowl. The sink is made from a quartz
composite material and is available in a
choice of six rich colors. It comes with a
complete set of accessories.
karran.com
Offered in various finish options and
metal or wood lever handle, Brizo’s
Odin Semi-Professional Kitchen Faucet
is shown in Brilliance Polished Gold
with Wood Lever Handle. The faucet is
available with the company’s MagneD-
ock Technology as well as SmartTouch
Technology and Voice Activation.
brizo.com

exposed coils and angular designs are still trending upward. “These are
contemporary looks that complement modern kitchens,” he says.
“Popular finishes for faucets still include stainless steel, matte black
and polished chrome,” agrees Tiefenbacher. “Minimalist, sleek designs
with pull-down or pull-out sprayers and smart features like touchless
controls continue to be in demand,” he adds.
“Matte and brushed faucet finishes in gold, stainless and black shades
are very popular with designers and homeowners because they create a
warm atmosphere within the kitchen,” says Storm.
“For faucets, special finishes are continuing to take share within
both the kitchen and bath,” notes Borris. “Matte black finishes are still a
mainstay, and the champagne bronze finishes continue to grow year over
year. In fact, matte black and champagne bronze were the top kitchen and
bathroom finishes overall.”
“Many believe their primary kitchen faucet is a statement piece in
their kitchens – the jewelry of the space This is often a place for self-ex-
pression in design,” Borris adds.
“A growing number of kitchen faucets are available in satin stainless,
satin brass, satin gold and matte black to join the ever-reliable chrome and
brushed nickel,” reports Bierman. “A new class of semi-pro ‘coiled’ kitch-
en faucets feature true pull-down capabilities, while two-handle bridge
faucets are evolving into the modern and transitional design realms.”
COMPLEMENTARY COLORS
According to manufacturers, stainless sinks remain the top choice but
there is growing interest in composite and fireclay sinks as well.
“For sinks, stainless is a popular, timeless choice,” offers Bierman.
“Quartz composite and fireclay materials have grown in configurations,
sizes and colors and are available from a growing number of manufactur-
ers, including Elkay, Blanco, Bocchi and Hamat. We are seeing exciting
color options in quartz sinks and fireclay, with some companies like
Isenberg offering color-matched kitchen faucets, soap dispensers and air
switches.”
Webster says that stainless steel remains the market leader, due to its
durability, versatility in design, and the fact that it’s a known commodity
to consumers. “It is familiar to them and makes it a dependable choice,”
he says.
However, he adds, the company continues to see the rise of other
materials. “Quartz composite sinks continue to grow in popularity. Color
options and durability are leading reasons why customers are going in
this direction, as well as a growing number of workstation options being
available in quartz composite,” he says.
“Durability tied with low maintenance remain key deciding factors,
and this has also led to an increase in fireclay sinks as they are exception-
ally durable,” she adds.

70 Kitchen & Bath Design News • January | February 2024

The Wellfleet-PS3320W is the latest
Fireclay Undermount Kitchen Prep
Station Sink from Nantucket Sinks
USA. Made in Italy, the fine fireclay sink
features an integral ledge to accommo-
date a cutting board. It is designed to be
either undermounted or top mounted
as well as reversible.
nantucketsinksusa.com
The Classic Kitchen Collection from
Franz Viegener features a spout that
is 19" high, with a single-handle deck
mount that delivers a classic twist on
the more contemporary design. The
line is available in 12 different finishes,
including the new Polished Brass (PVD)
and Satin Black (PVD).
franzviegener.com
Gessi’s latest addition to its Art for
Chefs Collection of kitchen faucets is
the industrial-inspired Officine Faucet.
The faucet replicates the look of vintage
pipes with factory-style trimmings, yet
with a high-arched spout. The pull-down
mixer features a two-function sprayer
and full 360-degree spout swivel.
gessi.com
Olympia Faucets/Pioneer Industries
added a low-arc kitchen faucet –
K-5085 – to its i2v collection. Display-
ing a clean modern look with inset
handles and a curved neck, the faucet
features a pull-out spray with two spray
patterns and 360-degree swivel. The
faucet is available in three finishes.
pioneerindcom

Hansgrohe’s Aquno Select kitchen
faucet features three spray modes that
provide optimal multitasking at the
sink, including a base rinse spray, notes
the company. The faucet comes in two
versions – with a round arched spout
or an L-shaped spout. It is available in
three exclusive surface finishes.
hansgrohe-usa.com
Transitional by design, the Edalyn
Kitchen Faucet Collection from Kohler
x Studio McGee is characterized by a
high-profile spout complemented by
stacked detailing. The line includes
pull-down and bridge faucets, pot fillers
and more, with spouts that sport a
range of spray types for diverse needs.
kohler.com
Premier Copper Products offers a vari-
ety of sizes, designs and configurations
for its artisan-crafted copper kitchen
sinks. Shown is KASDB35229, a 35"
Hammered Copper Apron Front Single
Basin Kitchen Sink. Each piece is hand
hammered, making them a one-of-a-
kind sink. Custom orders are available.
premiercopperproducts.com
Franke’s Maris Granite sinks are avail-
able in 161 models in a variety of sizes,
including single bowl, double bowl with
low divide, bar, ADA and utility/laundry
versions. An integrated ledge allows
optional accessories to be used. It is
made from acrylic resin and German
quartz.
franke.com

“One of the major trends with kitchen sinks has been color,” observes
Sally Edenfield, brand strategist for Ruvati USA, based in Round Rock, TX.
“In the past, plain stainless steel was almost always the only option. Now,
with new materials such as granite composite, fireclay and PVD-colored
stainless steel, customers have a lot more options to go with a sink color
that complements the overall style of their kitchen.”
ADVANCES IN DESIGN AND FUNCTION
New technology is constantly emerging, impacting trends through design
possibilities, innovative materials and functional features. One of the top
technological trends for kitchen faucets is the rise of hands-free faucets.
For sinks, a top trend is the manufacturing of new materials that are dura-
ble and easy to maintain.
“Technology has a significant impact on sink and faucet trends, influ-
encing both functionality and design in modern kitchens and bathrooms,”
Webster remarks. ”Advancements in materials technology have led to the
development of surfaces that are easier to clean and maintain. Non-porous
materials and finishes help resist stains and minimize the effort required
for upkeep.”
For faucets, he remarks, technological impacts include integrated
LED lighting and temperature indicators, built-in water filtration systems,
voice-activated controls, and the increasingly popular touchless faucets.
“Hands-free and touch/tap faucets are becoming the new standard,
with homeowners and designers more frequently choosing them for the
kitchen,” reports Storm. “These expertly cater to the hygiene-conscious
homeowner who is looking to reduce germs and contamination.”
“Technology significantly impacts faucet trends by introducing touch-
less operation and water-saving features that cater to modern preferences
for convenience, hygiene and efficiency in kitchen fixtures,” stresses
Tiefenbacher.
Bierman adds, “Technology has driven the expansion of touchless
‘smart faucets’ that utilize phone apps and enable voice commands for
temperature, metered dispensing and an ultra-hygienic user experience.”
PERSONAL HARMONY
The overall style of the kitchen is an important influence in sink and
faucet choices as designers strive to create a cohesive yet personalized look.
Mixed finishes and materials offer a range of options, allowing designers
and consumers to create the unique look they crave.
“We have never had a greater choice of colors, materials, coordinating
design styles and technology options that can all fit together seamlessly
whether the kitchen is modern, transitional or traditional; large or small, a
gathering center or a purely practical space,” stresses Bierman.
“Whether you lean more modern or are looking for a traditional style,

