As predictions go, the National Kitchen & Bath Association’s (NKBA) latest initiative focusing on how living impacts design hit a home run by showcasing what major lifestyle themes would play out in the design of kitchens as it relates to consumers design needs. They came away with four major design themes that speak to how we live today.
The Kitchen of the Year 2021 winners represent extremely well the major design themes that are truly made for living today by incorporating connected living, simplified living, living in place and healthy living.
Connected Living Driven by technology that aligns the kitchen with the rest of the house, making it more centralized.
Simplified Living Designing kitchens that plan for less clutter, easy to clean and well organized.
Living in Place Incorporating features and layouts that make it easier to navigate in such a way that allows seniors to remain in their homes as long as possible.
Healthy Living These kitchens promote healthier food preparation, a closer connection with nature that incorporate larger windows that maximize views to outdoor, smart temperature controls, ample food storage, increased refrigerator space for fresh produce, meats, diary and large areas for cutting/prepping fresh foods.
Every kitchen featured is a winner as each met the needs and lifestyle requirements of it owners while incorporating design elements for contemporary living.
To view the entire gallery of contest winners please visit Kitchen of the Year Winners inspired design!
Photographed by: Emily Followill, Mali Azima, Jeff Herr