2011 Design Trends

Here are the top 10 trends for 2011 as published by the National Kitchen and Bath Association. You’ll see classy, time-tested designs with some inspiring elements.

1. Commitment to Color:

The mango and carrot colors in this kitchen set off the modern design elements and allow the cabinetry and appliances to pop.

Homes where the kitchen opens into the family room and dining area need to balance the wall colors through out the the entire space.

2. Tactile Textures:

Notice the rug in this bathroom? Designers inset glass mosaic tiles into the limestone floor to create the look of a rug. I first saw this at a convention and I really did think I was about to walk on a carpet.

3. Glass Attributes:

This kitchen uses glass throughout to give the room a more cohesive look. Even the hood has glass elements.

4. Free Standing Tubs:

Though most bathrooms don't have the room for a free standing tub, you must admit it catches your eye. It can be seen from the bedroom through french doors that lead into the bathroom.

5. Espresso colored cabinetry:

Darker cabinetry is becoming more popular again. As long as you use enough lighting they won't make a room look dark.

6. Walk-In Pantries:

I really wish this pantry was part of my kitchen. If you don't have an actual room set aside for storage, your cabinets can become your pantry with many storage solutions created by Hafele. Base cabinets with deep drawers can hold dishes, serving platters, pot lids or small appliances.

7. Detailed Ceilings:

The rough hewn ceiling gives the appearance of age even though it was recently created. There are lots of trey ceiling styles that are often used in a master bedroom or a dining room to give the room a real "punch."

8. Natural Elements:


The beauty of nature abounds in a kitchen; especially in your choice of counter top material. Granite is the most popular counter top material with quartz products such as CaesarStone or SileStone a close second. If you decide to go with granite we make sure that you take the time to go to our fabricator and pick out the exact slab you want to use.

9. Tiered Proportions:

Using varying heights in your cabinetry or with a raised "breakfast bar" your kitchen develops more personality. A long, straight row of wall cabinets is boring. A raised "breakfast bar" doesn't just look nice, it can hide a sink full of dishes.

10. Inlaid Flooring:

For this bathroom a travertine tile was used with a wood-like tile. Tiles can be porcelain, ceramic, glass, metal real stone. Today shower walls often have an accent tile made of glass or metal. Bathroom floors can be laid down in a myriad of patterns and composition.

What elements could you incorporate into your home?