By NKBA K+B Insiders Alberto Villalobos and Mercedes Desio, Villalobos Desio, New York, NY
Just like a car, a kitchen and bath are a sum of their parts—every aspect of their design should reflect their craftsmanship and performance. The relationship between design, craftsmanship and performance in the auto industry inspires our approach to design—it all has to work harmoniously.
Each year at the New York International Auto Show, leading manufacturers unveil models for the coming year— drawing close to a million attendees. Here are our takeaways from the Auto Show floor that translate to K+B design:
1. Hyper efficiency and high performance
Porsche debuted three new models at this year show. The 911 R Model, pictured below, relies on systematic lightweight construction and maximum performance. The car reflects attention to detail not only in the selection of materials, but also in the technology involved. The roof of the car is crafted from a sheet of Magnesium; the fenders, luggage lid and seat backrests are made of molded carbon fiber and the handles are replaced by fabric loops.
The design of the Poggenpohl P7340 kitchen, built with similar attention to detail, reflects this same kind of hyper efficiency and high performance. The kitchen cabinets, framed in aluminum, are simple, linear and allow for maximum customization that reflects the concept of personal luxury. Like in the car, traditional handles are replaced by handless fronts, and the countertops are made with Dekton, a new and impressive material.
2. From clutter to clean lines
The interiors of the Mercedes Benz cars we saw were characterized by classic color combinations made unique by the way the material was treated, or by the way the tone on tone materials were mixed and stitched together with vibrant colored thread. These details and colors reflect a subtle elegance that generates a response when seen in interiors. In our kitchen and bath designs, we use tone on tone materials, play with different patterns that mix pleasantly and include simple details that accentuate the minimal lines of the overall space to eliminate visual clutter.
3. Design that makes a difference
Many types of cars at the New York International Auto Show were easily identifiable by their front grills. Each one has a particular design detail that is unique to its DNA. Design details are what make a space great, and each designer has their own trademark that adds their identity to a space. We believe that small details are essential to look out for. Because we experience a room from its smallest to largest parts, we take great consideration in things such as the stitching in a sofa, the craftsmanship of a piece, the combination of woods, and more.
4. Mixing finishes to add visual interest
An interesting combination we noticed across the luxury car models, including the Rolls Royce Phantom, was a mix of matte and glossy finishes. This look is both an inspiration and a validation reminding us that thinking outside the box brings out bold and elegant results. It also showcases that any finish can be mixed in moderation. We have seen several kitchen and bath tiles, faucets, hardware and appliances embracing new materials and finishes, specifically Brizo’s new Solna kitchen faucet in black matte. This statement-making faucet, juxtaposed against a glossy countertop, resembles the Rolls Royce inspired look, and we cannot wait to include it in our future projects.
Throughout 2016, the NKBA K+B Insiders will report on the latest industry trends from across the globe, must-attend events and top industry trade shows. Next stop: Euro Cucina 2016 in Milan, Italy. Stay up-to-date on the latest trends with #KBInsider on Twitter and Facebook, and through the K+B Insider’s guest blog posts on the NKBA blog.
