Kbis & ibs: design trends shaping homes in 2024

A whirlwind of innovation at kbis & ibs

As Kimberly Thomas, creator of NatureNest Collection, I just returned from the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS) and International Builders’ Show (IBS) – and wow! Over 117,000 attendees flocked to Orlando, breaking records, proving the design industry is buzzing with excitement. The energy was palpable, a supercharged design sprint showcasing innovation, craftsmanship, and smart living. It’s a vital proving ground for spotting emerging trends and forging connections with vendors.

Kohler’s “house party” sets the tone

Kohler kicked off the festivities with their “House Party,” a curated event featuring designers styling vignettes around their latest launches. At the heart of it all, Moniomi Design from Miami presented a state-of-the-art concept kitchen. This kitchen isn’t just about cooking; it’s envisioned as a layered, personal space designed for proper gatherings, reflecting a shift toward homes that prioritize social connection.

Patchwork stone: embracing irregularity

Artistic Tile’s Varo collection, born from a collaboration with designer Ali Budd, is making a statement. Inspired by the beauty of natural stone, Varo utilizes a series of panels that can be rotated and reconfigured, creating unique installations. This collection embraces irregularity and movement, moving away from rigid repetition and toward a more organic and bespoke feel. Expect to see this patchwork stone trend everywhere this year.

Social sinks: the command center of the kitchen

Kohler’s Synthos workstation kitchen sink is redefining the kitchen sink's role. Supersized and multifunctional, it’s transforming the work zone into a high-performance command center. Deep single bowls and three-tier ledges support cutting boards and prep tools, while dual faucets for prep and cleanup enhance efficiency. This embodies the trend of designing kitchens to support social interaction and conviviality.

Furniture-forward appliances: blurring the lines

Monogram is pioneering a major shift with their refrigeration concept. As kitchens evolve into hybrid spaces, appliances are becoming integrated into the architecture. Their Iconic Kitchen installation envisions refrigerators as heirloom pieces of cabinetry, seamlessly blending into living spaces – blurring the lines between appliance and furniture. Panel-ready columns and integrated ovens reinforce this narrative of appliances as enduring architectural elements.

Super tall islands: maximizing space and functionality

Kitchen islands are getting a major upgrade! Worthen Furniture specializes in custom iron and brass pieces, including exquisitely detailed islands. Their taller designs incorporate open shelving, increasing storage capacity while maintaining an open and sociable feel. The adjustable shelves offer incredible customization for both large and small spaces, showcasing a smart solution for modern kitchens.

All-in-one faucets: streamlining efficiency

Zip Water’s Arc Plus faucet combines multiple functions into a single, design-forward fixture. It offers chilled, sparkling, and boiling water, alongside filtration, all controlled with a touch. Available in brushed brass and brushed gunmetal finishes, it's a streamlined solution for clean, great-tasting water while removing up to 99% of PFAS and microplastics.

Color-drenched pulls: a monochromatic statement

The trend of color drenching is expanding beyond walls, reaching millwork. Modern Matter’s collaboration with Benjamin Moore showcases their 2026 Color of the Year, Silhouette, on cabinet hardware. Solid brass knobs, pulls, and backplates are powder-coated to match the inky hue, creating a seamless and sophisticated monochromatic look, proving that hardware can complete a design scheme.

The statement grill: outdoor living elevated

True Caliber’s Signature Rockwell grill is redefining outdoor cooking. Designed by David Rockwell, it's constructed from a single piece of folded metal, evoking the convivial pull of a campfire. The disappearing lid and bold Crimson finish transform the grill into a standalone statement piece – a bespoke sideboard rather than a simple backyard appliance. With 96 color combinations, it’s a serious investment in outdoor living.