Decorex SA comes to the Durban Exhibition Centre from March 18 to 22 and among the stands will be “Simplicity in Design” Kitchen Trends-sponsored by Franke.
Commenting on the 2017 kitchen trends that visitors can expect to see, Franke SA’s national sales manager, Clinton Soutter, explained: “Kitchen design continues to maximise space, which is often limited, and we’re seeing the open-plan model retaining popularity.
“The kitchen continues to be a place where people socialise and not just perform a task of preparing food.
“Designers constantly have to ensure every aspect of the design is user-friendly and functional to the individual homeowners’ needs and lifestyle.”
He emphasised that, although the theme encourages simplicity, it is in no way “simplistic”.
“There are much cleverer designs coming through with space being maximised. Every centimetre and item within the kitchen must have purpose.
“Visitors to Decorex SA will be interested in seeing the innovative adaptions to products, driven by consumer desires. Where bigger sinks are popular, people are also very water conscious so we are seeing a trend towards wider sinks which have less depth.
“The kitchen mixer continues to evolve with technology (such as finger-touch controls) playing a big role, along with sleeker lines.”
Stephanie Forbes, national manager of KSA, a kitchen industry and consumer association that regulates the trade, said there were interesting new trends filtering down from Europe which would be evident at Decorex SA.
“The high-gloss look that has been so popular over the last few years is not disappearing but is being moderated,” she said.
“We will see this look combined with wood grains, glass, metal and the new addition of ultra-matt finishes.”
She said the move towards ultra matt was very contemporary, especially in darker colours, however neutral tones were also still popular but with key, highlight colours.
“Combining materials also remains prevalent, particularly when it comes to surfacing materials both in base material and thickness. Clean lines are still vital with integrated and built-in appliances making a strong comeback after the free-standing cooker played such a feature role. Also, look out for handle-less doors which are a solid kitchen trend.”
While showcasing the latest in all kitchen appliances and products, as well as offering expert insights into 2017’s international kitchen trends, Decorex SA will welcome visitors into a world of high-end design and interior trends and ideas, easily adapted to create any individual’s #livingdream