January | February 2024 • KitchenBathDesign.com 71

PRODUCT TREND REPORT

The Ibiza Glass Washing Sink from Ru-
vati is the newest addition to its line of
workstations sinks for the wet bar. The
design includes a built-in glass rinser
with jets that rinse drinkware. Measur-
ing 22" wide and 20" long with a 10"
deep bowl, the Ibiza sink comes with a
wood cutting board and rinse grid.
ruvati.com
Sonoma Forge has expanded its Brut
Collection with a bar/prep faucet, hand
forged to resemble industrial elements.
The new swivel elbow spout design
allows users to direct water flow across
a wider area. The single-hole design
features a side lever that pulls forward
to turn on. It is available in five finishes.
sonomaforge.com
The VAIA faucet design from Dorn-
bracht is now available for the kitchen.
Created by Sieger Design, the collec-
tion includes a single-lever mixer, a
bridge mixer, a bar tap and pot filler.
Eleven different finishes, including the
new Dark Chrome, are offered.
dornbracht.com
The Wave Front Workstation Farm-
house Sinks from Stone Forest are
carved from a single block of Basalt and
feature a honed finish and a wave front
pattern. The sink has been re-engi-
neered as a workstation with a range of
accessory options, including a colander,
cutting board, grid and drying rack.
stoneforest.com

Stripling’s ‘bishop body’ displays a long,
curvilinear silhouette, states New-
port Brass. Available in more than 20
finishes including Matte White, shown,
Stripling includes a swivel spout as-
sembly with side-mounted, ADA-com-
pliant lever handle. A Magnetic docking
system secures the spray to the spout.
newportbrass.com
Flush-mount kitchen sinks from Mila
International include those with rim
widths from ½" to 1" wide and five
distinctive rim profiles, from the 90-de-
gree design of the Atelier and Profile
lines to the ¼" rounded rim of the Arc
and Crescent line. Sink sizes range from
11” to 33” wide.
mila-international.com
The Baveno Hide-Away Kitchen Sink
System from BOCCHI allows users
to change between sink and uninter-
rupted counter space with its design
and telescopic faucets. Sink covers,
multiple faucet options, cutting board,
colanders and roller mats are included
with the fireclay and granite sinks.
bocchiusa.com
Designed to coordinate with most of
the company’s Solid Surface designs,
Wilsonart’s solid surface sinks are
cast-molded 100% acrylic and provide
a continuous, integral fit into solid sur-
face slabs. With no lip or ledge to catch
debris, solid surface sinks are durable
and easy to clean, notes the firm.
wilsonart.com

there is a specific sink that fits your design preference,” reports Edenfield.
“From installation type to material to color, it’s important to take all differ-
ent design influences into consideration. Kitchen designers are also being
very creative, combining elements from different styles to make the per-
fect kitchen that speaks to their customers’ personalities and preferences.”
Borris agrees. “We’re continuing to see consumers participating in
style mixing within their kitchens. Between colors, finishes and textures,
they’re making more intentional inconsistencies between spaces and
becoming more adventurous with design.”
Khoury adds that designers tend to curate a sink that matches the
concept of the kitchen. “We see traditional kitchens still utilizing white
fireclay farmhouse sinks whereas a more transitional kitchen may have a
matte black fireclay sink. Modern kitchens may use a stainless steel apron
front sink,” he explains.
“When choosing a sink for a kitchen, it’s essential to consider the
overall design style, color scheme, and the preferences of the homeown-
er,” emphasizes Webster.
Faucet trends also adapt to the overall kitchen design, Tiefenbacher
reports. “Stylish fixtures serve as focal points and provide functionality,”
he stresses. “Ultimately, choices align with the homeowner’s design
preferences and the desired integration within the kitchen’s overall look
and feel.”
FITTING IN
Size depends on the available space and how the sink will be used. In pri-
mary sinks, larger single bowls that double as prep areas are in demand.
But there’s still a place for the smaller sinks, particularly in islands.
Storm reports that the kitchen island is becoming more of a prep
space, “meaning smaller faucets and sinks are integrated within.”
“For smaller kitchens, people are looking for smarter solutions,”
explains Borris, “perhaps function-based while still elevating style, like a
modular workstation sink.”
Webster reports that the market still prefers the standard 33" top
mount or 32" undermount sink sizes. “That ever-popular double bowl
sink from five to 10 years ago is being taken over by the extra-large single
bowl,” he adds. “Customers love the size of these massive bowls.”
“We see a trend towards larger and larger sinks,” confirms Khoury.
“We are introducing a 47" triple bowl fireclay sink due to demand.”
Bierman agrees that the trend has been toward the large single bowl
that can accommodate a large cookie sheet, soak multiple large pots/pans
and serve as a fully accessorized prep station for cooking enthusiasts.
In faucets, Webster notes, “Most customers prefer a single-hole faucet.
[They are] simpler to install and less cluttered behind the sink than a two-
or three-hole faucet, and having water flow and temperature control done
using a single handle is most efficient and preferred.” ■

72 Kitchen & Bath Design News • January | February 2024

KBIS 2024

Prolific
Products
LAS VEGAS, NV — As the winter’s cold breezes and desolate land-
scape give way to the spring season, new and fresh products and concepts
are coming alive indoors as well at the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show, 1 2
being held February 27-29, 2024 at the Las Vegas Convention Center in
Las Vegas, NV. Part of the 11th Annual Design & Construction Week,
KBIS will again share center stage with the International Builders Show,
sponsored by the National Association of Home Builders.
Celebrating both the 60th anniversary of sponsor the National
Kitchen & Bath Association and KBIS, the latter promises to deliver
several days packed with product innovations, educational initiatives and
lively panel discussions. Over 600 exhibitors covering 450,000 square feet
of space will be at the core of KBIS, with thousands of items on display.
On this and the next seven pages, KBDN highlights some of the
products that will be showcased during the three-day event.
For detailed information and the latest updates about the show,
visit kbis.com. ▪
3 4

1.AIRMADA’s AirJet Shower Drying System uses a series of air-jet nozzles,

set flush to the ceiling or walls, to rid the area of dampness. Available in eight
finishes, the system reduces drying time as well as mold and mildew.
airmadadry.com

2. Lunada Bay Tile is refreshing its Graphite tile line with two new shapes and
three new colors – Klein Blue, Carmine Red and Molten Bronze. The collection
is inspired by pencil drawings as well as raw ingredients.
lunadabaytile.com

3. Standing over 6'x2', SMEG’s new 19.3-cu.-ft. FAB50 refrigerator and freezer
combination features ample internal space. The refrigerator is equipped with
two adjustable shelves and a drawer for fruits and vegetables, along with a 5 6
LifePlus compartment that offers an optimal and sustained temperature.
smeg.com

4. Belwith Keeler is set to reveal 11 items in contemporary finishes, including

the Paramount pull, which measures 33" in overall length and sports polished
end caps. It is offered in Black, Clear and Tortoise acrylic options, paired with
Satin Nickel, Matte Black or Brushed Golden Brass posts and caps.
belwith-keeler.com

5.Atlas Homewares’ Kayden Collection features a straight pull with subtle

detailing. This modernistic collection is available in five standard pull sizes, two
styles of matching knobs (one round knob and one T-knob) and five finishes.
atlashomewares.com
7 8
6. Berenson Hardware is updating its Laura and Dierdra lines. The knob and
pulls of Laura will now be available in matte black and a 12" appliance pull size,
while Dierdra will be offered in matte black, modern brushed gold and toasted
bronze. This collection will also have a 128mm option and a 12" appliance pull.
berensonhardware.com

