What’s trending in NZ’s kitchen and bathroom realms

09 Jun 2022

Natural woods and matte finishes are in, according to New Zealand’s National Kitchen and Bathroom Association. In their yearly survey, NKBA have dived into what’s popular in the design world for homeowners redesigning spaces across the country. You can get on board with the trending looks with Resene paints and products below. 

With the construction industry booming, renovations and new builds are a common sight across New Zealand – 62% of NKBA members commented that they are busier than they were pre-Covid 19. Of those members, 72% say they are most in demand for their kitchen design and manufacturing expertise – particularly for renovations.

Opt for a natural wood look and matte cabinetry and you’ll be bang on trend for 2022, according to NKBA. This kitchen’s aesthetic is based on a Scandi-modern farmhouse, so interior designer Jenny Saggers of Collaborate opted for Resene Half Washed Green for the cabinets, Resene Half Black White for the walls and Resene Quarter Black White for the ceiling.

In the kitchen, expect to see natural woods taking centre stage. Designers predicted timber to be the most popular cabinetry colour of 2022, pushing white out of the top spot. The most popular timber colours were oak and walnut, however all timber finishes were considered on the up.  Timber can be finished in a range of Resene Colorwood stains and wash finishes – everything from natural timber tones to whitewash, greywash and beachwashed hues.

For the first time, porcelain is also predicted to be a benchtop of choice. The ultra-durable material has been slowly rising in popularity over the years, and is now the preferred material for many designers. In terms of finish for the cabinetry, 34% of respondents in the survey said matte will be the finish of choice, however textured is on the rise.

“As more people work from home, they have discovered the importance of living and working in a space that reflects who they are and what they enjoy. I also think lockdowns have helped people to find a love of cooking and this has increased an interest in transforming kitchen spaces so they can enjoy cooking and entertaining at home,” says designer Kevana Naidoo, of Kitchen Inspirations in Auckland.

For bathroom design trends, NKBA members say we can expect to see standalone baths, two person showers and creative lighting dominating the trends.

For more info on kitchen and bathroom trends visit: www.nkba.org.nz

Published: 09 Jun 2022