KBB - May/June 2012 - (Page 22)

TRENDS In Transition Kitchen cabinetry embraces simplicity and an eclectic attitude There’s a new “it” style of kitchen, according to the NKBA’s 2012 Design Trends Survey. For the first time in the survey’s history, designers reported that transitional was the most oft requested type of design, with contemporary a close second.This may not come as a surprise, given the slow economic recovery, which has led consumers to embrace simplicity in their lives and their kitchens. Furthermore, as more homeowners remodel for themselves rather than quick resale, transitional looks, which fall somewhere in the middle of the style spectrum—not too fussy, not too cold—defy easy identification and may lend themselves more readily to eclecticism and self-expression. As John Troxell, director of design for WoodMode, said, transitional lifestyles “are comfortable with a wide range of design motifs and objects and are open to mixing them within their homes.” DOOR STYLES But what does this mean in terms of kitchen cabinetry? Though they still have their adherents, raised-panel designs with applied molding are on the decline, according to Peter Salerno, cmkbd, of Wyckoff, NJ-based Peter Salerno, Inc., whose new showroom features them in only one out of 14 displays. For those who still request the look, Salerno has turned to a thicker door—11/4 in. instead of 3/4 in.—rather than decorative flourishes to provide interest. He added, “The detailing is an ogee edge on the inside to catch a glaze or create a shadow when the light hits it.” Similarly, while sales for raised-panel doors continue to be healthy for companies such as Wellborn Cabinet and WoodMode, Troxell notes that the frames tend to be contoured or molded or have simple details that are “almost Shaker-like.” In fact, Shaker, along with its more streamlined slab counterpart, is in much demand. Updated with wider stiles and rails, as well as extra heft and the occasional beading or stepped edge, the former accounts for a large part of Salerno’s work. Conversely, in California and Hawaii, where Kristen Totah, asid, of Studio K Kitchens and Design, focuses her practice, the latter dominates. Of particular interest to her clientele, are flat-panel doors and drawers with concealed continuous grip handles and “purposefully integrated cabinetry” that resembles freestanding furniture or a part of the architecture, she said. IN THE MIX Some designers are incorporating both door types in one space and specifiying them in different finishes, as did Robert Schwartz, of St. Charles Kitchens, at the recent Kips Bay Decorator Show House in New York City. The mix of materials reflects the growing appetite for personalization. Janine Flamer, VP of marketing and public relations for Poggenpohl, said, “Consumers are moving beyond a single wood finish for their kitchens and are now selecting a modern mix of materials, such as textured wood laminates combined with high-gloss lacquers, glass and stainless steel accents.” As Salerno sees it, playing with materials, colors and textures has replaced carved molding as the way to make a personal statement in the kitchen. But are some more popular than others? Wood is tops, with maple and cherry leading the species, noted Troxell; walnut is ascendant as a premium option. Salerno sees a future in quarter-sawn white oak but also likes including less-used woods, 22 + K BB May/June 2012 / www.kbbonline.com / The Official Sponsor of KBIS www.kbis.com http://www.kbbonline.com http://www.kbis.com

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of KBB - May/June 2012

KBB - May/June 2012
Table of Contents
Online Contents
Editorial
Show Director’s Note
Road to KBIS
Web Savvy
Trends
Products
Abroad
Education
Ad Index
Favorites

KBB - May/June 2012