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Get Inspired A K&B garden of delights


ith the Kitchen & Bath In- dustry Show approaching later this month, now is a


good time to think about new sources of design inspiration and the latest trends in these products. The rules have changed somewhat from years past, when consumers were eager to outfit their homes in the latest “must have” look of the moment. In today’s econ- omy, savvy homeowners are thinking carefully before spending their dollars, and they are looking for fresh — yet smart — ideas that will enhance the value, beauty and enjoyment of their homes. As an industry professional, you know that staying abreast of the hottest design trends is crucial in posi- tioning your business to take advan- tage of rising consumer demand. You also understand the importance of pre- senting these trends to your customers in a way that highlights their value and longevity. Let’s take a look at the cut- ting-edge trends that are sure to make 2011 a year to remember.


Out with the old; in with the new Trends come and go as old standbys


are replaced with exciting new op- tions. In the bathroom, built-in tubs have seen their day. Freestanding tubs are the new standard, as consumers re- discover the elegance and comfort of these vintage-inspired tubs. Modern manufacturers create freestanding tubs in a wide variety of sizes and styles, some paying homage to the traditional claw-foot design, while others are de- cidedly contemporary. For example, the Toulouse tub by


Victoria & Albert was inspired by the French double-ended bateau baths from the 1860s and offers a classic el- egance that can easily accommodate two bathers. The Deauville tub, also by Victoria & Albert, has a more mod- ern sensibility, with chunky wooden feet and European flair. Both are crafted from the company’s signature volcanic limestone mix that is easy to care for and warm to the touch.


Victoria + albert Deauville Dwell


safety of temperature control. Standard sinks are also on the “out”


list for both kitchens and baths. Trendy consumers are taking full advantage of fashion-forward options offered by manufacturers such as Diamond Spas. Its copper trough skirted sink is sur- prisingly durable, adds warmth and style to the kitchen and is generously sized to keep up with the largest of modern families. For the bathroom, Diamond Spas offers a contemporary oval sink in sustainable stainless steel with a bowed front that mimics the de- sign of a coordinating tub.


Glass — a rising star


Textured glass is appearing every- where, from countertops to tabletops,


Leading kitchen and bath trends for 2011 W


Traditional showers have undergone


a metamorphosis, with a major move- ment towards frameless shower enclo- sures. Metal-framed showers tend to be clunky in design and difficult to clean. Frameless showers look signif- icantly sleeker and offer greater design flexibility. The Giada collection from Novellini comes in a variety of con- figurations to suit any bathroom space plan, including corner cubicles, free- standing panels, neo-angles or re- cessed designs. Another trend in shower design is the new classics, reminiscent of fine European hotels and timeless, vintage-inspired design. Sunrise Specialty leads this trend with a complete line of showers, faucets and tub fillers that feature the added


ThinkGlass counter top


flective. The trend here is towards light — clear finishes, whites, metallics — all coming together to create a sparkle that is airy and re- freshing. Surprisingly durable and maintenance-free, glass is one of the most in-demand materials for kitchen countertops. ThinkGlass uses eco- friendly, 100% recyclable glass to create its custom pieces, including an amazing variety of textures and col- ors that ensures that each glass cre- ation is a true work of art.


Sustainable stainless Another timeless trend in 2011 is


stainless steel; consumers are looking for sustainable options that will add lasting value to their homes. Lasertron is ahead of this trend with their artist-designed etched stainless


from backsplashes to floor tiles. It of- fers a fresh, shimmering glimpse into a new wave of sophisticated design possibilities. Heavy granites and dark finishes are being replaced with prod- ucts that are more transparent and re-


BY LINDA JENNINGS Special to TheWholeSaler


brook, recognized and collected worldwide, featured on PBS and in Florida Architecture magazine.


Haute hardware In 2011 it’s all about the details,


and decorative hardware continues to evolve with collections that add in- stant style and classic good looks for


•THE WHOLESALER® —APRIL 2011


reveal Designs FlW


you to enjoy, such as Atlas Home- wares’ new Browning and Shelley collections, both named after Eng- land’s most famous poets. They fea- ture three pieces — a knob and two sizes of pulls — and are available in brushed or polished nickel and Vene- tian bronze. Ashley Norton has unveiled new


pocket door hardware that is easy to operate. Crafted of solid bronze, it is available in dark bronze, light bronze, matte black or white bronze finishes. Reveal Designs has a new hard-


ware collection honoring the archi- tectural legacy of legendary architect


lasertron Painter Door Victoria + albert Toulouse


Sunrise Specialty 633 Deck Mounted Tub Filler


• Be sure to visit www.thewholesaler.com for web exclusive articles and videos! •


steel cabinetry doors. The innovative collection provides a new creative out- let for artists and designers alike, tak- ing art off the wall and blending it into cabinetry for interest and intrigue. Send in a favorite painting or graphic, and the company will custom-etch the signature work of art onto any selec- tion of stainless steel cabinetry door fronts. The exciting new series has made its debut featuring the talents of renowned abstract artist Sharon West-


Victoria + albert Double amalfi


Frank Lloyd Wright. Born out of a partnership between Reveal Designs and the Frank Lloyd Wright Founda- (Turn to Wellness... page 79.)


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