We are well into 2009, and it is time to unveil not only the trends that have solidly established themselves,
but some 2010 design predictions for Kitchens & Baths. It’s no surprise that we are staying in our homes longer now,
appreciating what we have, and upgrading where we can. Those upgrades are strongly focused on kitchens and baths
(but only after the priority purchase of that big screen TV, of course).
Here’s what is happening on the trend front:
KITCHENS:
- Glass tiles with translucent qualities are a huge design trend for kitchens and baths, as accents for walls
and counters. Combining glass accents with heavier materials (metals, porcelain tile, natural stone) allows for
contrasts in design that become a visual and tactile treat.
- Granite countertops still command the lead for upgraded counter materials. Sealing the granite at
least once a year enhances its stain resistance and improves the function of this “designed by nature” countertop.
- Good design dictates that “form follow function”. And consumers have found a way to rev up the functionality of
their kitchen & bath designs by adding heated coil underlayments to stone and tile floors. Those beautiful hard surface
floors are ice cold underfoot, and this new trend makes them much more comfortable.
- Color is the magic element that ranks high on the trend list. Natural colors are the most versatile, but
designers are incorporating bolder, gem-like colors into K & B designs as well. Reds, cobalt blues, emerald
greens and deep topaz are on the “HOT” list.
- Tin ceilings are adding vintage character to kitchens across the country. It might be the real thing in
tin or copper, or it might be an embossed white-on-white wall covering that can be painted a metallic color.
The latter option is a great money saver and looks like the real thing. These embossed wall coverings are lightweight
and highly dimensional. They lend themselves to be painted in any color you choose--or for a pristine, traditional look,
just leave them white. They are easy to install and the varied patterns hide seams beautifully. Embossed wall coverings
are often in stock at your local paint and wallpaper store.
- If you have a roomy kitchen, stone hearths are becoming very popular (a bit of Americana borrowed from Colonial
times). Oversized, dramatic hearths in natural stone add warmth and character to any kitchen.
- Sinks are now becoming the artistic focal point of the bathroom. Hand-painted, translucent sinks in every color
imaginable are hot commodities, and not as costly as you might think. Consider this option as “jewelry” for your bathroom.
Add to that complementary glass tiles to your floor design (not a misspelling—color “complements” are opposite colors on
the color wheel), and you have a bath that sparkles with elegance.
- Square footage is being stolen from adjacent areas of the home to increase the size of the Master Bath.
The addition of a comfortable chaise or a plush ottoman in the room allows for a place to sit, reflect and relax.
Adding one luxurious piece of furniture to the bath space can transform the room into a spa-like retreat.
- While over-the-top luxury is not a design trend given the current questionable economy, adding a small
crystal chandelier to the bathroom is definitely a way to make a classic statement without being ostentatious.
- According to a survey by American Standard Corp., Americans are choosing a whirlpool tub as the number one item on
their bathroom wish list. Manufacturers have even designed corner whirlpool units that can fit into smaller spaces.
- Stainless steel has already made a great name for itself in kitchens. Bulletin: Stainless is making its way into
bathrooms as well! Stainless bathroom sinks (and even tubs) are available now for a clean, contemporary look.
Also stainless decorative wall panels for shower surrounds are an option. Brushed or hammered decorative finishes keep
the material from appearing too stark and minimizes water spots as well.
- You already read in the kitchen design trends segment that mixing “visual weights” of design materials is a
creative stroke of genius. This extends to bathroom design as well. Glass tile is a natural to pair with colorful
translucent sinks, but picture floors that incorporate stone, wood and glass for a breathtaking juxtaposition of
delicate elements to nature’s heavier materials. Once again, doing something unexpected will make any design memorable.
- One last trend of note is the use of specialty lighting to transform the environment, especially in the bathroom.
Use indirect, ambient lighting for tub areas, and brighter, directed lighting for mirrors and vanities. Dimmer switches
control mood and function.
If you are getting the message that design is all about COMFORT as these new trends unfold—you are right!
Americans are focused on creating a cozy, safe haven for themselves and their families in this very unstable world.
And the “hot” recipe for good design right now calls for comfort to be the main ingredient. So get creative, go bold,
and if you are unsure as to how to achieve the right mix of materials, call in a design expert. Sometimes for an hourly
fee (and you may only need one or two hours of creative time), you avoid making serious--and costly-- mistakes.
A good designer can put together a design “road map” for you that can save hours of frustration, and understandably,
clients are usually delighted with the end results.
Any article focused on trends would be incomplete without giving you a peak into the colors forecasted for Fall
2009 and 2010. Throughout this article, you’ve read mention of “gem-like” colors, and that is exactly the direction of
the emerging hues. Consider that color forecasts have to be decided two years prior to release. Given that fact, I
would say that Color Marketing Group International (the number one color-forecasting group in America) was spot-on as to
their early research and predictions. I have the privilege of being a Chair Holder for CMG and my West Coast Interiors
forecast is based on their data. Here are some of the rising stars in the new palette:
POPPY - A coral-based red. This color pairs well with whites and coastal blues.
CARAMELLO – a rich, caramel-flavored gold that transitions beautifully between traditional and contemporary interiors.
VIOLET SATIN - A mid-toned lavender that was strongly influenced by the technology sector. This color can transition
from soft surfaces (carpet & fabrics) to hard surface applications (like appliances) effortlessly.
OLDENSAGE – This color is a complex neutral that changes with the light of day. It’s a mixture of grey and brown
undertones, while wearing a mantle of soft green.
PERFECTION – Think of creamy cosmetics and you will get the flawless, porcelain look of this peach-influenced beige.
BOTANICO – This fresh, fun green speaks of the softening and bluing of greens. We’ve enjoyed the leafy yellow-based
greens for some time, and they are not waning, but now we have a fresh, cooler version of green to add to the palette.
PERPETUAL – This is a deep, Military Blue that embodies style and grace. It’s crisp, tailored and very traditional.
BLUE VIBRANCE – This color practically vibrates with energy. Its inspiration comes from a clear blue sky on a
winter’s day.
WAVERUNNER – This highly saturated blue-green is dark and complex. The fashion industry, the automotive industry,
and now home interiors are all in love with this color. It’s an interesting mix of blue, gray and green, and has
chameleon qualities to change with the light.
SEACREST – This is the palest, most ethereal melding of green and gray. This color embraces the message of
“sustainability”, and reminds us of our responsibility to care for the Earth.
RASPLENDENT – Picture frosty raspberry flavored sherbet on a hot summer’s day and that visual will equate to
Rasplendent. This is the strongest hue in the new palette and will complement home interiors in fabrics and accessories.
All of the new trends outlined in this article are equally important, but defining your rooms with color will always
make a huge statement about your personality. After all, it provides the backdrop for everything else in the room.
So get creative, have fun with your design, and first and foremost, think color!!!