KBB Trends Report 2023

KBB Trends Report 2023: A round-up of the most cutting-edge design ideas we’re expecting to see a lot more of this coming year

As the two most hardworking rooms in our homes, getting the most out of kitchen and bathroom designs is a high priority for designers and consumers alike. Which is why keeping on top of the current trends can not only help ensure our homes continue to look stylish, but will also make them as functional as possible, thanks to the latest technology. Designs in kitchens and bathrooms often overlap, and this year is no different. With impact on the environment and the rising cost of living at the forefront of everyone’s minds, we’re seeing a shift in how we design, buy and style both of these spaces. Here, we’ve rounded up our top five trends that will prove popular for kitchens and bathrooms in 2023…

Sustainable style

Ways in which we can make kitchens and bathrooms more sustainable, are certainly a hot topic at the moment. From furniture makers to appliance manufacturers, brands of all sizes are finding new and innovative ways to keep carbon footprints down and to meet sustainability targets. While previously eco-friendly additions have come with a higher price tag, we see sustainability credentials becoming a staple requirement across the board in kitchen and bathroom design for 2023 and beyond. The likes of The Used Kitchen Company have been pioneers in this movement by recycling kitchens, and there are many new products being made in a sustainable way, too. Alusplash, for example, offers a range of kitchen splashback panels made from recycled aluminium. It’s an easy to clean and fire resistant, stylish alternative to glass, acrylic and tiles.

Back to black

The thought of black kitchens and bathrooms used to only conjure up stark and contemporary schemes, but now dark and moody tones are popping up in a variety of different settings. Matt-black brassware and sanitaryware was a rising trend last year and is now a readily available finish in both spaces, but in 2023 we anticipate darker tones carrying through to other design elements. “Black and dark-wood cabinetry is hugely popular and is no longer reserved for sleek, handleless designs,” says Richard Hibbert, owner of KSL Sudbury and chairman of UK Home Specialists Association the KBSA. “Shades such as charcoal can work just as well on a more traditional Shaker-style front, as the design details help to add a little more depth and interest. Layering black on black in this way will create a modern, sophisticated look,” he adds.

Energy efficiency

With household bills rising dramatically, it's never been more important to introduce water and energy efficient technology into our homes. “Our industry can support homeowners to reduce their energy and water consumption. We need to communicate that clearly, and continue to improve the efficiency of bathroom products,” says Tom Reynolds, CEO of the Bathroom Manufacturers Association (BMA). “Sustainability is a core focus for us and we are, amongst other initiatives, encouraging retailers and manufacturers to use the Unified Water Label to help consumers make informed choices.”

As we see more products that use less water, such as multifunctional hot taps and flow-limiting showerheads, become available at affordable price points in 2023, positive progress will continue to be made in this area. 

Mix-and-match metals

From classic chrome to luxurious-looking brass, different metallic finishes have come and gone in popularity over the last few years. In 2023, however, consumers should embrace a mix of their favourites. No need to stick to just copper or gold, a mix-and-match approach in a kitchen or bathroom can provide a stylish look. For the kitchen, this could mean appliances and taps are in a different finish to cabinet handles, helping to make either, a standout feature. Similarly in the bathroom, brassware in the shower could look different to the vanity, creating different zones. There’s no hard and fast rule to this creative style. 

Breath of fresh air

Changes in the way we live often bring about the need for new, innovative products and designs and a clear example of this is the shift towards open-plan living that has happened over the past few years. With multifunctional, dynamic layouts that encompass both cooking and living now preferred in most homes, hobs with integrated ventilation are quickly moving to the top of many consumer’s kitchen wishlists. A design spearheaded by BORA, integrated cooktop extractor systems can significantly help to control steam, fumes and odours from cooking. Brands such as Siemens, Fisher & Paykel, Gaggenau and Falmec have developed powerful and innovative designs in this area too, so expect to see more options to become available this year.