7.The KM7000 induction cooktops by Miele feature a stainless steel frame

for both style and protection. Product features include auto-off and pan detec-
tion and WiFi connectivity.
mieleusa.com

8.The Verve Trim Kit for Thermostatic Showers from Pfister Faucets offers a
myriad of finish combinations. The back handle controls the volume, while the
front handle sets the temperature.
pfisterfaucets.com 9 10

74 Kitchen & Bath Design News • January | February 2024

 9. Blue waves surge against the white backdrop of Inverness Bristol Bay, with
spires of cobalt against translucent gray colorways. This latest offering from
Cambria is available in high gloss.
cambriausa.com

10.The + Q Premium Natural Quartz in Calacatta Miraggio Cove showcases

a fusion of gold, white and beige veins on a gold Carrara-like backdrop. With
four earth-toned colors, the surfacing is enhanced by an exclusive LumaLuxe
Ultra formulation, which transforms light interaction, notes MSI.
msisurfaces.com

11.TOTO’s NEOREST LS introduces a fully skirted design and metallic trim

11 12 options in silver, nickel or black. Adding to EWATER+ CLEAN TECHNOLOGY
that cleans the bidet wand and bowl, the NEOREST LS utilizes EWATER+ to
clean underneath the toilet seat to prevent the accumulation of waste.
totousa.com

12. Introducing RainBox, RainStick’s circular shower appliance that uses

less than five gallons of water per 10-minute session. RainBox features the
functionality as the RainStick, but the technology is installed behind the wall,
providing more flexibility with the design.
rainstickshower.com

13. Ann Sacks has collaborated with Shea McGee on Canyon Lake by Studio
McGee, which draws inspiration from Old World tile reminiscent of Moroccan
and the Zellige artform. The tiles are comprised of 51 percent recyclable con-
13 14 tent and showcase dry-pressed designs that exhibit an undulating surface.
annsacks.com

14. Designs of Distinction from Brown Wood’s new Designer DripEdge

profile protects garbage can pull-out doors from splatters and messes. The
DripEdge trim comes in four sizes and three finishes, and is designed to fit both
15" and 18" standard and full overlay doors.
brownwoodinc.com

15.The Smart Combination Double Wall Oven from LG Electronics enables

users to cook in a range of styles such as air fry, steam sous vide, true convec-
tion, steam baking and roasting. With an InstaView Window, users can knock
twice on the glass to see inside the closed oven.
lg.com

15 16 16. Armac Martin’s Cocktail collection reimagines sophisticated glassware

silhouettes and details and is inspired by the cocktail district of the brand’s
hometown of Birmingham, England. All of the company’s brass interior pieces
are designed and manufactured in England.
armacmartin.com

17.Introducing two new sizes, 18" and 24", and two alternative heights,
Standard and Tall, Bertazzoni is expanding its suite of dishwashers across its
Professional, Master and Heritage Series. The dishwashers include eight wash
cycles and can load 16 place settings across three racks.
us.bertazzoni.com

18. TERACANTO Porcelain Surface from LX Hausys displays luxurious looks,

organic Earth-based elements and versatile applications, states the company.
TERACANTO colors can be bookmatched to offer even greater visual design
17 18
interest, adds the firm. The line includes Calacatta Gold, Calacatta Extreme
and Statuario Bianco.
lxhausys.com

19.Century Component’s charging station is crafted from solid maple with

dovetailed construction. The drawer features a UL-listed Docking Drawer
Outlet offering AC, USB-A and USB-C connections. It comes complete with a
genuine Italian leather-covered insert and Blum Tandem undermount slides.
centurymade.com

20.The Induction Pro Range offers the precision of induction technology

packaged in a modern design, according to Monogram. The 30" and 36" rang-
es include Precision Temperature Control and a smart pan, allowing users to
decide the degree of the burner.
19 20 monogram.com

January | February 2024 • KitchenBathDesign.com 75

KBIS 2024

21.Tulip Cooking produces modular cooktops, including gas and the first
of its kind induction. The modular units allow for flexible burner placement,
with seamless integration into virtually any countertop. The gas burners offer
optimal flame control and fuel efficiency, notes the firm.
tulipcooking.com

22. The Atlantis Shower System from Pulse Showerspas features an all-brass
body. The three-function shower system includes a 10" rain showerhead, five
body jets with PULSE Power Nozzles and a wand handshower. The system is
surface mounted, pre-plumbed and designed to use two functions at a time.
pulseshowerspas.com

23. Kallista has debuted a new line of handles to complement the ONE 21 22
bathroom collection. Inspired by the clean, curvilinear forms of American Art
Deco, the Armory handle has lines combined with the ONE handle’s polished
aesthetic. Machined at two different angles, the result is a design available in
five finishes and two dual-finish combinations.
kallista.com

24.The KitchenAid 30 Cu. Ft. 48" Built-In Side-by-Side Refrigerator has a

stainless steel PrintShield finish that resists fingerprints, notes the firm. Inside,
the Under-Shelf Prep Zone stores food prep, chills desserts, and more, while
the Wood-Look Pull-Out Tray keeps ingredients organized.
kitchenaid.com

25.The CONERO is Kesseböhmer’s first comprehensive range of fittings for

private closets and dressing rooms. Available in two finishes and a selection 23 24
of components and accessories in variable sizes, CONERO is a customizable
solution for the closet.
kesseboehmer.com

26.The Urban Crush collection from Silestone by Cosentino is inspired by the

textures of industrial and urban style. Materials such as concrete, limestone,
bronze and ash come together to replicate the feeling of a lively cityscape,
notes the firm. The line is manufactured with the brand’s patented HybriQ+
technology, using 99% reused water and 100% renewable energy. Colors
include Lime Delight, Concrete Pulse (shown), Brass Relish and Cinder Craze.
cosentino.com

27.The Amazonite marble design borrows its greenish-blue background col-

or from the mineral Amazonite found in nature. Thin random veins crisscross
25 26
this surface from Daltile, running through crystal clusters. The 136"x79" Super
Jumbo-sized quartz slab is available in both 2 cm and 3 cm thicknesses with a
polished surface.
daltile.com

28.JennAir RISE 48" Dual-Fuel Professional Range with Chrome-Infused

Griddle features precise, dual flames produced by precision-drilled brass
burners. Inside the oven cavity, steady heat weaves around each flat tine with
dual-fan true convection. The cooktop includes a 20,000 BTU Dual-Stacked
PowerBurner. The JennAir Culinary Center, which features color food photog-
raphy, doneness levels, pan types and menu-specific tips, is part of the offering.
jennair.com

29.Lapitec, the silica-free sintered stone used for designing horizontal and
vertical surfaces, presents three new colors of the Musa collection: Bianco 27 28
Alba, Bianco Diana, and Bianco Pandora. Characterized by a wide, passing vein
that runs through the entire thickness of the slab, Musa colors don’t use inks
or petroleum derivatives, according to the company. Their color derives from
the mineral composition of the material, which undergoes a process of vacuum
vibro-compression and sintering.
lapitec.com

30.A cozy peach hue softly nestled between pink and orange, Pantone
13-1023 Peach Fuzz is being showcased on retro-style appliances from Elmira
Stove Works and offered as a custom color selection. The company’s North-
star and Heritage product lines are available in standard colors and over 200
RAL custom options in RAL Colors. Elmira can also color match to virtually any
supplied sample, notes the firm.
elmirastoveworks.com 29 30

76 Kitchen & Bath Design News • January | February 2024

 New for 2024

Urbana

Introducing a sophisticated cabinet door style in an inviting pecan stain,

this design brings elegance to any space. By seamlessly blending modern
aesthetics with timeless appeal, elevating the look of your kitchen or
living area.

