Hardware Retailing The Industry's Source for Insights and Information
At the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS), international manufacturers showcased products featuring the latest technology and trends in the industry.
As North America’s largest trade show dedicated to all aspects of kitchen and bath design, KBIS enables lesser-known manufacturers of high-end appliances, fixtures, cabinetry and accessories to exhibit alongside major manufacturers like GE, LG, Moen and Kohler.
At the event, held Jan. 21-23, architects, builders, designers and retail buyers previewed the latest gadgets and spoke directly with manufacturers to learn more about their products.
Hardware Retailing was on the showfloor, speaking with manufacturers and learning about the latest trends in kitchen and bath design. Find some of our top takeaways below as you consider your kitchen and bath inventory in the months ahead.
At the Forefront of New Trends
Several trends were evident at this year’s show and could be making their way to home improvement stores in the months ahead.
What’s Old Is New Again
Nearly every manufacturer displayed retro appliances redesigned to include modern conveniences. Stainless steel and black stainless steel in particular continue to dominate over simple white and bisque finishes. ‘50s-inspired pastels were also back in vogue on the showfloor.
Sinks Finish the Look
Vessel sinks, both ceramic and metal, were popular on the showfloor and could catch on with customers. Standalone bathtubs, similar to vintage clawfoot tubs, but with modern esthetics, were also plentiful at the event.
Clean Up Your Life
One of the major trends was a focus on space efficiency and organization. Cabinet organizers in particular will help homeowners keep clutter out of their cabinets. Space-saving appliances equipped with the functionality of full-size units are also indicative of new home improvement products being designed to fit shoppers’ changing lifestyles.
Outdoor Opportunities
Another theme evident at KBIS was making outdoor spaces as comfortable and usable as indoor spacing, particularly for entertaining. Many manufacturers are making the case that the kitchen now extends into the backyard. Bringing the outside in, that is, making indoor spaces feel open and incorporating an outdoor esthetic also seemed to be trending.
Fit for a King
The show prominently displayed granite and quartz countertop slabs, decorative tile samples and cabinet hardware displayed like jewelry. Working displays of showerheads and spa tubs made for impressive demonstrations, and for anyone who found the air-conditioned interiors too cool, there were working fireplace displays.
The Smartest House on the Block
Smart home technology continues to be refined and developed for every room of a home, even the bathroom. Now, multifunctional toilets and showerheads incorporate Bluetooth speakers so homeowners can listen to their favorite tunes right in the shower. For many manufacturers, the kitchen is the focal point of smart technology. Many brands are now offering interconnected ranges, refrigerators, microwaves and more.
Prepare for Next Year’s Event
The 2021 KBIS event will take place in Orlando Feb. 9-11. For more information on the event, visit KBIS online.
