Where Innovation Meets Inspiration: My 2025 Vegas KBIS Adventure

Aloha, design lovers! It’s Diane here, checking in from my recent trip to the Las Vegas KBIS (Kitchen & Bath Industry Show). There’s nothing quite like feeling the buzz of excitement on the show floor—seeing the newest products, mingling with fellow designers, and meeting vendors face-to-face. Every time I visit, I’m reminded why I love what I do: there’s always something fresh, creative, and downright inspiring waiting to be discovered.

A World of Color and Matte Finishes

I’ve noticed that color was front and center this year—especially in appliances. KitchenAid introduced new hues that practically popped off the showroom floor, while Smeg has me swooning with their latest matte finishes. I’ve always believed kitchens should be as vibrant as the meals we share in them, and these companies understand that better than anyone. 

GE Monogram, as usual, did not disappoint—there were lines just to see their Designer Showroom and gawk at their outstanding displays. Integrated appliances, matte cooktops, and hardware you can customize or intermix—yes, please!

Sustainability & Ingenuity

Another standout moment was seeing JennAir’s collaboration with Nature Squared, which transforms sustainable materials—think eggshells, mother of pearl, and other upcycled elements—into luxury finishes for appliance fronts and interiors. It’s exciting to watch the industry continue evolving toward earth-centric, responsible design choices. 

And speaking of innovative ideas, have you heard of Free Power? It’s an integrated countertop charging system—no cords, no clutter, and you can charge multiple devices at once. I’m already imagining how sleek my clients’ kitchen islands, office desks, and even bathroom counters will look with these seamlessly installed.

Oh, and the Potty Sniffer?

Yes, you read that right. Jem Smart’s odorless toilet features a built-in ventilation system that truly redefines the phrase “fresh bathroom design!” It might sound funny at first, but let’s face it—functional design is everything, especially when it comes to making our homes more comfortable and guest-friendly. This is just one more example of the out-of-the-box thinking I love discovering at KBIS.

Surfaces and Induction Cooking

One of my favorites is the evolution of quartz materials. Many companies showcased thinner, more versatile sheets that can be used for countertops, cabinet fronts, drawer faces, shower walls—you name it. It’s a clean, grout-less look that lends itself beautifully to modern, minimalist spaces. And speaking of minimalism, hidden induction cooktops under porcelain surfaces also made a splash this year. Imagine a sleek, uninterrupted countertop that seamlessly transitions from work surface to cooking zone. It’s perfection.

Celebrating and Looking Ahead

Beyond the products, I cherish the connections I make on these trips. Meeting my vendors face-to-face and shaking hands with the people behind the innovations is priceless. This year, I also found myself drawn to a brand called TRUE, which traditionally catered to commercial kitchens and restaurants—but now they’re bringing that top-level performance into our homes. I love seeing more professional-grade appliances making their way into everyday living; it’s all about giving clients the opportunity to cook, entertain, and live their best life in their own space.

And of course, it wasn’t all work and no play. My sister’s birthday happened to coincide with KBIS, so we took time out to celebrate. After all, design is about creating joy in our homes and in our lives—I believe in bringing that sense of celebration into everything we do.

Until next time, mahalo for joining me on this little tour of KBIS 2025. If you’re feeling inspired (I know I am!), let’s connect and chat about how these new ideas could work in your next project. I’m here to help you create a home that feels just as inviting, uplifting, and soulful as the islands themselves.