Made Possible By Everyone At Kountry Wood

KBIS 2024

31.The Aria Stone Lukas bathtub from Fleurco is available in Matte White
or Matte Black. It features a pre-installed full metal drain body with a color
matching cover and a sleek, modern slotted overflow. Shelf color options are
available in Chrome, Brushed Nickel, Dark Chrome or Brushed Gold.
fleurco.com

32. With the Vauth-Sagel VS Wash laundry system, dirty laundry can be
sorted, stored and transported not only neatly, but also completely out of sight.
The concealed drop can be integrated into any utility area. The new laundry
hampers are perforated to ensure optimal air circulation.
vauth-sagel.com

33. Empava’s Whirlpool Hydromassage Bathtub with glass panel is offered

in a number of colors, including black, gray and white, along with customizable
hardware finishes such as gold, black or stainless steel. The 11 water jets are 31 32
strategically placed to soothe key muscles and reduce body tension through a
full body, deep tissue massage. The bathtub features a contemporary acrylic
and fiberglass design, complemented by a tempered glass panel strategically
positioned on the front. LED lighting, waterfall spout and body contouring
seats are also included.
empava.com

34. Emtek’s new SELECT Finger Pulls and T-Knobs can be paired with coordi-
nated SELECT Cabinet Pulls or serve as stand-alone focal points. Choose from
two sizes, catering to both kitchen and wardrobe applications.
emtek.com
33 34
35.Surfalite is an engineered stone surface from Santamargherita that is
produced to be only 7mm thick, made from a mixture of premium minerals,
quartz and recycled materials. Its thinness and subsequent lightness allow it to
be used for a multitude of applications, including backsplashes, cabinet door
cladding, wet wall applications and covering existing countertops. Surfalite
slabs are suitable for both residential and commercial uses, and available in
colors such as Aurum Strand, White Feather, Black Nimbus and Sand Dunes.
santamargherita.com

36.Franz Viegener’s Techno Chic collection features an eclectic, futuristic

design with modern accents. Techno Chic is constructed to facilitate a natural
grip – effectively preserving and concentrating force of the handle pivot, states
the firm. The full Techno Chic collection includes faucets and tub fillers with
widespread, wall-mount, deck-mount and freestanding floor-mounted options. 35 36
franzviegener.com

37.American Olean’s Foyer showcases bold veining in three different marble

designs, each with its own unique character and color palette. Foyer combines
the beauty of marble visuals with the durability of ColorBody porcelain.
americanolean.com

38.Viking Range introduces its new Convection DrawerMicro, an all-in-one

oven that seamlessly fits into any undercounter space, notes the company.
Features include Air Fry, Toast and Warm cooking modes, and an AutoStart
feature that initiates cooking at preset times. The Convection DrawerMicro’s
1.4-cu.-ft. oven capacity is designed to accommodate two 9"x13" or 3 qt. dish-
es. The Speed Cook modes pair convection and microwave heating.
vikingrange.com
37 38
39. The ZLINE 60" Autograph Edition Built-in Refrigerator with Polished
Gold Accents (RBIVZ-304-60-G) pairs freshness with a bold, panel-ready
style, notes the firm. The Energy Star-rated unit features 32.3 cubic feet of
combined storage space and an easy-to-use digital interface that offers quick
adjustments to refrigerator and freezer temperatures, including EcoMode and
RapidChill modes.
zlinekitchen.com

40.The Manior Collection from JVJ Hardware is a French cottage-inspired

cabinet hardware line fashioned from solid brass. The pulls range from 96mm
to 320mm and are accompanied by three knobs – a 36mm, a 45mm and a
77mm T-knob. All are offered in Satin Brass, Matte Black, Satin Nickel and
Polished Nickel.
jvjhardware.com 39 40

78 Kitchen & Bath Design News • January | February 2024

 HAT'S PO
EW SS
N

GI

IB
I MA

LE
™
IT

S
W

N
H IG
DA
LTILE DES

TILE THAT MAKES

A STATEMENT.
As the world-class leader in
Tile, Natural Stone & Countertops,
Daltile offers the largest assortment of
high-style solutions to elevate
any space or design.

VISIT US AT BOOTH #N223

Photo features Marble Attache™ Golden Reverie on the floor and

Remedy™ Elixer on the backsplash with ONE Quartz Surfaces®
Broadway Black on the countertops. FREE DESIGN SERVICES AVAILABLE!
©2024 Daltile
KBIS 2024

41.The AGA Elise can now be further customized with Antique Brass Handle
Stanchions and Antique Brass Knobs. The ceramic glass surface cooktop has
five induction burners with integrated capacitive touch controls. The AGA Elise
48" Induction Range features three separate ovens: an electric multifunction
oven with seven settings, a second European convection oven offering the
ability to cook multiple large dishes at once, and a third broil oven for dedicated
top-heat broiling.
agarangeusa.com

42.Duo by Alison Rose for Artistic Tile presents myriad possibilities through
the arrangement of its two units, Duo Dimensional and Duo Texture. Duo
Dimensional includes three colorways – Matcha Verde, Lilac and Vanilla Onyx 41 42
– each adorned with nautical-inspired ripples that enhance the beauty of the
stone, notes the firm. For Duo Texture, two colorways – Nero and Calacatta
Gold – are enhanced by etched texture.
artistictile.com

43.The expansion of the Murano Collection from Native Trails includes

Roma, a glass vessel sink that joins the existing five shapes — Amalfi, Lido, Po-
sitano, Sorrento and Verona. Roma, as well as Lido and Sorrento, are available
in two new design series: Marina, where ribbons of blue and white hug each
curve, and Seaspray, with translucent white swirls on a clear basin.
nativetrailshome.com

44.Crystal clear accents pair with metallic finishes in the Glacio collection
from Amerock, which is available in six finishes: Chrome, Brushed Nickel, Golden
Champagne, Champagne Bronze, Oil-Rubbed Bronze and Matte Black. Acces- 43 44
sories include a robe hook, towel ring, tissue roll holder, and 9", 18" and 24" towel
bars. Glacio accessories, which coordinate with the cabinet hardware collection
of the same name, is one of 12 new bath accessory collections from Amerock.
amerock.com

45.Falmec’s Alba highlights contemporary European design and filtration

technology in the form of a geometrical concealed ceiling-mounted range hood
backlit with LED lighting. Alba features a recirculating system using Falmec’s
Carbon.Zeo ceiling filtering kit.
falmec.com

46.BlueStar’s first line of Dual Fuel Ranges includes the 48" X8, the totally
reimagined sealed 8-point star-shaped burner that offers from 500 BTUs to
25,000 BTUs on each burner. The 20" circumference provides even heat with 45 46
152 precision-controlled heat ports. The oversized true convection ovens fit
commercial-size baking sheets and offer eight cook modes.
bluestarcooking.com

47.New matte black grab bars from Stone Harbor Hardware are designed to
coordinate with popular matte black bath, cabinet and door hardware, with a
look that is more stylish than institutional, states the company. Available with
both smooth and knurled textures, the matte black grab bars come in 12", 18",
24", 36" and 42" lengths.
stoneharborhardware.com

