By Sharon Sherman
I just returned from the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS) in Las Vegas, and I want to share two key takeaways with you. First, the idea that “looking back is looking forward” perfectly represents the essence of KBIS 2025. As we embrace the future of home design, we are rediscovering our design roots, drawing from timeless elements that continue to shape how we create functional and beautiful spaces.
The second highlight of my experience was the incredible opportunity to participate in a panel discussion on the Next Stage, alongside industry professionals Sarah Robertson of Studio Dearborn and Laura Freeman of Merits Design Group, led by our insightful moderator Danny Seo of Room Magazine. We explored the concept of nutritional kitchens and dining spaces and their profound impact on wellness and well-being in the home. The important thing to remember is that technology plays a major role in creating any space designed for well-being. Lighting, lighting controls, shading and sound are integral to the success of the design.
The Evolution of Wellness and Well-Being in Design
Wellness has become a major buzzword in the industry. While trends come and go, I believe wellness and well-being are more than just fads – they represent a fundamental shift in how we design our homes. The kitchen, consistently the most popular room in the home to remodel, is a major design influencer. Bathrooms follow closely behind.
Technology plays a major role in designing for well-being. Intelligent lighting, climate control, window treatments, scent/aromatherapy and immersive soundscapes are integral to creating a holistic wellness-focused space. The collaboration between interior designers and technology experts is elevating home design and livability to new levels.
How Technology is Impacting Kitchen, Bath and Home Design
A well-designed kitchen isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating an environment that reduces stress and fosters connection. A thoughtfully planned space allows us to enjoy quality time with family and friends, nourishing both our bodies and our souls. Technology is leading the evolution of the kitchen as a center for health and well-being.
The conversation around wellness extends beyond just healthy eating – it’s also about the tools and technologies we use in our kitchens. For example, induction cooking is gaining popularity due to its ability to eliminate harmful gas emissions. Similarly, steam cooking is emerging as a healthier alternative to microwaving, offering a gentler way to prepare food without compromising nutritional value. With the addition of built-in cooking guides, anyone can elevate their culinary experience.
The Role of Technology in Reducing Waste and Enhancing Efficiency
Food waste is a significant issue in the United States, much of it resulting from improper storage and spoilage. The future of kitchen design is tackling this challenge head-on. Advances in refrigeration technology are helping extend the lifespan of fresh produce, ensuring that families can enjoy nutrient-rich meals while minimizing waste.
Beyond food preservation, other technological advancements are transforming our homes into healthier spaces. Features such as air purification systems, advanced lighting that promotes well-being, and water filtration at the point of use are becoming integral to modern kitchen design. These innovations go beyond convenience – they actively contribute to our overall health and well-being.
Sustainability: More Than Just a Trend
Sustainability is another key theme in the wellness and well-being movement, but it’s not just about bringing nature indoors with a few plants or botanical wallpaper. It’s about a mindset shift – one where we, as designers, recognize our role in shaping homes that are not only beautiful but also environmentally responsible. The materials we choose, the appliances we recommend, and the way we integrate energy-efficient solutions all contribute to a healthier planet and, ultimately, healthier living spaces. Energy management is part of that story as well.
Creating a Sanctuary at Home
Water goes hand-in-hand with well-being and design. Water has become one of the most important design features in today’s home. Shower experiences are now a focal point in home design, extending beyond just the primary bath. Shower controls are moving toward touchscreen and app-based options. A cold plunge shower, premiered at KBIS, gradually reduces the temperature of the water, which has been shown to reduce muscle soreness, improve circulation and boost mood. Chromotherapy in showers and tubs further enhances the spa-like atmosphere in bathrooms.
At the end of the day, a home is a sanctuary. When our clients step through their front doors, they seek refuge from the stresses of the outside world. Our role as designers goes far beyond aesthetics. We are curating spaces that support physical, mental and emotional well-being.
Creating Wellness and Well-Being Through Design Collaboration
The best smart homes seamlessly merge technology and design. When system integrators and interior designers collaborate effectively, respecting each other’s expertise, they create stress-free, wellness-focused living environments. Through design, immersive soundscapes become more than just the music playing through the speakers, and light becomes more than just a lamp on a table or a ceiling fixture. Light and sound play pivotal roles in the home, particularly in the kitchen and bath. Safety, comfort and relaxation are all enhanced through intentional lighting and sound design.
Looking Ahead: A Balanced Future of Tradition and Innovation
As we look toward 2025, we find ourselves at the intersection of timeless design and groundbreaking technology. The beauty of the future lies in our ability to blend heritage with innovation, tradition with transformation. Thoughtful design isn’t just about aesthetics – it’s about the way we live, the experiences we create, and the well-being we nurture in our homes.
By embracing both the lessons of the past and the advancements of the future, we can craft spaces that not only inspire but also enhance the quality of everyday life. And that, at its core, is what great design is all about.
Sharon Sherman is the Founder of Thyme and Place Design, headquartered in Wyckoff, New Jersey.
