Extended periods of time in our homes during the pandemic triggered many homeowners to lean into fresh kitchen and bath designs. The result is multi-functional spaces that promote peace of mind, foster good health and offer more control over indoor environments.

Thoughtful design and careful selections of materials answered a need for the comfort of families working, going to school, relaxing and retreating at home. Manufacturers have developed innovative technology aligned with today’s goals for simpler and less stressful lifestyles while keeping an eye on in-demand aesthetics. Homeowners have new and exciting choices when updating kitchens and baths.

Warm, creamy colors that complement gold-toned plumbing fixtures and decorative hardware are on trend with kitchen designers. Bold, darker colors become accents for the island or a specific built-in, rather than entire stretches of cabinets.

he modern kitchen offers a feeling of uninterrupted serenity on the outside and the convenience of accessible, versatile, compact storage hidden from view. Even large appliances like refrigerators, stovetops and range hoods can be disguised by cabinet panels. And everything from expansive pantries to coffee and espresso stations gets tucked within custom cabinetry, freeing countertops for meal prep and service as well as decorative display. Charging stations are out of sight, too, but within easy reach, keeping everything from tools to phones to laptops at the ready.

As for the all-important cooking zone, think multiple cooking methods: sous-vide (cooking vacuum-sealed bags of food in a water bath), induction, gas, steam and convection. Pots and pans are heated directly on induction cooktops rather than on gas or electrically heated elements. Sous-vide and induction offer precise heat control.

Low maintenance and ease of cleaning are the two priorities, in order, for kitchen appliances. Convection ovens that roast, bake, slow cook and dehydrate are practical and popular with cooks of all skill levels. Convection steam options keep foods moist. For larger families and those who like to entertain, second refrigerators, beverage storage units and even stand alone freezers are prominent on homeowners’ lists of must-haves.

Paintings, objets d’art and lighting as focal points reflect how kitchens have changed from purely functional, workaday places to more versatile spaces for modern living and entertaining. Wellness concepts in kitchens and baths have been around for a while, but the emphasis has grown with the pandemic. Sensing how both rooms have become sanctuaries, manufacturers and designers have responded to client desire for indulgence and efficiencies, form and function — all driving this year’s high demand for remodeling.

Top-selling bath enhancements include saunas (especially infrared), steam showers, wet rooms, multi-sensory showerheads and horizontal and electronic thermostatic temperature control valves. Related products, such as folding seats, decorative grab bars and railings, personal wall-mounted and hand-held bidet shower fixtures, misting sprays, chromotherapy lighting, aromatherapy and barrier-free drains offer homeowners enhanced accessibility and are selling well.

Heated floors and towel racks promote health and wellness with thermal comfort. Heat also cuts back germs and mildew build-up by reducing moisture, designers say. But more than practicality, bathroom comfort is key.

Free-standing soaking tubs have been in demand for a while, but now whirlpool and air spa options for indoor (and outdoor) use are being seen. Ozone-treated water, micro bubbles that treat various skin conditions, are popular, as are deep-soaking and walk-in tubs and recirculated temperature control.

The Kitchen Source offers design and remodeling services and will partner with builders, interior designers, architects or general contractors, to suit the client’s needs, whether they need a full turn-key job or consulting. Their award-winning design team employs a meticulous process that ensures a top-quality finished product.

Clients hand-select Wood-Mode custom cabinets, Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances, Kohler fixtures and more, all time-tested, trustworthy brands. Their master craftsmen install your selections with the greatest care. The Kitchen Source is a one-stop source for today’s kitchen and bath design, with perfect finishes ranging from hand-crafted, made-to-order cabinets to professional grade appliances, premium grade surface materials, outstanding fixtures, lighting and hardware.

The team at The Water Closet works hand-in-hand with clients to oversee their bath remodeling project, directing contractors, managing budgets and handling the general minutia associated with the construction process or they can assist as needed when clients want to oversee the construction themselves. They help with selection of tile, plumbing fixtures, flooring, hardware, cabinetry and countertops, windows and doors and audio/visual outlay.

Park + Eighth offers opulent mid-century home furnishings to enhance the kitchen and bath. Their specialties are unique home furnishings, original artworks and whimsical accessories. Choose from leather, velvet, chrome, lacquer, Lucite and more, all curated by owner Christina Phillips. From lighting options to iconic vintage barware to vintage Murano, Park + Eighth carries bespoke pieces for bath and kitchen.