KBB - March 2011 - (Page 20)

T rends Simple Solutions Streamlined faucets are in; visual clutter is out While the majority of us may still be “traditionalists” when it comes to our kitchen cabinetry, as a recent NKBA survey indicated, our faucet preferences seem to be a different story. Or are they? Just as traditional-style kitchens have been shedding formality and heavy ornamentation for a more casual aesthetic, so too have faucet designs, even those with Old-World inspirations. As noted by Jessica Schroeder, product manager for Kohler kitchen faucets, classically minded consumers are “looking for more of a relaxed or refreshed traditional that isn’t as ornate as it has been.” Keeping it Simple Old World or new, kitchen faucets with simpler looks and cleaner lines are definitely in. However, according to Judd Lord, director of industrial design at Delta Faucet Co., “The needle is moving more toward the contemporary end of the style spectrum, and consumers are choosing products that range from soft contemporary to modern and geometric architecture.” In fact, designer Kristin Okeley, of Indianapolis-based Kitchens by Design, will often incorporate a contemporary faucet for clients who want to update their traditional-style kitchens without changing out their cabinets. And today’s sleeker, understated faucets are ideal for mixing and matching styles, as many are not statement-makers in themselves but are designed to blend with other elements in the kitchen, said Schroeder. Naturally, selecting a flattering finish can help with integration. Warm bronzes can add softness to a modern design and continue to enjoy a following, noted Lord. Continued on page 22 For serious at-home chefs, Blanco’s Culina may be the new must-have. A semi-professional pull-down faucet, it features a flexible steel spring spout and measures 22 in. tall with an 85/8-in. extended reach. After use, its dual-function sprayhead and coil snap back into place when the spout is held near a magnetic feature. The faucet has a 2.2-gpm flow rate and is offered in polished chrome or stainless steel. Circle no. 200 From Kohler, the Elate pullout faucet ensures easy maneuvering, thanks to the company’s ProMotion technology, which uses a braided nylon hose with internal metal coiling and a ball joint swivel sprayhead. Available in polished chrome or Vibrant stainless, it offers three spray functions—aerate, spay and pause—and, when fully extended, can be used to complete tasks outside of the sink. Circle no. 201 Franke’s FF2500 is a contemporary-style high-arc faucet that features a dual-function pull-down sprayhead and a durable, stainless-steel hose. At 177/8 in. tall with an 81/4-in. reach, it easily accommodates large pots, while its sleekly classic form—available in chrome, Old World bronze and satin nickel—makes it a versatile addition to kitchen environments in a variety of styles. To boot, the faucet comes with a lifetime warranty. Circle no. 202 20 + K BB March 2011 / www.kbbonline.com / The Official Sponsor of KBIS www.kbis.com http://www.kbbonline.com http://www.kbis.com

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of KBB - March 2011

KBB - March 2011
Contents
Online Contents
Online News
Editorial
Consumer
Trends
Products
Design
Spa Treatment
Classical Edge
Cover Story
Ad Index
Favorites

KBB - March 2011