BlogTour Milan: Salone Kitchen Trends + NKBA | CLOTH & KIND
We had such fun walking the endless EuroCucina at Salone del Mobile while there with BlogTour Milan this past month and wanted to share some of the most prominent kitchen trends that we spied. And, because we're fortunate enough to be connected with the NKBA (National Kitchen and Bath Association), we asked current President, John Petrie, and President Elect, Maria Stapperfene to weigh in with their opinions on this topic as well. Here are our collective thoughts on the best kitchen trends, straight from Milan.
One thing there was no shortage of this year at Salone del Mobile were massive kitchen islands, and islands that doubled as tables with seating for 6-8+, some constructed with a variety of materials, many rough hewn and/or purposely left with unfinished details. Perhaps the most decadent example of the behemoth island was at the Armani Dada showroom where we saw a stunningly huge and equally thick marble slab that pushed back with the touch of one finger to reveal functional island storage below it.
'We saw several large islands at EuroCucina. Many were designed with different counter surfaces. I think the trend has already started here in the US and will only get stronger. The trend for 'open kitchens' continues to grow here in the states, which allows for larger islands with integrated seating and innovative storage.' - John Petrie
BlogTour Milan: Kitchen Trends + NKBA | CLOTH & KIND
As far as we are concerned, highly functionally yet innovative kitchen and bath cabinet design is the mark of a true genius. We saw multiple examples of this all over Salone in EuroCucina and were especially impressed with the clever use of that oft-designed vacuous hole under your sink or cooktop. Turns out, if designed well, it can organize and store all kinds of things! Who knew?!
'I was struck by the use of drawers for storage, especially under the kitchen sink. Very clever.' -John Petrie
BlogTour Milan: Kitchen Trends + NKBA | CLOTH & KIND
Color and mixed metals were abundant at this year’s Salone del Mobile. Interesting splashes of vibrant hues rocked light fixtures and cabinetry in kitchen and bath alike, including whimsical touches like the inside of this vibrant green sink paired with a patinaed brass faucet. The lesson here is for us all to take a colorful cue from our friends across the pond and embrace color where we’ve traditionally gone safe and neutral.
'There was a plumbing manufacturer that had lime green fixtures along with yellow and orange - this was pretty surprising! While a mix of colors and woods seemed to be pretty prevalent, there was one appliance manufacturer that stood out - BEST hoods. They had lots of colors! They even had bold colored designs and patterns on their hoods. All lined up in rows looking like a dessert bar which was fun and fabulous. Color makes us happy.' - Maria Stapperfenne
So, tell us. Which of these trends would you incorporate into your own kitchen (...and which wouldn't you dream of)?
BlogTour Milan Sponsors | Modenus, BLANCO America, Gessi, Clever Storage by Kesseboehmer, Dekton by Cosentino, National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA).
Image Credits | Krista Nye Schwartz & Tami Ramsay of CLOTH & KIND, Chasen West Photography for BlogTour Milan