48.James Martin Furniture’s sculptural Emmeline collection is a marriage

of form and function. Available in two sizes, it features faceted panel drawers
that house ample storage with a removable organizer. The Pebble Oak finish
47 48
highlights the geometric pattern of the wire brushed grain, while the complex
shapes add both visual and tactile depth.
jamesmartinfurniture.com

49. THOR Kitchen’s 24" Single Zone Wine Cooler offers a wide range of
models with details to accommodate wine preservation requirements. The
wine cooler unit has a 45-wine bottle capacity.
thorkitchen.com

50.With a compact and narrow design, AVENTOS HKi from Blum can be
fully integrated into the cabinet side. The lift technology allows users full,
unobstructed access to wall cabinets. When combined with a glass front,
AVENTOS HKi is invisible with the door closed, giving the cabinet an aesthetic
appeal. When open, the lever arms emerge in onyx black.
blum.com 49 50

80 Kitchen & Bath Design News • January | February 2024

 Always Innovating!
N E V E R I M I T A T I N G

From left to right: 4ADI Adjustable Deep Drawer Insert, 5WU Upright Wall Pullout and 444 Series Modular Base Cabinet Pullout

We’re at
it again
again!
For over four decades, our commitment to delivering original products, meticulously designed
and crafted at our facility in Louisville, Kentucky, has been unwavering. Our tradition of innovation
continues as we once again introduce a new range of solutions designed to enhance storage and
organization in various spaces, from kitchens, bathrooms, closets, pantries, and beyond.

Above 4WLS87 Series Girasolo Blind Corner Optimizer

S e e u s a t K B I S 2 0 24 | B o o t h # N 6 3 9 r e v - a - s h e l f.c o m | 8 0 0 - 6 2 6 -112 6 | i n f o @ r e v - a - s h e l f.c o m

KBIS 2024

51.Clearing smoke, odors and chemicals from the air, the Broan Elite custom
range hood operates automatically via SmartSense, which uses infrared sens-
ing to turn on and off or adjust the speed based on the heat of the range. The
WiFi-connected hood can also be controlled via voice commands and features
a 650 Max Blower CFM.
broan-nutone.com

52.The QM160WH solid surface vanity sink from Karran is finished in matte
white and resistant to stains and scratches, notes the company. The sink is
paired here with the KBF462SS single-hole bath faucet and matching pop-up
drain. Together the pair presents a sleek design and contemporary aesthetic,
the firm adds. 51 52
karran.com

53.Sailing is Fantini’s first collaboration with a North American design team

and is being presented as the studio’s inaugural collection for the brand. The
inspiration for the collection came from Fantini’s home on Lake Orta in North-
ern Italy. The New York- and Toronto-based design firm wanted to capture the
essence of the lake’s tranquility in the designs.
fantini.it

54.Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens has launched its new finish, Sapphire
Blue, which aligns with emerging trends in outdoor design that allow for fun
and different color selections, according to the firm. Embodying this trend,
Sapphire Blue offers a fresh option for those seeking to infuse their outdoor
spaces with a splash of vibrant brilliance, the company adds
brownjordanoutdoorkitchens.com 53 54

55.Fisher & Paykel’s Series 9 74" Integrated Triple Zone Refrigerator intro-
duces three independent storage zones – Chill, Fridge and Pantry – that can
store items at the precise temperature and humidity. At 74" high, the refriger-
ator with ActiveSmart technology fits into small spaces and features cantile-
vered, glass bottom shelves that fully extend.
fisherpaykel.com

56.The GE CAFÉ CustomFit Stainless Steel Interior Smart Dishwasher

incorporates Ultra Wash & Dual Convection Ultra Dry that allows users to
customize their clean with a CustomFit Top Rack with Sliding and Removable
Caddy, CustomFit Wash Basket and CustomFit Wash Basket Lid Caddy. With a
39 dBA, the dishwashers provide a quiet clean. The smart dishwasher includes
built-in WiFi and can be controlled via the SmartHQ app. 55 56
cafeappliances.com

57.Library ladders aren’t just for the study; these work well in kitchens, clos-
ets and anywhere else where high storage is needed. Häfele’s library ladders
are available in an array of styles and finishes to improve space usability and
deliver access to out-of-reach storage.
hafele.com

58.Synchronized, soft-close and full extension, Dynapro 2D slides from

Grass move with a slight pull and gentle push. Dynapro 2D, designed and
assembled in Austria, is known for its smooth running performance and quiet
kinematics, according to the company. An integrated rack-and-pinion system
allows the slides to move in unison, improving glide, reducing noise and pre-
venting the drawer from binding when closing for drawers up to 48" wide, the
57 58
firm adds.
grassusa.com

59. Part of Antolini’s Exclusive Collection, Cristallo Vitrum conveys the image
of a sheet of glacial ice, states the firm. A member of the Natural Quartz family,
the surface features dark amber veins with continuing movement. It can be
backlit for added drama.
antolini.com

60.Arizona Tile’s Riggiole is an Italian-made, rectified color body porcelain

that features a contrasting black and white pattern. It has a slightly worn effect
that highlights the aged look, while the black and white geometric patterns
evoke the passage of time. The tiles are available in 12"x12" and 36"x36" sizes
and 17 different patterns.
arizonatile.com 59 60

82 Kitchen & Bath Design News • January | February 2024

 61.The Lucianna range hood by La Bastille features a classic shape, six dis-
tinctive apron pattern selections, and three metal options of Cast Zinc, Copper
and Brass. The hood comes in standard width and heights but can be tailored to
fit any space. It is equipped with Vent-a-Hood’s Premier Magic Lung blower.
labastille.com

62.The new Caesarstone Mineral portfolio is Caesarstone’s latest premium

low-silica sustainable surfaces made with the company’s blend of natural
minerals and recycled materials. The new Time Collection, part of the Mineral
portfolio, includes three new contemporary designs: Dreamy Carrera, Brillian-
za Solenna and Dreamy Carrera, shown, which displays a silky white ground
61 62 with veins of earthy gray and bluish undertones with darker streaks.
caesarstoneus.com

63.Marazzi’s new Rice collection of glazed porcelain wall tile evokes the es-
sence of handmade tile with its purposefully uneven surfaces and glossy finish.
A neutral palette of Bianco, Natural and Grigio, complemented by the inclusion
of a Mediterranean ‘Blu’ comes in modular 6"x6", 3"x8" and 2"x6" sizes and
features straight edges. The integration of nature-inspired decos with four sol-
id colors allows for customized installation patterns with distinct personalities.
marazziusa.com

64.The TL75 table leg from Doug Mockett & Co. boasts two steel columns
that intersect at the center and create a sleek X-shape. With a weight capacity
of 375 pounds per leg, these legs provide significant tabletop support. Square
pads sit beneath each leg to protect floors.
63 64 mockett.com

65. Summit Appliance’s single-drawer lineup brings compressor-powered

refrigeration to virtually any space. Sized just under 18" high and available in a
21", 24" or 30" width, these refrigerators can be built-in under counters or into
cabinetry. All feature a fully finished stainless steel drawer front that can also
accept overlay panels for a custom look. Additional features include LED light-
ing, intuitive digital controls, removable dividers and shelves, sabbath mode
and an open drawer alarm.
summitappliance.com

