2017’s design trends are translated

Known in the design world as a source for inspiration, creativity and design, the Kitchen and Bath Show at the International Builders' Show draws designers from across the country in droves – all to get a glimpse of the latest and greatest trends for cutting-edge kitchen and bathrooms. Kathy Cioffi, vice president of design at Neal Communities, attended this year’s show, held in Orlando. Kathy intends to incorporate what she sees and hears, evaluating the latest design, market trends and technology, and translating those into the creation of new floor plans, elevations and home designs for Neal Communities. She is also responsible for the architectural themes and exterior color palettes at Neal Communities and coordinates all showcase model homes and merchandising.

With over 30 years of experience in the home construction industry, Kathy brings a wealth of knowledge of exterior and interior design to Neal Communities, where she has been a team member for over 18 years. She manages the design gallery and its talented team of designers. We sat down with her to get her take on the design trends for 2017.

1. Why is it important for designers to attend the Kitchen and Bath Show? We get to see the up-and-coming trends in design that affect the offerings in our gallery. It is important to stay ahead of trends in order to have the latest and most popular looks and products that our homebuyers want.

2. What new trends did you see for 2017? Modern industrial and urban farmhouse is the latest look in design. It features clean lines with a hint of rustic. Think of a modern white kitchen with a rustic wood counter top. Brushed brass is also back, especially in hardware, such as plumbing fixtures and lighting. It’s very hot and trending right now. Quartz counter tops are also the way to go, with many new designs that look like marble and granite with little fuss for maintenance.

3. What were the coolest or biggest trends in bath or design? Moen has a new electronic pad for the shower. You can set the temperature, water usage, etc. – all from your smartphone. Kohler now offers 14 finishes for their faucets, with new vintage nickel, brushed gold, titanium and French gold.

4. How do you foresee Neal Signature Homes using the new 2017 Pantone Color of the Year? Greenery, a vibrant green, is a versatile, trans-seasonal shade that lends itself to many different color combinations. It can be paired with neutrals, bright colors and pastels.

5. Were there any other examples of trends like the new color that we will see incorporated throughout the year? Neutrals are trending right now with lots of textures. Deep crimson, blush pinks are saturating the runway and finding their way into home design.

6. What did you see as far as technology updates? Echo/Alexa has partnered with GE Appliance to integrate the technology with their appliances. You can now speak to Alexa to check your cookies in the oven or have her turn on your dishwasher. The new function will work on 70 different models of appliances. You can use voice commands with your appliances without every touching them.

7. Was there anything else new as far as color trends? Natural and clean is the new look, with just pops of color here and there. The real trend is using texture and natural elements from nature in the home. The modern industrial look is very popular, especially with Millennials who are the up-and-coming buyers in today’s housing market. They are tired of stainless-steel appliances. Using matte black or slate appliances instead of stainless steel is the latest.

8. What was your biggest inspiration from the show? Luxurious natural materials like marble, onyx, copper and wood are accented in metallic finishes for a fresh take on product design.