Members of the New Jersey Chapter of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) explored the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show 2025 (KBIS) through the lens of both aesthetics and practicality.
A bathroom vanity with built-in wireless charging. A custom Lexus GX equipped with a smart oven. An induction range that cooks quietly and adapts to any pot size. These were just a few of the bold, boundary-pushing designs that wowed attendees and designers at the show, where luxury and innovation came together in unexpected ways. This year’s showcase also highlighted functional, sustainable and beautifully crafted solutions designed to elevate everyday living.
Bathroom remodels were cited as a common job by 65% of remodelers, followed by kitchen remodels (61%), making them a top priority for homeowners looking to upgrade, according to a recent study by NAHB. At KBIS 2025, interior designers saw firsthand how brands are reimagining these essential spaces with fresh ideas and unexpected details.
Here are a few standout trends that caught their attention:
Bringing the Indoors Out
Some of the biggest brands in kitchen appliances are taking their innovations outdoors.
“Outdoor kitchen design has evolved far beyond stainless steel grills and basic BBQs,” said Sharon L. Sherman, ASID, CID, Thyme & Place Design.
One standout was True Residential’s full-service outdoor kitchen system. Unlike traditional grills with bulky lids that block your view, this model features a hidden lid that seamlessly vanishes behind the grill, allowing for uninterrupted conversation and a more enjoyable cooking experience.
Outdoor cabinetry is also seeing exciting advancements, noted Sandy Cabelis, ASID Allied, Cabelis Interior Design.
“Companies like NatureKast presented weatherproof cabinets that look, feel and perform like high-end indoor kitchen cabinetry,” she said. “This opens up so many possibilities for clients.”
Chic Faucets with Architectural Flair
“Updating faucets and fixtures is one of the easiest ways to elevate a home’s design, and KBIS had some fantastic options,” said Ali Altieri, ASID Allied, Haus Remodeling.
One collection that stood out to her was Brizo’s Frank Lloyd Wright line. With its sleek lines and function-first approach, it perfectly embodies Wright’s signature aesthetic.
“The clean lines, variety of metal finishes, and teak wood trim make these pieces distinctive,” she said. “The look is sophisticated and a touch masculine—in a refined way.”
A Spectrum of Colors
This year’s show embraced a bold color palette, ranging from moody earth tones to strikingly vivid hues. Sherman was particularly drawn to GE Café’s innovative kitchen collection featuring cabinets, tiles and wall covering in beautiful, unexpected colors such as cinnamon.
“The show really leaned into rich, vibrant colors and personalized details, giving homeowners more ways to express their unique style,” said Sherman.
Embracing Organic Curves
“Soft, organic shapes really took center stage this year,” said Cabelis. “We saw ovals, wavelike textures and fluid, nature-inspired forms in everything from cabinetry to countertops to dining room tables.”
One example was a table in the Maximo wood products booth.
Cabinetry Beyond the Kitchen
Custom cabinetry is no longer just for kitchens and bathrooms.
“My favorite cabinet maker, DeWils Fine Cabinetry, showcased some stunning and unexpected vignettes,” said Altieri. “They’re reimagining cabinetry for spaces like drawing rooms, built-in bars, music rooms and more.”
DeWils brought its signature craftsmanship beyond the kitchen, showcasing a stunning music room. Rich, textured finishes like distressed hickory add warmth and character, proving that custom cabinetry can create a harmonious space for both design and sound.
From seamlessly integrated technology to bold color palettes, KBIS 2025 showcased the exciting possibilities in kitchen and bath design. With expert guidance, homeowners have more options than ever to create environments that are both beautiful and built for modern living.