66.The Outdoor Color Collection from Lynx Grills is available in a palette of

eight vibrant shades carefully crafted in partnership with Sherwin Williams.
The shades capture the essence of California’s natural beauty – from golden
sands to soaring peaks to legendary waters, states the firm.
lynxgrills.com
65 66
67.Danver’s new Cosmopolitan Kitchen introduces the opportunity to
integrate drop-in appliances like electric cookers and grills within the Cos-
mopolitan line. Providing an all-in-one solution that can be used for cooking,
entertaining and storage, the Kitchen further expands the versatility of the
Cosmopolitan portfolio of tables and buffets. The Cosmopolitan Kitchen is
made to order and available in a wide range of configurations and colors.
danver.com

68.The Classic Retro line from Unique Appliances delivers 1950’s style in
Summer Mint Green, Ocean Mist Turquoise, Marshmallow White and Mid-
67 68 night Black, with chrome trims and accents. The Electric Wine Cooler features
LED lighting that softly illuminates the interior, which holds up to 28 bottles.
uniqueappliances.com

69. F70, the heavy-duty, concealed, undermount drawer slide from Salice,
comes with a 154-lb. Dynamic Load Rating and a 170-lb. Static Load Rating.
The slide boasts a full-extension, synchronized movement, a fluid dampening
device and an integrated handle-less opening mechanism in the Push version.
It is available in the full range of lengths from 15" to 30".
salice.com

70.The 4WDR drying rack with Blum soft-close from Rev-A-Shelf is a

complete drawer system that installs into an existing 24" base cabinet; only the
drawer front needs to be attached. Open the drawer and unfold the arms for
up to 18 linear feet of drying space. With two positions of placement, items can
dry flat or be hung to dry on the rust-resistant stainless-steel rods.
69 70 rev-a-shelf.com

January | February 2024 • KitchenBathDesign.com 83

KBIS 2024

71.Dometic’s E-Series and D-Series of outdoor refrigerators offer freestand-

ing and built-in drawer configurations. Both series feature precise temperature
control, consistent airflow, a zero-clearance hinge that allows for seamless in-
tegration with cabinetry, and reversible door openings, as well as an ergonomic
horizontal handle for improved accessibility and interior LED lighting.
dometic.com

72. Samsung is introducing its first laundry pair with Pet Care features. The
Smart Top Load Washer with Pet Care Solution and the Smart Dryer with Pet
Care Dry work together to remove six times the pet hair and reduce pet odors,
states the firm. The wash cycle creates water currents to loosen dirt and rinse
hair through specially design dual pet hair filters. The 5.4-cu.-ft. washer also 71 72
features the built-in Active WaterJet faucet. The dryer uses a tumbling algo-
rithm specifically engineered to help eliminate unpleasant odors.
samsung.com

73. Calacatta Black from Laminam emulates black marble with subtle hints
of beige. It’s available in various formats and thicknesses suitable for an array
of applications, including countertops, flooring, wall cladding, furniture, wet ar-
eas, fireplace cladding and more. Calcutta Black is available in the new Polished
Starlit finish and the Bocciardato finish.
laminam.com

74.U-Line’s 5 Class Collection of undercounter refrigeration offers a choice

of solid door panel models or glass door models ready to accept custom frame
panel. Concealed articulating hinges eliminate door clearance gaps, while
being hidden behind the door. The adjustable grille accessory adapts to the 73 74
cabinetry’s toe kick allowing space for ventilation.
u-line.com

75.Available in door hardware and several cabinet knobs and pulls, Ashley
Norton’s Knurled texture offers a slight industrial vibe. The new Natural Bronze
finish offers a distressed look that works for those seeking an antiqued alterna-
tive to satin brass. White Medium, another new option, has a pewter look.
ashleynorton.com

76.Marvel’s undercounter refrigerators feature BrightShield, antimicrobial

lighting that keeps food and other contents safer and healthier, notes the firm.
It delivers continuous sanitizing action by casting a soft violet glow around the
clock that destroys microbial cells found in viruses, bacteria, fungi, yeast, mold
and mildew, keeping the surfaces it touches free from contamination. 75 76
marvel.com

77.Palma Cement Breeze Blocks, Tesselle’s newest breeze block collection,

are available in grey and white, and provide sun protection and openness,
ventilation and airflow. The block can be used outdoors or indoors, with each
measuring 11.4"x11.4"x3.5".
tesselle.com

78.BlueRun from Florida Tile is offered in rectified porcelain formats includ-

ing 12"x24" and 24"x24" in Antique White, Historic Greige, Atlas Gray and
Fossil Black. Decorative tiles in each colorway showcase eight fun geometric
patterns in a 24"x24" format. A 12"x12" mix mosaic featuring a geometric pair-
ing of contrasting colors, an offset basketweave mosaic, and 3"x24" bullnose,
complete the indoor tile options.
77 78
floridatile.com

79. ROBAM introduces its 30" Dual Fuel Range, which features five gas burn-
ers with multiple levels ranging from 5,000 to 18,000 BTU. The large capacity,
5.0-cu.-ft. European-style convection oven delivers evenly distributed heat and
a wide range of temperature controls, from 80 to 550 degrees Fahrenheit.
robamliving.com

80.nobilia has expanded its sliding door system to include three colors with
anti-fingerprint properties to offer more options for a more customized design,
notes the firm. Making efficient use of available space, sliding doors allow for
division of areas and hide functional settings such as shelf units or workspaces,
the company adds. The three new colors include: Lacquer, premium honed
white; Lacquer, premium honed slate gray, and taupe gray ultra matte.
nobiliakitchenfurniture.com 79 80

84 Kitchen & Bath Design News • January | February 2024

MAKE 2024 YOUR YEAR!
ENTER THE CHRYSALIS AWARDS
The 2024 Chrysalis Awards for
Remodeling Excellence is now
open to receive entries.

Make this the year that you are recognized for your great
remodeling and design projects. Entering the Chrysalis Awards
for Remodeling Excellence is a great way to do that.
You’ll find details on the 2024 program and the entry process
on our website at www.chrysalisawards.com.

PROJECT ELIGIBILITY www.chrysalisawards.com and click on the “Enter the

Any project completed after January 1, 2021 is eligible.
This includes previous Chrysalis entries that did not
win a Chrysalis Award, as well as entries from other
competitions. Any contractor, architect or design
professional in the United States may enter.
CATEGORIES
General categories include: Kitchen, Bath, Addition,
Residential Interior, Whole House, Basement,
Outdoor Living and others. You can find a complete
list and description of the categories at
www.chrysalisawards.com.
FORMAT
Entries must be in digital format. Your entry can be
created on the Chrysalis Awards website or you can
import a file of an entry you create, or an entry you
submitted in any previous remodeling competition.
REGISTRATION
The first step is to register your company on the
Chrysalis website. To register, go to the website at
Chrysalis Awards” button and it will take you directly to
the registration page. Once you register, you can create,
import, or edit your entries, and you will receive ongoing
updates and information on the Chrysalis Awards.
Registration does not require a fee. The entry fee of
$190 per entry is paid only when the entry is completed
and submitted at any time prior to the deadline. If you
don’t wish to register now, email us and we’ll keep you
up to date on the 2024 program.
DEADLINE
April 15, 2024. Entrants will be notified of the results
in June.
You can see snapshots of the 2023 winning entries
displayed on www.chrysalisawards.com as well as all
winning projects since 2000.
You can also see the 2023 winners featured on the
Qualified Remodeler website at qualifiedremodeler.com/
category/chrysalis-awards/.

