LAS VEGAS — Opening day at the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show and ideas are already cooking. A number of cabinet companies are displaying cabinetry with features targeted to multi-generational family homes, including those with aging populations. Flexibility in design is key for this, says Mark Ayers, vice president at KraftMaid. And with the trend toward smaller homes, storage and accessories are also of critical importance, he adds.

Patrick Zschering, brand manager for Merillat, also commented on the multi-generational trend, multiple cooks in the kitchen and the need for “lots of access to storage solutions.” To meet this need, on display at the Merillat booth is a Cornerstone full extension drawer pullout, to be launched January 2012, along with new side pantry units.

Other new products for the aging and multi-generational target markets include Drawer Box Specialties’ electronically controlled waste bin, which can be operated by toe kick or finger touch for ease of use, says Doug Carmichael, vice president of sales.

Also on this theme, at KBIS, Blum is hosting demonstrations of its Age Explorer suit, which allows users to simulate in a kitchen setting the effect of decreasing mobility due to the natural aging process or other physical limitations.


Testing the Market
On a separate note, a number of companies are also using KBIS to gauge market reaction on products before an actual launch. Cardell, for example, is “experimenting” with an Old World Finish that combines rub through, painting and glazing. “We’re here to see if it’s hot,” says Vickie Carlton, director of training. “We’ll take the comments back and make a decision.”

Rev-A-Shelf is also polling attendees in gauging the popularity of its electronic pantry series, says Shari McPeek, marketing manager. “So far, the response has been very good,” she says.

Held at the Las Vegas Convention Center, KBIS runs April 26-28. The show is owned by the National Kitchen & Bath Assn.

Editor’s note: Read more KBIS  kitchen and bath industry coverage as it is posted.