TRENDS REVEAL ENVIRONMENT, STYLE, FUNCTION & SPENDING
ARE IMPACTING KITCHEN AND BATH REMODELING IN 2009

2009 Kitchen/Bath Industry Show & Conference Offers
Products that Create Warm, Inviting Gathering Spaces

ATLANTA, GA (March 1, 2009) From high quality products without the high price tag,
to a growing assortment of eco-friendly materials to stylish product interiors, the hottest
kitchen and bath remodeling trends for 2009 provide personal touches for consumers that
create warm, inviting gathering spaces.

“People want their kitchen and baths to be a reflection of themselves,” said Christina
Trauthwein, Editor-in-Chief, K+BB Magazine. “They want them to look great while
remaining conscious of their environmental impact. Even in today’s economy, they are
willing to spend the money for something that is functional and fully customized to their
lifestyle.”

As an expert in the industry, Ms. Trauthwein offers insight into the top kitchen and bath
remodeling trends in 2009:

Growing Appreciation of Green Products
No category is growing faster than green products. Many companies never had ecofriendly
products before, but today these same companies are going as far as having new
products green certified. Green products and materials are costing less and are more
stylish. With a growing environmental consciousness among consumers, there is
particular attention being paid to products that save energy and conserve water.

Introduction of a Middle Ground -- Affordable Style
Previously, consumers only had the choice between very high-end, expensive products or
standard products that sacrificed style. Today we are seeing a middle ground. High-end
products have been scaled down and standard products have taken a stylish leap forward,
providing consumers with more options and more incentives to remodel.

Pop Colors are all the Rage
If consumers are down about the economy, you’d never know it walking into their
homes. We’re seeing more bright colors in everything from appliances to cabinets.
Adding color has become an easy and fun way to customize the space.
More Visual Blending Between Kitchen & Living Spaces
The distinction between living areas and kitchen spaces is becoming more blurred every
day. We’re seeing more furniture-style pieces, such armoires in the kitchen, and
concealed appliances to mask the cold stainless-steel ambiance of the room. This is
resulting in larger, open living spaces where family and friends can gather comfortably.
Automation/Technology Offers a Helping Hand
It seems that today, everyone is busy and stretched thin. It’s no surprise that products
with advanced technology that offer time savings and convenience is a hit this year.
Consumers can’t seem to get enough of appliances with sensors or ovens that practically
cook on their own.

Storage Accessories Getting the Attention They Deserve
With kitchen and bath space often limited, storage accessories are playing a greater role
in helping to maximize the space. With kitchens now a primary gathering spot, there is a
growing trend to make the inside of storage spaces look as good as the outside. It’s a
great way to put the finishing touches on a room.

“K/BIS will offer industry professionals a look at these trends and more, enabling them to
help consumers turn their house into a welcoming, cozy home,” said Brian Pagel, Vice
President, Kitchen and Bath Group, Nielsen Business Media.

Kitchen/Bath Industry Show & Conference (K/BIS), which hosts the largest collection of
kitchen and bath products, courses and conference sessions, promises to offer the latest in
product advancements, trends and insights to help attendees meet the needs of the
marketplace.

About the National Kitchen & Bath Association
The National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) is a non-profit trade association that
owns the Kitchen/Bath Industry Show & Conference (K/BIS®). With over 40,000
members, the NKBA has educated and led the kitchen and bath industry for more than 45
years. The mission of the NKBA is to enhance member success and excellence, promote
professionalism and ethical business practices, and provide leadership and direction for
the kitchen and bath industry worldwide. For more information, visit the NKBA Press
Room at NKBA.org/Press or call 800-THE-NKBA (843-6522).

About Kitchen and Bath Business (K+BB)
K+BB magazine, published by the Nielsen Company, reaches 50,000 interior designers,
architects, kitchen design specialists, custom builders and remodelers each month. This
monthly magazine blends exclusive features on cutting-edge business developments,
installations and industry personalities with solid market research. K+BB was the first
magazine to recognize and serve this industry, and continues to provide progressive and
insightful coverage of the industry's products, trends, and services, with a sophisticated
visual style befitting a design-oriented readership. For more information, please visit
www.kbbonline.com.