Key Takeaways:

• NKBA’s latest research shows Millennials are the key drivers of the integration of technology and design.
• Tech integrators need to be included early in the design process to ensure proper infrastructure, security and support are built in from the start.
• The best way to communicate with the Millennial customer is for designers to become adept at using the technology themselves, offering authentic experiences in their recommendations.

By Dianne M. Pogoda

Rapid advances in home technology are changing the way designers think about kitchen design and the expectations of their client base. In no demographic are expectations changing faster than among Millennials, who are driving the integration of technology and design.

With this emerging customer base in mind, NKBA’s latest study sought to provide designers with a path to successfully understand their motivations and needs, to communicate with them to build confidence, and to select the most appropriate technology products.

The “Kitchen Technology & Millennials” report discovered that this generation, commonly thought of as those between the ages 26 to 41, are an increasing percentage of the remodeling and home-buying client base compared to Gen X and Boomers. While they may have less-expensive projects now, they are gaining economic strength and rising in their careers, so their disposable income is growing. Further, this is the first generation of “digital natives” who understand how to use technology to make their lives easier, more convenient and efficient. And — another big plus that differentiates them from some of their elders — they have no fear of technology. They firmly believe that tech is essential in kitchen design.

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NKBA conducted one-hour interviews with Millennial tech and design experts to identify best practices from start to finish. Four designers, three cabinetry specialists, a tech integrator and an industry consultant participated. These findings, coupled with data gathered in the annual Design Trends study, formed the basis of the report.

Several trends and patterns emerged — some obvious, others a bit surprising. 

Advances in technology and ongoing product innovations are influencing product specification as well as design. Not a surprise: this has been going on for hundreds of years — the emergence of electric stoves, refrigerators and microwave ovens are prime examples of how new technologies dramatically changed kitchen design. 

What is still somewhat surprising is that only about 30 percent of kitchen projects integrate technology, and what’s more, fewer than 10 percent regularly use a tech integrator. Yet, among those who have collaborated, 66 percent say they are somewhat or completely satisfied with the experience.

Technology is no longer an out-of-reach expense. It has become part of the mainstream, and once people see it in action, they realize that they want or need it. For example, lighted interior cabinets, push-to-open drawers, cabinets, refrigerators, charging stations or even counters with high-tech surfaces or heating elements built in are becoming highly desirable features. Additionally, remote appliance diagnosis and repair, streaming over the Internet, saves time and the cost of technician visits.

The design process must start smart, bringing in a tech integrator at a very early stage to help plan for adequate infrastructure, electrical work and network security.

The study found that kitchen designers must level-up on design-plus-technology to remain relevant with this consumer base. Millennial clients expect virtual meetings. In fact, designers who are able to provide virtual design support can expand the footprint of their businesses. 

Understanding, influencing and encouraging design-plus-technology amplifies the value of using a designer with the Millennial demographic. Remember that Millennials do a lot of research. They know enough to be dangerous, and designers can offer the credibility and experience that their Millennial clients lack. Designers can discern the difference between novelty and performance, and know the brands that stand behind their promises and performance. As with all design decisions, lifestyle needs should lead with all technology recommendations.

The study recommends five key ways to build a path for success:

• Build your team. Use expertise for each component: Design, Building and Integration.
• Equip yourself. Learn, be curious, use and install technology in your own home and work, build awareness and become fluent in the language and discipline of technology.
• Bring tech in at the start of the process. Understand client needs from the start, and see where tech can make the process smoother.
• Execute with excellence. Think security first, then integrate tech best practices into the process.
• Build in shelf life. Consider longevity in each aspect of design, and think in terms of the ability to update easily.

NKBA will publish more detail on these five strategies in the weeks to come. NKBA Members may download the report at no additional charge by clicking here. Non-members may purchase the report for $2,495.