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These are the currents we see swirling through the K&B industry today.

By Nicholas Tamarin

We are in the midst of an unprecedented shift in how we design our kitchens and baths. Innovative products, tools and techniques are vastly improving functionality, aesthetics, efficiency and, perhaps most importantly, sustainability. From leather made out of fungi to smart faucets, here is an exploration of the advances that are currently emerging to significantly transform the spaces that are so essential to the convenience of our daily lives.

1. Natural and Organic Materials 

The use of natural and sustainable materials like eco-friendly tiles and reclaimed wood, quartz and concrete for countertops, backsplashes, flooring and textiles is providing more organic and calming atmospheres. A major player in this category is mushroom leather. The manufacturers of this material, which include Life Materials, MycoWorks, Bolt Threads, and EcoVative, transform mycelium, or the root system of the fungus, into a petroleum-free, durable vegan alternative with nearly endless visual possibilities.

2. Biophilic Design

Incorporating elements of nature into kitchen and bath design isn’t exactly new — but it’s not going anywhere any time soon either. Currently in vogue due to its mental health and environmental benefits, many are using materials accessible at any Home Depot, such as indoor plants and large windows, to create a connection with the outdoors and promote well-being. Products with nature-themed graphics, and those in natural colors and earth tones, can also play a part in this sustainable aesthetic.

3. Tile Tech 

Digital printing is being used to create eye-catching focal points in kitchens and baths, whether through intricate patterns, textured surfaces or backsplashes with bold patterns and vibrant colors. This easily customizable process lends itself particularly well to large-format tiles like the ones that Spanish manufacturer Porcelanosa produces through its longstanding partnership with System Ceramics. Together, these companies provide numerous configurations and a wide range of graphic effects while improving print quality, resolving process defects and reducing raw material waste.

4. Smart Faucets

Smart faucets have become significantly popular as of late. These faucets, available from manufacturers including Kohler, are equipped with touchless controls that allow users to effortlessly control water flow and temperature. Some smart faucets also include customizable water settings, auto shut-off functions and water-saving capabilities, offering consumers both convenience and sustainability.

5. Sustainable, Small Space Solutions

Brands are catering to eco-friendly small spaces by offering streamlined kitchen appliances and bath solutions. Case in point: Duravit’s No. 1 collection. Including a modular wall-mounted vanity, sink and mirror along with footage-optimizing and water-saving options for tubs and toilets, this sustainable set presents a fully customizable design experience that makes bath design a cinch no matter the size of the space. Duravit also created DuraCeram, a material that is thinner than conventional bath ceramic but just as strong — so when the brand creates products such as washbasins with the product, they are lighter than the ceramic alternative, which reduces raw material consumption further.