Art Meets Design: KBIS and NKBA
As the Membership Chair of the National Kitchen & Bath Association Iowa Chapter, I attended training and the KBIS trade show that was insightful and inspirational.
I attended the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show in Orlando last week and spent a significant time on the show floor evaluating new product launches and innovations across kitchen and bath professionals. I left with clear, actionable takeaways to directly inform how I specify finishes, fixtures, appliances, and “detail moments” for Liz Lidgett Gallery + Design client projects. I noticed a strong industry shift toward designing kitchens and baths as highly considered, design-forward spaces; where performance, longevity, and beauty are expected to coexist. I have given a sneak peek into some of the reoccurring trends I found in the kitchen and bath trade industry.
Trend 1: “Jewelry” and Craft at the Forefront
- The most compelling booths emphasized quality and craft, even in everyday kitchen and bath categories.
- Decorative hardware and statement lighting were treated like the “jewelry” of the space, pieces that elevate cabinetry and surfaces rather than simply finishing them.
This creates an opportunity to thoughtfully layer hardware, lighting, and metal finishes in a way that adds depth and refinement to a space. By treating these elements as complementary rather than separate decisions, the overall result feels more curated giving kitchens and baths a stronger sense of individuality and a polished, lived-in character.
Trend 2: Function-First Without Sacrificing Form
- Across brands, there was a noticeable push toward better function, but with equal attention to proportion, finish, and overall visual integration.
- A major through-line was aging in place, with products that support longevity and accessibility while still feeling elevated and residential (not clinical).
- The health and wellness industry is increasingly influencing kitchen and bath innovation (comfort, ease of use, supportive features), and it’s showing up in subtle, design-friendly ways.
When designing for a client, I take a proactive approach to specifying products and materials that support long-term living, comfort, and evolving usability needs. My goal is to thoughtfully integrate features that anticipate future lifestyle shifts while enhancing day-to-day functionality. These considerations are never treated as purely practical add-ons, but are instead seamlessly woven into the overall design so that adaptability, ease, and comfort coexist within a refined and cohesive aesthetic.
Trend 3: True Customization is Becoming the Standard
- Customization was everywhere: appliance color customization to match or contrast cabinetry, expanded finish options, and more flexible sizing across categories.
- Brands are making it easier to create truly tailored solutions, custom details that feel integrated and intentional rather than “off the shelf.”
From a design standpoint, this creates greater opportunity to craft truly unique moments within a space. Through the use of custom appliance finishes, bespoke sizing, and thoughtfully considered detailing. Kitchen and baths can now move beyond standard solutions to become deeply personal environments. These tailored elements allow each space to feel intentional and distinctive, resulting in a design that is not only functional, but unmistakably one-of-one.
Moving forward, this will shape my design process at Liz Lidgett Gallery + Design by encouraging a more detail-focused approach to kitchens and baths... one that prioritizes the small yet impactful elements that make a space feel complete. I aim to bring conversations around future functionality into the planning phase sooner, ensuring that comfort and longevity are considered alongside aesthetics from day one. During selections, I’ll also introduce more opportunities for customization so clients can infuse their personality into the space while maintaining harmony with the broader architectural vision.
Do you have a space—or several spaces—that don’t feel like you? Or rooms that sit unused because they just don’t work for your lifestyle or spark emotion? At Liz Lidgett Gallery + Design, we specialize in creating spaces that not only function flawlessly but also reflect your personality, passion, and artful taste.
Whether it’s reimagining a cheerful breakfast nook or redesigning an entire home, we’re here to help you have a home that truly brings you happiness. Let’s work together to transform your environment into a joyful, personalized haven.
