I can't believe KBIS2017 has come and gone! This year's event was particularly inspiring as I had the opportunity to see it through the eyes of the Modenus Blog Tour.
This means that I was able to get really in depth knowledge, in particular, from the generous and wide variety of sponsors including KBIS, Thermador, DXV, Wilsonart, Wellborn Cabinets, Metrie and Mohawk Flooring. However I have SO much more to share including my favorites, trends that cannot be missed and directions you need to know about the future of kitchen and bath design.
Our first day at KBIS2017 began in style to say the least. Think champagne & cupcakes! This event was held right on the show floor at Signature Kitchen Suites.
Awash in Luxury- Star-Sapphire Dishwasher
Next up I learned there was a lot to know about the new products at Thermador who celebrated their 100th anniversary in 2016. Innovation and luxury are at the forefront of everything they do. I was most impressed with the size options from grand to compact and all the user-friendly features. Just check out this newly enhanced Star-Sapphire dishwasher. The top tray is not a new feature but options to customize it to any configuration definitely is. This beauty also can wash up to 18 wine glasses, no problem and has a quick cycle that will do the deed with Star Speed in 20 minutes! This is all illuminated by their signature Star Glow blue light, . Not gonna lie, this dishwasher is an investment at $2,299 MSRP but it's worth the splurge if you love to entertain.
Chill with Culinary Panache
Thermador calls their refrigerators Culinary Preservation Centers which sound serious but , truthfully, there are a lot of seriously "chill" options (sorry :). With Thermador Columns you choose what size refrigerator you want starting as small as 23 1/2" to go with as much freezer as you need. They can be installed together or separate which gives you more options to customize your kitchen layout. My favorite thing about them, introduced this year at KBIS2017, is the Open Door Assist function which gives the option for a handle-less installation, just push to open. I also really like the removable door bins that hang on stainless steel rails. What a great idea! New this year is also a wine column with three temperature zones. Rosé is finally getting a little respect.
No handle appliances and cabinets were a big deal at KBIS2017 with new and improved technologies for "touch latch" functionality.
Size Matters at Thermador
Big isn't always better. Just because you're downsizing doesn't mean you don't have room for an amazing range if that is your heart's desire. You can get a 30" five burner gas range from Thermador but if size is more your speed they make the 60" ProGrand range full of full sized functionality. Enough about gas. I know that some of you are hardcore about gas cooking, nothing wrong with that, but induction is the most efficient way to cook and it's the future. You can quote me on that!
The Future of Cooking
New this year is the 36" Freedom Induction cooktop and what's cool about it is you can move your pots around as you cook with HeatShift. This function automatically controls the power level of the cooktop as a pot is moved from one space to another across a cooking zone. MoveMode enables cooks to easily move pots around the surface by automatically transferring cooking settings to a new location. Like magic!
Last But Not Least, the Latté
If after all of that you feel like you need a cup of coffee I don't blame you. You guessed it, Thermador has a newly enhanced option for that too. Their Built-In Fully Automatic Coffee Machine can make you ten different beverages including latte macchiato, espresso and cappuccino with warm milk froth. The appliance comes with a container for whole beans and a stainless steel milk container that can be stored in the refrigerator. Yes please!
Believe it or not there's even more at Thermador. For further info visit their website
Next up: What's new at Wellborn and Wilsonart