KBIS – The Kitchen and Bath Industry show is the world’s largest international trade show event that is dedicated to kitchen and bath products. This annual event attracts thousands of exhibitors, buyers, designers and the media who are interested in the latest and the best products, designs, trends and education that the industry has to offer.

The 2010 KBIS which was held at the McCormack Place Convention Centre in Chicago, April 15 – 17 did not disappoint. It featured head-turning products of all kinds.

Modern design was evident throughout; clean lines, from warm, and dark tones to creams and white. Art deco featured in ornamental products – carved components and decorative hardware.

Notting Hill Decorative Hardware

Kohler, always on top of its game with cutting-edge products displayed its Sok® overflowing bath for two with effervescence. The bath allows two bathers to completely immerse themselves in the water as thousands of champagne-like bubbles emerge from eleven ports, gently caressing for a soothing bathing experience. This model features a continuous flow of water over the sides of the basin – reminiscent of an eternity swimming pool.

Kohler’s Sok® overflowing bath for two with effervescence.

Another addition to its bathroom line is the Kallos Glass Lavatory -the latest addition to the Kohler Nature’s Chemistry and Artist Editions collections. Kallos reflects light and colour in alluring patterns. This 14″ diameter sink is ideal for a powder room or guest bathroom.

Kallos Glass Lavatory from Kohler.

STAINLESS STEEL MOSIC KITCHEN SINK

There were several striking sinks from Linkasink; like this handmade stainless steel mosaic sink for kitchens. The Magic Square Sink below is beautifully crafted out of black granite or travertine. A tray of mosaics, that is removable for cleaning, rests above the pan, hiding the drain. The waste water runs off the face of the mosaic tray to the drain below. Truly a unique creation.

Magic Square Sink from Linkasink

Maxx’s Bath Inc, award-winning bath products manufacturer, introduced its new Purfect and Mechanix Series of shower doors, one of which features a sliding door on rollers that has the smoothest opening and closing operation to date.

MAAX Collection introduced its first noise-free and friction-free dual ball-bearing shower door.

Without a doubt, sustainable materials are an important feature in today’s kitchen and bath products. This was evidenced by the range of Green products on display. From toilets that require less than a gallon of water per flush, to vent fans that meet new green building standards, plenty of eco-friendly products were available for anyone planning a green remodel.

Kitchen cabinets featuring corner drawers in lieu of lazy susan shelves, new faucets from many of the noted companies such as Kohler, Danze, Hansgrohe and Webert with features ranging from multi-function spouts to convenient articulating and spraying functions are just a few of the overwhelming number of kitchen and bath products on display.

Kohler Karbon® Deck-Mount Kitchen Faucet pivots easily into any position and stays there for hands-free operation.

Eight products were selected for their functionality, quality/durability, flexibility, aesthetics/style and innovation. I will just highlight two of these:

The Best of Bath Awards went to TOTO USA’s Aimes eco-powered shower lighting system. This system is designed using water to supply its own energy.

TOTO USA Aimes eco-powered shower lighting system

Best of show went to Liebherr’s for its integrated wine storage cabinet.

KBIS 2010 – Best of Show Award – _

Liebherr’s HWS 1800 integrated wine storage cabinet

–Marjorie Allen

interiorsbydesign@cwjamaica.com