February 8, 2024

In our latest From the Tap podcast, we welcomed Pam McNally, SVP of marketing and digital for the NKBA, and we talked in depth about 2024 kitchen and bath design trends to look out for – as well as some we’d like to say goodbye to.

Tech & Accessibility

We started out talking tech in today’s spa-like baths, including remotely controlled steam showers, heated floors and lighting that can create moods. Aside from smart technology, other innovations are taking hold, including charging stations in countertops and hidden outlets.

As far as accessibility, this has been a movement for several years, but what is coming next? McNally says homeowners want things like grab bars and shower seating to be more attractive and streamlined. This type of consideration in new builds and renovations will be of the utmost importance since so many people are choosing to live in place in their homes.

Color & Lighting

When it comes to 2024 kitchen and bath design trends regarding color, McNally shared her thoughts on where we stand with the white kitchen. She also says wood and organic tones are gaining in popularity, and texture can be used to warm up a space and add a graphic pop.

Lighting has become such a big deal in the last few years, and that will not change. Designers are becoming more educated on putting together the perfect layered illumination plan for their clients. Look for more info on NKBA’s upcoming lighting summit in June.

All Al Fresco

Outdoor kitchens have been popular for a long time, but they evolved during the pandemic, and they have evolved since then. All homeowners want to include some sort of outdoor space, despite space and budget restraints, and the consensus seems to be that they want these spaces to be a reflection of the inside of the home. Look for more info on this in KBB’s Closeup on Outdoor Living in our March/April issue.

Pets & Sustainability

And we can’t forget our beloved pets! Many designers today create storage options for things like pet food, feeding dishes and toys. Incorporating showers for dog washing will also increase in popularity, as well as primary baths with lower showerheads.

McNally says the consensus on sustainability is that homeowners are more accepting of this movement than have been in the past. Price will always be a factor, but if they have product options that last longer, they will not be contributing as often to landfills. Food storage plays a part in being more sustainable as well.

In terms of what’s losing traction in the kitchen and bath market? McNally says formal dining rooms are out, and there is a shift away from traditional design in favor of clean, European lines.

To learn more about upcoming K&B trends, including multi-use islands, improved storage, personalized solutions for all budgets and the ongoing debate over gas ranges, listen to the podcast on Spotify, Google Podcasts, Apple Podcasts, Pandora and other outlets.