KBB - September 2011 - (Page 14)

T rends Efficiency Models Kitchen sinks ramp up in function and beauty Just as all of us are working harder, so too are our kitchen sinks. But whereas resources may be shrinking in the workplace, today’s kitchen sinks are multitasking more efficiently thanks to a bevy of new designs, new accessories—and even new thinking. In terms of functionality, “something good to remember is a sink is not just a sink,” Christy Emens, marketing communications manager at Blanco, said. “I think of it as a place where your meal begins and ends.” BEYOND THE BOWLS In fact, noted Emens, kitchen sink as food prep system may be the most important trend when it comes to this oft-overlooked workhorse. To this end, manufacturers have introduced models with grids and racks to prevent cookware and cutlery from cluttering the bottom of the sink and integral glides to accommodate everything from sliding cutting boards to prep containers and colanders. With kitchen footprints on a decline and counter space at a premium, accessories that allow prep work to be done over the sink and multiple tiers that make full use of the bowl depth can be a real spacesaver and convenience. Not everyone is a fan of integrated accessories, noted Michele Meierhofer, senior product manager for kitchen products at Kohler, as some consumers are concerned about where to store them when not in use. A few years ago, Kohler’s Stages sink included a rack system for storage, but a tiered interior may also offer some relief. For organizing cleaning necessities, such as sponges, brushes or soap, Elkay’s e-dock system employs a built-in magnetic device that enables users to attach a variety of storage aids to the sides of the sink, thus placing them within easy reach and minimizing clutter on countertops. Of course, there’s always the cabinet space under the sink, which designer Mick De Giulio, de Giulio Kitchen Design, took into consideration when he created his line of kitchen sinks for Kallista. Rather than incorporate a central drain, which “really kills the cabinet,” his design pushes the drain to one corner, relegating “the plumbing to one area in the back” and opening the rest of the sink base cabinet up for storage. BEST OF BOTH WORLDS As to the age-old question—one bowl or two?—basins with a low divider are finding their following, perhaps among consumers who can’t make up their minds. As Ann Rottinghaus, marketing communication director for Elkay, noted, although demand for single-bowl designs is growing, “many homeowners remain attached to the versatility that double-bowl sinks provide.” Some dividers are wide enough to serve as a landing place for cookware, while others are located so that one bowl is larger than the other, which is “great for washing oversized items,” added Emens. Sink aesthetics are also getting a helping hand. Although stainless remains king, granite in different colors, especially warm neutrals and black, is gaining in popularity, as it affords consumers another opportunity for personalization.The ever-popular drop-in models are boasting thinner edges and thus a sleeker appearance, and apron-front sinks are showing up in more contemporary looks in stainless steel. For easier installation 14 + K BB September 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 - September 2011

KBB - September 2011
Table of Contents
Online Contents
Online News
Editorial
Show Director’s Note
Trends
Products
Design
Meet the Judges
Top Projects
Merit Projects
Honorable Mentions
Modern Classic: An eclectic bath with timeless appeal
Ad Index
Favorites

KBB - September 2011