Top Design Trends from KBIS in Orlando

Every year, the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS) sets the tone for what is next in residential design. From bold material statements to subtle shifts in color and texture, KBIS in Orlando once again offered a clear view into where kitchens, baths and home design overall are headed. 

As Senior Designer for Formica Corporation, Gerri Chmiel walked the show floor with a practiced eye, she looked beyond the buzz to identify the ideas with staying power. Which colors are evolving? Which materials or finishes are gaining traction? And how are shifting tastes and lifestyles influencing the way we design and live? 

Following are five trends identified at this year’s show: 

1. Warm Woods Return in Richer Tones; Cabinetry Embraces a Furniture Aesthetic 

Natural wood cabinetry continues its resurgence, now shifting from light Scandinavian looks to deeper, midtone and dark browns. Grain is celebrated rather than concealed, giving spaces a more premium and enduring feel. 

Related to highlighting the woods and woodgrains, cabinets also have moved more into the realm of furniture rather than simply as built-ins. Displays featured pieces lifted on legs, detailed panels, integrated metal accents and glass-front elements that resemble bespoke furniture. 

Formica^® Portfolio of Surfacing Solutions on trend example: 2025 Patterns and Woodgrains especially 9040 Fumed Maple, 9402 Brun Refined Hickory or the more exotic 9043 Coco Tamarind 

2. Nature-Inspired Color Takes the Lead 

Greens and blues dominated cabinetry, appliances, tile and fixtures. Sage, eucalyptus and olive tones are becoming grayer and more neutral, while blues range from airy pastels to deep navy. These hues are moving from accent status to full-room statements in a nod to biophilic trends. 

Formica^® Portfolio of Surfacing Solutions on trend example: FENIX^® Innovative Materials J0794 Verde Kitami or J0754 Blu Fes. 

3. Statement Stone Evolves 

High-contrast veining and bold scale remain strong, especially in quartzite looks, loved for their marble stone look.  Bookmatched slab displays amplified the drama. At the same time, creamy whites with beige and brown veining offered softer options for those who sought a more subdued style. Taj Mahal quartzite remains a popular choice for kitchen and bath.  

Formica^® Portfolio of Surfacing Solutions on trend example: 180fx^® Laminate | Formica Group and 9922 Taj Mahal. 

4. Texture You Can See and Feel 

Leathered, flamed and honed finishes replaced high polish surfaces, emphasizing matte surfaces with tactile appeal. Exaggerated texture, along with reeded and fluted details, added dimension while helping disguise fingerprints and smudges. 

Formica^® Portfolio of Surfacing Solutions on trend example: InDepth Surfacing™ | Formica Group , Tuet Deep Surface | Arpa Industriale and other texture options including Monolith. 

5. Styles Shift to Softer, Organic Shapes 

Rounded islands, arched cabinetry and radius corners softened the hard lines of the kitchen. Pill-shaped forms and curved fixtures reflect a broader move toward organic design and wellness-driven spaces.

Our Takeaway 

Together, these trends point to homes that feel more personal, grounded and expressive. Materials are warmer. Colors are deeper – and more prevalent. Surfaces are more tactile and forms are  more fluid.
For Formica Corporation, the takeaway is clear: homeowners are seeking authenticity, comfort and individuality, an evolution that is about thoughtful design choices that balance performance with personality.