If you have questions, contact Ken Kanline at ken@buildingsongs.com or call us at 850-544-3773

Winners will be featured in our publishing sponsors’ magazines:

NEW PRODUCTS

UPDATED KITCHEN ORGANIC MATTE

ELEMENTS CABINET FINISHES
Musa, the new Scavolini kitchen by Vuesse A new palette of matte
Design, showcases distinctive proportions finishes from Wood-Mode,
and finishes for room customization. LLC explores the look of
Finishes include three pearl-effect colors wood as if it was shaped,
– Cuvee, Pas Dose and Perlage – that transformed and influenced
have been added to the glossy and matte by natural surroundings
lacquered range and are also offered in a or elements but then
distinctive vertical slat version. The framed amplified in a way that cannot normally be achieved organically, notes
glass door, which is part of the collection, is the firm. The new wood finishes include: Matte Fossil Wood, which
available in smooth or vertical and horizon- shows cherry or maple with a subtle brown finish that yields to lightly
tal slat version in plain color or the three patterned grays; Matte Boardwalk, which depicts the aged look of
pearl-effect hues. boardwalk wood; Matte Oxide, with the look of darkened, oxidized
scavolini.com wood; Mojave Sand, light graining that reflects the look of excessive
sun, wind and sand erosion, and Spring Wheat, which depicts the
variance of color and texture in agricultural grain.
wood-mode.com
DESIGNER VANITIES
Strasser is launching The Christopher
Grubb Collection, its first designer
collaboration that will include two UPDATED SHAKER STYLE
new designs. The new vanities – The Nexus Doors and Drawer Fronts from WalzCraft deliver a fresh
Aldaire and Colville – will feature the take on the classic shaker style, featuring solid wood narrower stiles and
designer’s signature clean-lined con- rails and outside edge molding with mitered corners. Options include
temporary look. Aldaire, distinguished an assortment of square,
by its bold, modern look with metal beaded and beveled profiles
accent reveals and legs, is available in that range from ¼" to 7⁄8"
wall-mount and furniture versions in wide paired with a flat panel
two sizes. The Colville is a clean-lined, or Continuous Bead (Reed-
wall-mount style that’s available in ed) Panel. The pieces are
four sizes and features either a single or dual finish highlighting Strasser’s solid wood man- available in a variety of wood
ufacturing and finishing process. The collection also includes customizable options such as species and grades, as well as
mirrors, built-in outlets and a selection of countertops, hardware and sinks. finishing options.
strasserwood.com walzcraft.com

MACHINE-LOOK BATH FAUCETS

The design of Techno Chic, the latest bath
faucets from Franz Viegener, is inspired by
the evolution of machines and features an
eclectic, futuristic design with modern accents.
Textured detailing on the spout – available in
either linear or knurling – is a subtle nod to the
gears and machinery that inspire the collection.
Constructed to facilitate a natural grip, round or
lever handles feature matching etched details.
The collection includes faucets and tub fillers in
12 finishes, including nine PVD options ranging
from Polished Nickel to Satin Black.
franzviegener.com

QUARTZ SURFACING ADDITIONS

FRAMELESS SQUARE
SHOWER ENCLOSURE
The Claridge XL Frameless Square Shower Enclosure from
Aston maximizes the bath’s corner alcove space with its
80" height and a variety of sizes. The enclosure features
3⁄8" (10mm) StarCast by Enduroshield protected clear or
Ultra-Bright frosted tempered glass and six steel hardware
options. Ready to install, the Claridge XL Collection pro-
vides a reversible hinge door and up to 1" of adjustability.
astonbath.com
Wilsonart has introduced six new designs
within its Grand Summit Wilsonart Quartz
Collection. Featuring new, widely coordinat-
ing color schemes, distinctive movement and
depth that conveys the look of natural stone,
according to the company, the surfacing
encompasses styles from white neutrals to
soft greys. The new shades include Altamonte,
Nevis Ridge, Verde Peak (shown), Glencoe,
Marathi Marble and Ostler Peak.
wilsonart.com

86 Kitchen & Bath Design News • January | February 2024

 NEW PRODUCTS

BRONZE HARDWARE & ACCESSORIES

Rocky Mountain Hardware is collaborating with
Suede Studio, formerly known as Jennifer Hoey
Interior Design, to offer Phases, a kitchen and bath ac-
cessories line designed with curves and contemporary
angles paired with the natural texture of cast bronze.
The scale and lines of each piece relate to each other,
which enables mixing and matching of knobs, pulls
and grips, notes the firm. Company artisans can cus-
tomize each piece, making adjustments to the base
design, size variations, finish options and more. The
Phases collection is comprised of five different pieces,
including cabinet pulls and knobs, door pulls and grips,
towel bars, hooks, and toilet paper holder with shelf.
rockymountainhardware.com

MINI LED PENDANT LIGHTING

Amari, a new, clean and sculptural LED mini pendant from
Modern Forms, showcases two interlocking panels and subtle
ambient illumination. The LED driver is concealed within the slide-on
square canopy with minimal hardware. Thin powered aircraft cables
provide an ultra-clean look for adjustable suspension height ranging
from 35" to 155". The mini pendant is available in aged brass or black
finish; a larger pendant and wall sconces are also offered.
modernforms.com

CUSTOM FAUCET HANDLES

Dornbracht has teamed up with Nature Squared, a sustain-
able design and manufacturing company, for fo MEM
UPDATED KITCHEN CABINETRY SYSTEM exc
x Nature Squared. Dornbracht is adding exclusive,
SieMatic has added new features to its Signature Handle-Free S2 Kitchen, including secret
ass
custom versions of MEM handles to the assortment,
compartments, mitered corners, super-slim 1 cm countertops, new finishes and more.
with a proportion of the handles consisting of nat--
Secret Service is a 3.5 cm slim drawer that is hidden within S2’s sculpted recessed channel,
h dl is
ural products from Nature Squared. Every handle
suitable for storing knifes, cheese slicers and even smart phones and tablets, while Secret
one-of-a-kind, with possible combinations of seven
Space is available for base and tall corner units that is a closed cabinet on one side but can
materials and five finishes for more than 30
be rotated 180-degrees to reveal shelves that can be hidden or displayed. Practical Corner
options for the washstation, shower or bath.
is a corner storage cabinet that makes use of dead space in L-shaped kitchens. Sahara
dornbracht.com
Beige and Smoked Oak are the added finishes, and recess channels are now available in
gold bronze anodized.
siematic.com

GEOMETRIC VANITY CONSOLE

LARGE-FORMAT PORCELAIN
XLIGHT by Porcelanosa is the company’s large-format porcelain that recreates the look
of cement, marble, stone, wood and metal, notes the firm. Available in extra-slim sizes,
the wide range of large-format tiles is offered in four finishes – polished, silk, textured
and natural. Tile sizes include 24"x47", 47"x47" or 47"x106", with two thicknesses –
6mm or 9mm. The large-format porcelain can be used indoors or out and is waterproof
and stain resistant. Shown is Emerald.
porcelanosa.com
Duravit USA has collaborated with Studio F. A. Porsche to design
Qatego, a complete bath collection that includes ceramic fixtures
and furniture. Inspired by stones gently polished by water, the series
features minimalist designs with distinctive details that exude a sense
of naturalness, notes the company. Underlining the collection’s bio-
philic design influence, the vanity console unit combines the ceramic
above-counter basins with natural stone panels made from Carrara
Marble, Lavica Stone and Travertine. The console supports, made
from anthracite-colored metal, simultaneously act as towel holders.
duravit.us

