NKBA Reveals Top 10 Industry Trends for 2013

The National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) has released the top 10 kitchen and bath design trends to watch out for in the coming year. The annual design trends survey witnessed participation from over 300 American and Canadian member-designers, who reported the materials, product types, and design styles they specified over the final three months of 2012.

"As members of the NKBA, the kitchen and bath industry's foremost professional association, our designers demonstrate comprehensive knowledge in kitchen and bath design," said John Morgan, 2013 NKBA president. "They excel in evaluating homeowners' specific needs and creating designs that inspire. It will be interesting to discover the trends that emerge from the rich experience of these creative, talented individuals."

The overall design trends identified for 2012 included gray color schemes in both kitchens and baths. Used currently in 55 percent of kitchens and 55 percent of bathrooms, gray tones have escalated since 2010 and over the past year.

Continuing a previous trend, transitional-style kitchens and baths have surpassed traditional styles, a longstanding favorite until 2012. While the use of quartz finishes was in slight decline last year, it has surfaced as a trendsetter this year second only to granite.

The survey showed no growth in consumer outlays. According to the latest report, homeowners were spending more on their kitchen and bath remodels a year ago. The total cost of the average kitchen and of the average bath design in 2012 was $51,050 and $18,575, respectively, but the most recent figures have dipped to $47,308 in kitchens, while staying steady at $18,538 in bathrooms.

A few of the other top trending design components include white painted cabinetry, glass backsplashes, LED lighting, touch-activated faucets and satin-nickel finishes in kitchens; and ceramic/porcelain tiles and undermount sinks in bathrooms.

For further details, download the full 2013 NKBA Kitchen and Bath Style Report here.

Pictured: Alno's AlnoStar Cera kitchen

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NKBA Reveals Top 10 Industry Trends for 2013