Ahead of the Curve

As most designers strive to stay abreast of current trends - and ahead of the curve - the task of anticipating the "next big thing" takes on added importance. When this is combined with an increasingly educated and discerning clientele, the result is an ever-evolving design landscape.

Today's kitchen and bath designers are finding that "anything goes," as designs are featuring a more eclectic tone - characterized by simplicity - yet still with complex combinations of product and styles.

"Clients want a look that gives the appearance of a collection of furniture, rather than a fit kitchen," offers Anthony Carucci, manager for Staten Island, NY-based Kitchens N' Things." In keeping with that idea, "they might mix some contemporary and traditional elements in together."

"Colors and weathered woods are also becoming more popular," offers Vesta Snell, president of Sarasota, FL-based Inndesign Inc. "The other trend is that medium-range cabinetry is being expanded to fit higher-end needs.

"We are also seeing very decorative hood displays, and there is a lot going on with appliqués, corbels and different flutes," she adds.

"We are also seeing the cleaning up of lines," says Peggy McGowen, ASID, CMKBD and owner of Houston, TX-based Kitchen Concepts, Inc. "Specifically, there is a term called 'rectilinear design' that is characterized by lines that are clean, simple and straight."

"There is a definite Asian influence - especially with the rectilinear design. I think this is because people want to simplify their lives," she continues.

This also influences the trend toward efficiency, "whether it is efficiency in energy - such as electricity, gas or water - or in our own energy and ergonomics," explains McGowen.

Customers are also being more efficient with their money, budgeting more for value than just expense, say designers.

Indeed, they agree that clients are spending on a new kitchen or bath, or other remodeling projects and additions, yet they are demanding more value right along with luxury. They are not spending just to spend, they further indicate.

"People want quality and value, but they don't want to spend more money than they have to," McGowan adds.

Yet, "kitchen sizes are continuously getting larger, while people are cooking less," comments Snell. "We're seeing the addition of extra rooms, such as the butler's pantry, for instance."

Specifically, Maxine Lauer, founder and president of Waterford, MI-based Sphere Trending, cites the purchasing behaviors of "empty nester" couples - who are downsizing their primary homes while buying a second or even a third home - as one of the key reasons for these trends.

Lauer discussed this and other trends at the recent Moen Inc. "Inspire 2005" conference, held in San Antonio, TX.

She offered: "Interiors are dividing into 'iSpace' (haven rooms) and 'weSpace' (communal rooms). We are also seeing 'Insperience' rooms for the individual, such as for meditation, and for multiple people the inclusion of home theater systems."

Lauer also noted several styles that are taking hold among multiple generations. She cited two - the "Weekend Cottage" theme, which is characterized by a sophisticated country aesthetic, and the glamorous materials and styling of "Vintage Luxe" - as up-and-coming trends. Also of note, she believes, are such styles as "Traditions," which draws inspiration from the past; "Urban Chic," a look that relies on open spaces and a new feminine approach; and "Primitive Mod," which features a global influence.

Overall, Lauer predicted a continued trend toward "casual comfort" projects, which reinforces consumers' requests for spa-like environments and personal retreats.

"There is a softness and cleaner lines in the master bath, as with the kitchen," observes Snell.

Summarizing, Snell offers: "With kitchens, many times, the design idea is spurred by a kitchen they have seen in a television show or a movie. With the bathroom, it is usually finishes or features that they see in a hotel [that they want to replicate.]"