Kitchen & Bath Business - February/March 2018 - 16

While high gloss might not always be accepted
by the American market, those looking for modern designs can also use these pops of color. Since
Euro-style cabinetry is usually white, homeowners
hoping for a slightly more welcoming look can
benefit from a small introduction of color.
"For contemporary consumers, we are seeing
them mix finishes and textures to create more
livable spaces,"said Alexa Noel, KraftMaid senior
manager of innovation and research. "Instead of
white high gloss that looks like it can't be touched,
we are seeing them incorporate warmer finishes
like a textural foil or light-stained woods."

Trends

HIDDEN TECHNOLOGY

Cabinets might not be Wi-Fi connected yet, but
they still offer smart solutions for the modern consumer. Most of these are for concealing electronics. ABOVE SCAVOLINI's new proj"We are using technology more in our kitchens, ect, Carattere, features more
but many consumers don't necessarily want to see traditional cabinetry with a
door. The frame door is
it," said Noel. "We have focused our product de- frame
available in a matte lacquered
velopment efforts on different ways that cabinetry finish and in a wide range of
can hide, charge and display a consumer's devices." white and gray shades, as well
in a veneered version in five
Computers and TVs can all reside inside cabi- as
colors. The model can also
netry using a tambour, pocket or lift-up door, and feature plain doors offered in
stereo components can be stowed behind doors the same colors.
with wire inserts that won't hinder sound. Along RIGHT WOOD-MODE FINE
with offering interior electronic outlets, cabinets CUSTOM CABINETRY has
can also be specifically designed for charging introduced the Fineline Cutlery
Calculator, a tool for designers
phones, tablets and laptops.
that determines the correct
"U.S. cabinet manufacturers feel a lot of pres- insert size and number of acsure these days - consumers continue to spend cessory lots available for any
custom space within a drawer.
large portions of their budget on countertops Available in birch, white oak,
and appliances, and cabinetry can seem relatively cherry, walnut and mahogany,
cutlery organization and
boring in comparison," said Nauman. "I believe the
matching accessories are dethis is unleashing a torrent of new developments signed to match the naturally
finished drawer box.
in cabinetry."
Along with creating storage that allows users BELOW RIGHT KRAFTMAID's
to easily charge and use their technology, Nau- Aged Finish Technique creates
man expects to see more cabinetry with innova- the look of lived-in character
in the kitchen. It begins with a
tive hardware and lighting. The newest hinges, light over-sanding applied to
cabinet mechanisms and lighting will allow users corners, edges and relief areas
to access and see more of their cabinetry with to start the aging process, and
effects such as wormholes
increased ease.
and distressing marks are ranCabinet manufacturers have also been innovat- domly applied by hand to echo
ing in the factory and making more customized the feel of a well-worn piece.
cabinet interiors and smaller shelf-support holes.
Other improvements include laser edge-banded
products, which help eliminate a glue line on cabinets, and the new textured woodgrain foils that are
comparable to the feel of natural wood. With the demand for more customization inside the cabinets, manufacturers are likely to perfect the applications
built into each cabinet, from spice or wine storage.
"People are expecting their kitchens and cabinetry to do more for them,"
said Stewart. "As they continue to become more proficient in baking and
cooking - and with the restaurant-grade kitchen appliances being introduced
to them - they will want their cabinetry to be more efficient and suited to
their specific needs."
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Kitchen & Bath Business / FEB.-MARCH 2018 / KBBONLINE.COM / The official publication of KBIS (KBIS.com)

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Kitchen & Bath Business - February/March 2018

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