Kitchen & Bathroom Trends 2023
We have gathered input from leading editors and designers across the country to pinpoint four of the most prominent design features that are currently making waves. Take a look at what you can anticipate encountering in kitchen and bathroom designs in 2023!
Expanding the Kitchen
According to Lauren Schulte, a member of the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) and owner/designer of Monarch Kitchen Design Studio, the growing popularity of open-concept kitchens has led to a shift in kitchen design. It now extends beyond the kitchen itself to incorporate areas such as pantries, mudrooms, dining rooms, and half baths. In homes with an open floor plan, kitchen design is interconnected with other living areas.
Schulte explains that the goal is not to create a space that feels like one large extended kitchen, but rather to ensure that the various areas flow seamlessly into one another, serving different functions and blending harmoniously. The connectivity of the kitchen directly influences its design. Homeowners now desire a kitchen that not only looks appealing but also functions well within the larger interconnected space, emphasizing continuous visibility.
Architectural Digest, in their recent coverage of KBIS trends, refers to this style as “graphite nickel.” They highlight Native Trails’ Gunmetal finish, a recent addition to their Precious Metals Collection of fireclay sink basins, as a prime example. AD appreciates how this line can beautifully reflect soft, ambient light, setting it apart from the matte blacks of the past.
In addition, AD mentions Baldwin’s upcoming Graphite Nickel finish, which will be available in over 5,000 hardware styles, and Brizo’s expansion of its Brilliance Black Onyx finish. Chung also praises our Gunmetal finish, alongside Monogram Appliances’ Titanium Collection of appliances in dark-charcoal muted tones, Belwith Keeler’s darker and moodier hardware finishes, and Grothouse Inc.’s Anvil line of wood surfaces that mimic metal countertops.
Metallic black finishes
After attending the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS), designer Jeanne Chung from Cozy Stylish Chic observed a rising trend in rich, darker, and weather-worn metal finishes. She describes this trend as a softer and more sophisticated alternative to matte black, often referred to as “soft black” or “titanium.” Chung finds these finishes absolutely stunning.
Architectural Digest, in their recent coverage of KBIS trends, refers to this style as “graphite nickel.” They highlight Native Trails’ Gunmetal finish, a recent addition to their Precious Metals Collection of fireclay sink basins, as a prime example. AD appreciates how this line can beautifully reflect soft, ambient light, setting it apart from the matte blacks of the past.
In addition, AD mentions Baldwin’s upcoming Graphite Nickel finish, which will be available in over 5,000 hardware styles, and Brizo’s expansion of its Brilliance Black Onyx finish. Chung also praises our Gunmetal finish, alongside Monogram Appliances’ Titanium Collection of appliances in dark-charcoal muted tones, Belwith Keeler’s darker and moodier hardware finishes, and Grothouse Inc.’s Anvil line of wood surfaces that mimic metal countertops.
Kitchens rooted in Tradition
Pinterest’s annual trends report provides valuable insights into upcoming trends by analyzing the increasing search trends of its users. Rather than making random predictions, the report focuses on what people are actively searching for. In terms of interior design trends for the current year, Pinterest predicts the emergence of the “hipstoric” home. This prediction is based on an 850% increase in searches for “eclectic interior design vintage” and a 530% surge in searches for “mixing modern and antique furniture.”
Rachel Edwards, content editor at House Beautiful, explains that the heritage trend initially gained traction in kitchens, with traditional design elements such as farmhouse sinks, pantries, charming ruffled curtains, and classic shaker cabinetry taking the spotlight. Edwards also mentions timeless design features like herringbone floors, scallop-edge details, ticking stripes, and ruffles.
Architectural Digest, in their recent coverage of KBIS trends, refers to this style as “graphite nickel.” They highlight Native Trails’ Gunmetal finish, a recent addition to their Precious Metals Collection of fireclay sink basins, as a prime example. AD appreciates how this line can beautifully reflect soft, ambient light, setting it apart from the matte blacks of the past.
In addition, AD mentions Baldwin’s upcoming Graphite Nickel finish, which will be available in over 5,000 hardware styles, and Brizo’s expansion of its Brilliance Black Onyx finish. Chung also praises our Gunmetal finish, alongside Monogram Appliances’ Titanium Collection of appliances in dark-charcoal muted tones, Belwith Keeler’s darker and moodier hardware finishes, and Grothouse Inc.’s Anvil line of wood surfaces that mimic metal countertops.
Wellness bathrooms
In 2023, we witness the emergence of the “wellness bathroom,” as homeowners, seeking to recreate the serene spa experience within their homes, prioritize features that enhance wellness during bathroom remodels.
For many, the ultimate relaxation comes from indulging in soothing soaker tubs, while others are drawn to the allure of rejuvenating in a technologically advanced bathroom. One notable attraction at KBIS is Brizo’s new Mystix Steam System shower, available in two variations: the standard Elemental steam shower with temperature control, and the upgraded Transcendent version, offering therapeutic options like chromatherapy, aromatherapy, and audiotherapy. Delta’s SteamScape series offers similar features, and Kohler’s Sprig line adds a delightful touch by infusing shower water with scents from pods, such as eucalyptus and mint, clary sage and patchouli, and lavender and vanilla.
In addition to steam showers and chromotherapy, other popular elements of the wellness bathroom include at-home infrared saunas, cold plunge tubs, invigorating rain showers, and bidet/toilet hybrids. These features cater to the increasing demand for wellness-enhancing experiences within the confines of one’s own bathroom.
