Current Design Trends
Color: Many of the trends seen in our market come from the fashion industry at least a season ahead of the launch. Manufacturers of the various countertop materials take their cue from the current fashion color trends set forward by the hottest design houses. White is still one of the hottest trends (since last year) and it doesn't seem to be slowing down. Pure and subtle white patterns are the top sellers in countertop colors, followed by grays and natural tones. Countertop suppliers can't keep enough of the whites in stock.
Design: One of the most requested design element in countertop design is the "waterfall" effect, especially in quartz material. Waterfalls at islands and peninsulas are the most popular but we are seeing more requests for waterfall panel details in baths and laundry rooms.
Working With Professionals
Certified Kitchen & Bath Designers: NKBA promotes working with certified designers who have been specifically trained in space planning and design/construction details. These individuals require years of experience and need to pass stringent testing to obtain certification. Before finalizing your kitchen or bath design, consider hiring a seasoned professional to give you guidance. This can save you money down the line by preventing costly design mistakes.
Other Industry Professionals: There are many designers and contractors that have chosen not to pursue specific design certification and should highly be considered if you are looking for help. The NKBA consists of various professionals who are trained in their field but do not necessarily hold a kitchen/bath design certification (contractors, designers, cabinet makers and suppliers, countertop fabricators, appliance suppliers, etc). For more information on working with an NKBA Pro, visit the NBKA website for more information.