KBIS Trend Report—Smart Appliances & High-Tech Homes
January 31, 2018Fun & Funky Finds at KBIS 2018
February 14, 2018A great idea is often illustrated with a lightbulb turning on, or described in terms of a “switch being flipped.” Some of the most interesting innovations lighting up this year’s Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS) can be accessed with just a flip of a switch. From small, inexpensive solutions to big, bold lighting fixtures, homeowners are looking for more useful, more beautiful ways to illuminate their homes, and our industry friends have delivered.
Task Lighting
In the kitchen and the bath, more practical lighting means lighting for the task at hand. Using ‘layers’ of light improves both the function and the feel of a space. For example, in the kitchen:
- Mounting lighting under top cabinets creates task lighting for food preparation;
- Interior cabinet lights make for more efficient use of space, and create ambiance;
- A statement light fixture can pull an entire room together, and in the kitchen it provides another layer of practical light for meal preparation and entertaining.
Better Bathroom Lighting
We couldn’t take our eyes off Cosentino’s DeKauri freestanding enclosed bathroom vanity. Produced with Italian furniture manufacturer Riva 1920, the DeKauri was crafted from 50,000 year old Kauri wood and takes its inspiration directly from the traditional Italian credenza—beautiful, functional, and unique. The counter, sink, and lighting are quickly tucked away when its doors—constructed from inlays of Walnut, Wenge, and Cedar—are closed. In small shared spaces, this is a ‘do not disturb’ solution.
Great Gadgets
Cabinets & Designs president Maria Frank can’t resist a great gadget, and she always finds at least one at KBIS.
“A lot of times I find these little things that make life easier, and I love that,” she said. “Especially something that might make it a little easier to age-in-place, or for multiple generations of a family to live together.”
This year one of Maria’s favorite gadgets was the Toe-Kick Switch for the garbage disposal. It’s hands-free, discreet, and easy to install, the Toe-Kick Switch is also affordable at less than $100.
Our friends at Kohler created our other favorite gadget from KBIS 2018—their cleansing toilet seat. For less than $500, you can add soothing, warm-water cleansing to your daily routine; the seat includes a remote control and a Quiet-Close lid, plus adjustable water temperature and pressure.
Call Cabinets & Designs at 713-627-8970 to make an appointment to work with one of our talented kitchen designers. Don’t forget to stay connected with us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Houzz!
