February 12, 2021
KBIS 2021: Natural, Clean, and Lightly Hued Surfaces are Trending
Surfacing for walls, backsplashes, and floors is increasingly designed to imitate materials viewed as germ-resistant such as stone and wood.
Manufacturers report increased demand for surfaces that appear at a glance to be hygienic. For instance, “laboratory white is taking off,” says Elizabeth Margles, vice president of marketing in North America for Caesarstone, which is rolling out its quartz in three new light hues. “It’s the notion that what you see, you can clean. It’s not clinical, just clean.” Quickly scanning other new products, Metropolis found additional examples of the trend, including some set to debut during the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS). Here’s a sampling.
The new Whitelight Collection of quartz surfaces from Caesarstone taps into the demand for white, nonporous countertops in three patterns: Adamina, which mimics a warm sandstone, and Arabetto and Aterra Blanca, which both feature veining that imitates marble. All will be available in March.
Known for its laminates, Formica has rolled out a nonporous solid surfacing collection called Everform. Among its available patterns is a wipeable terrazzo-like look that is water- and fire-resistant, and costs less than stone or stone composites.
What appears to be vein-cut onyx is actually a collection of glazed porcelain tile that imitates the look of natural stone from Walker Zanger. Barcelona is available in two sizes and eight finishes, and can be ordered in book-matched patterns.
The Dekton Craftizen Collection, available later this year, has been named a Best of KBIS finalist. The line of large-format sintered stone features finishes that mimic Venetian stucco.
Those looking to create a soothing environment will appreciate Wilsonart’s Wellness collection, which incorporates soothing elements like wood grain, soft colors, and abstract, landscape-based patterns. Grounded Hinoki, a dark motif based on Japanese cypress, offers a spa-like finish for health-care, hospitality, retail, or residential environments.
You may also enjoy “KBIS 2021: Manufacturers and Designers Collaborate on Bright Ideas for Kitchens and Bathrooms “
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