The National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) has released the top 10 kitchen and bath design trends to watch for in 2013. The NKBA’s annual design trends survey witnessed participation from over 300 member-designers from the United States and Canada, who reported the materials, product types, and design styles they specified over the final three months of 2012.

“As members of the NKBA, the kitchen and bath industry’s foremost professional association, our designers demonstrate comprehensive knowledge in kitchen and bath design,” says 2013 NKBA President John Morgan. “They excel in evaluating homeowners’ specific needs and creating designs that inspire. It will be interesting to discover the trends that emerge from the rich experience of these creative, talented individuals.”

Among the overall trends identified for this year, the most significant that surfaced for both kitchens and baths are as follows:

—  Gray color schemes in both kitchens and baths have witnessed a dramatic escalation since 2010, particularly over the past year. Used currently in 55% of kitchens and 56% of bathrooms, shades of gray are growing in appeal, creating chic, sophisticated spaces that many consumers desire.

—  Continuing an important trend from last year, transitional-style kitchens and baths have clearly surpassed traditional styles, a longstanding favorite until 2012.

—  While the use of quartz finishes was in slight decline last year, it has surfaced as a clear trendsetter this year, coming a close second to perennial favorite granite.

—  No growth in consumer outlays: Homeowners were spending more on their kitchen and bath remodels a year ago — however, the latest report reveals a slightly less robust situation. The total cost of the average kitchen and of the average bath design in 2012 was $51,050 and $18,575, respectively, but the most recent figures have dipped to $47,308 in kitchens, while staying steady at $18,538 in bathrooms.

Although some trends from the past year continue to grow significantly into 2013, the last three months of 2012 have also laid the groundwork for new ones to thrive. Some of the other top trending design components include white painted cabinetry, glass backsplashes, LED lighting, touch-activated faucets and satin-nickel finishes in kitchens; and ceramic/porcelain tiles and undermount sinks in bathrooms.

Download the full 2013 NKBA Kitchen and Bath Style Report here: https://www.nkba.org/PressRelease/2013_NKBA_Kitchen_and_Bath_Style_Report.pdf