When it comes to kitchen and bath design, some of the most inspiring new ideas arise from the global world of manufacturing. These companies are in a position to clearly see emerging trends, consumer demands and successful product lines. They understand the role of statement pieces in livening up an existing kitchen and bath. 

Sometimes adding a single key element — something dramatic and daring — is all that’s needed to elevate a tired design space. Instead of ripping out an entire kitchen, try adding a new workstation sink in a dramatic color, a fabulous arched faucet or glittering crystal hardware. Rather than replacing a whole bathroom, why not install a textured shower tray or freestanding tub with geometric patterns? 

For these statement pieces to be a smart investment, three things must be true: they should be of good quality, hold timeless appeal and express the individual’s style. Let’s take a closer look at some of the newest and most innovative design ideas launched by top manufacturers from around the world.

Accessibility for All

Ready for a change, America? Shower trays are here to stay, moving from an option to a design necessity! Their low-profile design makes the shower easily accessible for all age groups and abilities, while their sleek, modern style is a welcome aesthetic addition. 

Acquabella offers an exceptional line of engineered stone shower trays to suit any space with their made-to-measure feature, allowing for easy installation. The company released its new Largo Collection, aptly named using the Spanish translation for long. It breaks from tradition by placing the drain along the tray’s longest slide to enhance drainage efficiency and add a subtle slope. The collection features nonslip surfaces for a safer shower environment. 

The manufacturer offers two beautiful textures for its shower trays: Beton mimics the look of cement, while Slate looks similar to natural stone. The shower trays are made using Acquabella’s signature Akron compound to create a product that is exceptionally durable and features antibacterial properties for easy cleaning.

Industrial Edge

Industrial style continues to be one of the hottest design trends for today’s kitchens. Along with its trademark mix of textures, metals and raw surfaces, this eclectic style draws inspiration from plumbing fixtures. 

Gessi’s new Officine Collection is a great option as it replicates the look of vintage pipework with factory-inspired detailing. Clean lines and a high,  arched spout lend a contemporary feel that is both elegant and edgy. Gessi brings its meticulous Italian design and craftsmanship to the engineering of this pull-down faucet, which features a dual-function sprayer and a full 360-degree spout swivel. 

Each faucet is equipped with ceramic disc cartridges crafted from premium stainless steel, then treated with proprietary plating to ensure lasting beauty. 

Bathing Goddess

The new Libra Aurora from BainUltra is a true showstopper of a freestanding tub. Drawing its name from Greek and Roman mythology, the Aurora is a sculptural design inspired by the morning dawn. Its symmetrical silhouette and flowing lines promote a sense of serenity and a balanced lifestyle focused on wellness. 

Gently sloped interior walls provide indulgent lounging space for two bathers, while the tub’s defined upper rim creates a pretty halo effect. BainUltra offers the Aurora as a luxurious soaker or as part of its signature Thermomasseur line with hydrotherapy massage and Geysair hot air system. 

Aurora is available with a few tempting add-on options, such as universal armrests for enhanced comfort and stability, Illuzio chromatherapy with mesmerizing colored lights for a true sensory experience, and the WarmTouchShell system with strategically placed heating zones inside the tub’s shell. The Aurora is crafted from pure acrylic and finished by hand to a beautiful glossy white. 

For even greater design impact, choose a dramatic black and white finish on the outer shell or BainUltra’s opulent UltraVelour matte finish.

Dark Drama 

Dark kitchen sinks make a dramatic style statement that is certain to capture attention. Ruvati unveiled a chic new matte black option for its epiStage Series of workstation sinks. This beautiful hue is bold yet refined and makes an intriguing choice for a contemporary kitchen or a modern farmhouse look. 

All epiStage sinks are made in Italy and composed of 80 percent crushed natural granite to create the look and feel of real stone. The sinks are colored all the way through for a rich, durable finish that will never fade or stain. 

The series is brilliantly designed to maximize efficiency in the kitchen. The workstation concept frees up counter space by using integrated ledges to slide included accessories into place as needed, including a solid composite cutting board and a patented folding drying rack. Also included is a patent-pending silicone bottom grid that blends perfectly with the sink while protecting the bottom of the basin.

All Polished Up

Crystals make a lovely addition to the home, and Grandeur Hardware offers a dazzling trio of crystal knobs that are certain to catch the light and capture attention. 

The Brilliant Crystal Knob sparkles from every angle due to a myriad of polished facets. The Black Baguette Crystal Knob is dark and mysterious with an elegant emerald cut, while the Carré Crystal Knob is pure sophistication with its smooth face and stepped edges. 

All crystal knobs may be paired with any of the brand’s extensive selection of plates and rosettes for a truly customized look. Grandeur Hardware makes each piece using solid forged brass, followed by intensive polishing and buffing before applying a protective finish coat for a flawless look. 

Gothic Graphite

Step outside of the ordinary with an exciting new finish option for the kitchen faucet from HamatUSA. Its graphite finish is darkly elegant and gleams with subtle hints of warm and cool undertones. It is inspired by the color of the graphite mineral and brings a warm earthy richness to the kitchen. 

This finish is a great option for those hoping for a high-end luxury look but still wanting the performance of everyday durability. HamatUSA offers the new finish on its Serenity, Imagine and Gal bar and kitchen faucets. All are constructed of premium solid brass and are carefully finished using the company’s advanced PVD technologies and electrostatic powder coating for enhanced durability. 

The faucets include hybrid stainless-steel and nylon hoses, as well as its QuickConnect system for easy installation.

Pattern Play

Fans of geometric design are in love with the new Cosmopolitan Collection from MTI Baths. The launch of this brand-new line met with rave reviews for its chic style and easy sophistication. The designs are beautiful and versatile, with looks to complement traditional, modern and transitional decors. 

The collection features 14 freestanding tubs, eight sinks and an array of shower bases in varying textures and colors. MTI has set a new design standard with this collection, pairing artistry and science to create intricately patterned effects that dazzle the eye. 

Each element is made of cast stone, crafted from MTI’s proprietary mineral composite blend. After careful by-hand finishing touches, the final result is a beautifully glossy white finish that is amazingly durable and easy to maintain. 

These extraordinary products are only a sampling of the design innovation our industry is generating around the world. With so many options to choose from, it’s up to consumers everywhere to discover the ideas that best reflect their taste, fit within their budgets and complement their home decor and lifestyle.