January | February 2024 • KitchenBathDesign.com 87

PRODUCT INDEX

COMPANIES PAGE NO. COMPANIES PAGE NO. COMPANIES PAGE NO. COMPANIES PAGE NO.
AGA 80 Daltile 76 Keeler Brass Company 65 PULSE ShowerSpas 76
Airmada 74 Danver 83 Kesseböhmer 76 RainStick 75
ALFI Trade 62 Dometic 84 KitchenAid 76 Rev-A-Shelf 83
Amba Products 64 Dornbracht 72, 87 Kohler 71 ROBAM 84
American Olean 78 Doug Mockett & Co. 83 KOVA 70 Robern 65
Amerock 80 Duravit 87 Kraus 69 Rocky Mountain Hardware 87
Ann Sacks 75 Effe Perfect Wellness 63 La Bastille 83 Ruvati 72
Antolini 82 Elkay 69 Lacava 64 Salice 83
Arizona Tile 82 Elmira Stove Works 76 Laminam 84 Samsung 84
Armac Martin 75 Empava 78 Lapitec 76 Santamargherita 78
Artistic Tile 80 Emtek 78 LG Electronics 75 Scavolini 86
Ashley Norton 84 Falmec 80 Lunada Bay Tile 74 SieMatic 87
Aston 86 Fantini 82 Lynx Grills 83 SMEG 74
Atlas Homewares 74 Fisher & Paykel 82 LX Hausys 75 Sonoma Forge 72
Baldwin Hardware 65 Fleurco 78 Madeli 64 Speakman 70
Barclay Products 69 Florida Tile 84 Marazzi 83 Stone Forest 72
Belwith-Keeler 74 Franke 71 Marvel 84 Stone Harbor Hardware 80
Berenson Hardware 74 63, 71, Miele 74 Strasser 86
Franz Viegener
Bertazzoni 75 78, 86 Mila Internationsl 72 Summit Appliance 83
Blanco 68 GE Café 82 Modern Forms 87 Tenzo Fine Plomberie 63
BlueStar 80 Gessi 63, 71 Moen 70 Tesselle 84
Blum 80 Graff 69 Monogram 75 The Galley 70
BOCCHI 72 Grass 82 Mountain Plumbing Products 62 Thompson 70
Brizo 63, 70 Häfele 82 MrSteam 65 THOR Kitchen 80
Broan NuTone 82 Hansgrohe 71 MSI 75 TOTO 75
Brown Jordan Hardware Resources 69 Nantucket Sinks 71 Tulip Cooking 76
82 Hastings Tile & Bath 64
Outdoor Kitchens Native Trails 69, 80 U-Line 84
Brown Wood 75 House of Rohl 69 Newport Brass 72 Unique Appliances 83
Caesarstone 83 Hydro Systems 62 nobilia 84 Vauth-Sagel 78
CAFÉ 82 Isenberg 68 Olympia Faucets/ Viking Range 78
James Martin Furniture 80 71
California Faucets 62, 68 Pioneer Industries WalzCraft 86
Cambria 75 JennAir 76 Peerless 68 Watermark Designs 70
Century Components 75 JVJ Hardware 78 Pfister Faucets 69, 74 Wilsonart 72, 86
Cosentino 76 Kallista 76 Porcelanosa 87 Wood-Mode, LLC 86
Croft Architectural Hardware 65 Karran 70, 82 Premier Copper Products 71 ZLINE 78
 PRODUCT & SERVICES SHOWCASE

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Components
to Complete
Cabinetry
Ÿ CABINET DOORS &
DRAWER FRONTS
Ÿ WOOD, THERMOFOIL &
LAMINATE
Ÿ DRAWER BOXES,
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Ÿ CUSTOM CABINET BOXES
Ÿ SUPERIOR FINISHING
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ADVERTISER INDEX

ADVERTISERS PAGE NO. ADVERTISERS PAGE NO.

3A Composites 11 Kitchen & Bath Design Awards 66

Bath & Kitchen Buying Kountry Wood Products, LLC 77
21
Group (BKBG)
Marsh Furniture 33
Blum Inc. 43
MSI 61
Brizo 8
Newport Brass 19
Chief Architect 2-3
NKBA-National
Chrysalis Awards 85 91
Kitchen&Bath Assoc.
Dal-Tile Corporation 79 Peerless Faucet 17
Decorative Plumbing & PerfectSix 24
23
Hardware Association (DPHA)
ProCraft Cabinetry Phoenix 4-5
Designs of Distinction
47
by Brown Wood, Inc. REHAU Industries LLC 53
EGGER 6 Rev-A-Shelf 81
Elias Woodwork & Ruvati USA, Inc 15
89
Manufacturing Ltd.
Salone del Mobile 73 www.wood-hood.com
Elmira Stove Works 29
sales@wood-hood.com
SEN Design Group 88
Fabuwood Cabinetry Corp. 41 Phone: 248-572-6880
Showplace Cabinetry 27
Fittings Metal Collection 89 Wood Range Hoods
Signature Kitchen Suite 92
Hardware Resources 25
Stanisci Design 89
Hettich America, L.P. 13
Vauth-Sagel 89
Imperial Cal. Products, Inc. 20 CLASSIFIEDS
WalzCraft Industries 89
J Aaron Wood Countertops 22
Wellborn Cabinet, Inc. 48-49
Karran USA 37

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January | February 2024 • KitchenBathDesign.com 89

TRANSFORMATIONS

Townhome Kitchen Bounces Back in Blue

BEFORE

After Photos: French Blue Photography – Tanya Sloan

Juliana Ewer, owner and lead
designer of J Squared Home
Designs by Juliana Ewer,
was called upon to give
this Houston, TX kitchen a
much-needed update as part
of a full first-floor remodel.
Located in a three-story
townhome, the kitchen was
constrained to the tight 700
square feet of the first floor
and desperately needed more
functional storage, as well as
places to display beloved art
pieces. The kitchen suffered
from poor flow, and the client
also disliked the two small high
windows that seemed to make
little sense in the space.

AFTER
Due to the size and layout of the townhome, expansion was not an option for the kitchen.
No walls could be moved, so Ewer worked to create a plan that would fit the existing foot-
print. The new design offers improved flow throughout the open-concept living, dining and
kitchen area, as well as upgraded storage space, in part by pushing the island back slightly
into the living area. A third row of cabinetry was added, allowing for storage on both sides of
the new island, as well as a built-in bar in the dining room.
Although the client tended toward scope creep, Ewer endeavored to stay within the
project budget and parameters by sanding and refinishing the existing wood floors instead
of installing new flooring, as well as adding floating glass cabinets in front of the unwanted-
but-unremovable windows.
To create the desired eclectic look in the new kitchen, the designer selected sapphire-
colored raised backsplash tiles and dramatic Silestone Eternal Noir and Lusso countertops,
as well as Arteriors pendant lights and striking Worlds Away hardware.. View more after
photos at KitchenBathDesign.com

90 Kitchen & Bath Design News • January | February 2024

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Kaitlin Guerin, owner of Lagniappe Baking, New Orleans, LA

A work of art deserves

a proper pedestal.
Presenting the 48-inch French Door Refrigerator
by Signature Kitchen Suite

Pastry is a delicate dance of butter, flour, and technique where bakers can create
edible works of art. We kept this in mind with our new 48-inch Built-in French
Door Refrigerator. From dual compressors that keep temperatures within 1°F, to
a 5-mode Convertible Drawer for special ingredients to all the capacity you need,
it ensures the last step to the plate is as cared for as the first.

See how we respect food at every level at SignatureKitchenSuite.com.

True to food
TM

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