2017 Dulux Colour Trends
Design will be inspired by an emphasis on tactility, deep blues and the evolution of ‘greiges’ according to the 2017 Dulux Colour Trends.
Presenting a...
EuroCucina report – Green
The stands at EuroCucina are always amazing and it’s great to see what the designers do with the space and how they make it...
When does the designer’s job end?
This was asked of me recently whilst at Interzum by a very inquisitive door manufacturer. As it turns out his son had just embarked...
Dulux Colour Trends Autumn 2016
Dulux has released its colour trends for Autumn 2016 which it has labelled "Back to the Future: Decadent autumn hues with a modern twist"
Interiors...
Kleenmaid collapse update
It's been a long time coming but hopefully there will be some relief for those consumers and staff who fell foul of the collapse of Kleenmaid...
Laminex tells us what happening in 2015
The 2015 Trends Forecast from Laminex Australia written by Neil Sookee embraces worldwide design and style trends and adds a hint of nearby flavour...
Interior Design Trends 2017
The arrival of the New Year brings with it fresh trends across all areas of our lives. To help Australians stay ahead of the...
Is “pro-forma” fair – and for whom?
As most of you would be aware there are certain appliance brands that operate on "pro-forma" basis. The idea is sound in theory -...
Tech Tips for the New Year
As we head back to the office, factory or design studio after a well-deserved break, it’s a great opportunity to check on your information...
Referrals – are they really appreciated?
Aside from regular marketing such as magazines, Facebook, newspapers, TV and the like, most businesses at some stage receive the potential for business through...
Jean Nouvel – A French architect who knows his way
Born in Fumel France in 1945, Jean Nouvel is one of those rare architects whose work straddles an entire industry. From a simple desk or lamp to...
One superlative too many
In the course of my work I get to write *a lot* about kitchens, bathrooms and interior spaces. I love it - I love...
“The coffee shop” – Commentary
Thought about changing the way you do things recently? In this, another excellent piece from KBB Review in the UK, kitchen designer Darren Morgan...
“Bevelled tile revival” – will it happen?
At Cersaie there was a rather unusual push from exhibitors on bevelled tiles. And most who were there believed that there is a revival...
What would you have done?
Here's a press release we got yesterday, and it begs the question "is this the best they could have done"?
Have a look.
"All the lofts...
Consumer trend: price does not define luxury
According to a recent survey, the majority of Germans, Americans and Chinese all agree on one thing: price is not the critical factor in...
Opinion: who has the best kitchen?
There are a lot of great rivalries in the world: State of Origin, Yankees vs Mets, The Ashes, Real Madrid vs Barcelona. And not...
Trend report: individualised kitchen design
Variety of colours and materials: the new trend for individualised kitchen design
The kitchen, long considered far more than simply a place to eat, has...
The Power of Positive Selling
I am constantly drawn to the British online publication "KBB Review". It is an excellent source of information, advice, commentary and opinion. If you...
It’s not the price. It’s the value
Having been on the other side of the fence for many years, I was recently in the new position of having to speak to...
Commentary……
Last month’s article about appliances (Referrals – are they really appreciated?, August 18) generated some heated debate, both on the blog and among industry...
Q&A with Andrew Stenos of Integriti Bathrooms
Andrew Stenos is one half of the brains behind Integriti Bathrooms, a premium bathroom renovations company in Sydney. Integriti Bathrooms is dedicated to good...
Kitchens an “afterthought”?
Our good friends at KBB Review in the UK decided that as there was little hope of enjoying any further rugby at the World...
Do good cooks make good kitchen designers?
In the course of my career in publishing I've been lucky enough to have interviewed a number of professional chefs, gourmet foodies and home...
Interview Christoph Behling
The genial designer, Christoph Behling, London-based by choice, was born in 1970 in Switzerland, grew up in Düsseldorf and went to art school in...
Sale Season – here we go again!
Driving around Sydney this week is as close to manageable as you will get - kids, plus teachers plus another few hundred thousand on...
Hansgrohe’s global showering habits
A new survey commissioned by Hansgrohe has revealed a host of interesting global showering habits. The survey was conducted by a market research company among...
The epitome of loyalty
There are many ways of rewarding customers for loyalty – on an ongoing basis. Frequent flyer programs (or in our industry’s case Frequent fryer!)...
“Honey – what’s that in the microwave?”
Most of us use the microwave on a daily basis (and a variety of technology) and almost as many of us use these trusted little...
Leaving design to designers
It was only last month that we relayed to you some words of wisdom from the "Miserable Old Gits Club" featuring Glasgow based bathroom...
Home Renovations to recover as New Building Slows
The latest edition of the HIA Renovations Roundup report has been released and it indicates Home Renovations to recover as New Building Slows.
Home renovations...
“Beware Cheap Imports”
Again, I'm indebted to Tim Wallace from KBB in the UK for this article posted on their site recently. Tim Leedman is MD of...
Commentary – Richard Moss has his say
There are times when you read some really awful editorial commentary - this isn't one of them. I haven't met Richard Moss (yet) but...
Bathroom trends according to “ISH”
This article (created by the organisers at ISH) is designed to get you to go to their show.....
"The latest luxury lifestyle trend in the...
Happy Australia Day
Wishing all our readers and followers a very happy Australia Day. We're taking a day off and will be back with our regular posts...
Furniture market report
Furniture market benefits from new interest in beautiful living
Our daily lives are marked by the desire to individualise and this is a driving force...
It’s very much time to have your say on Home Owners...
For all of you out there who abide by the rules - here's something you should spend some time reading. And, if you care...
Clinton tells architects – “you’ve got a lot to do”
We thought we'd bring you what our American design cousins really get their teeth into on a three day "let's make it a long...
Miserable Old Gits Club – episode 2!
Back in March we brought you some thoughts from Derek Miller (via KBB Review) in the UK who asked some serious questions about bathrooms....
Are Black and White bathrooms still alive?
It's not an original question I know - its just that it came up in conversation last week and I though we'd do a...
Is it really important to be "trendy"?
One topic I'm asked to speak about more than any other is trends - design trends, colour trends, interior trends etc... It's a topic...
“Art” in the bathroom – really?
"Start 2015 with a bit of humour" was the call!!
Bathrooms - serenity and solace behind that door. But for some the opportunity to create,...
Are renovations Australia’s next building boom?
"Are renovations Australia's next building boom"? Yes, according to the latest edition of the HIA Renovations Roundup report which predicts that home renovations will become
an...
The Kitchen of the Future – Silestone Institute
The Kitchen of the Future - and how it might look and function - is the focus of a new report produced by the...
Sustainability in the Kitchen and Bathroom
Kohler is a big company! So big they have a position in their organisation that is titled "Senior Channel Manager in Sustainability". Rob Zimmerman...
Wattyl colour trends forecast 2018
Wattyl's colour trends forecast for 2018 capture the collective mood for domestic environments that feel both safe and nurturing. In a fast-paced world of...
An interview with sieger design
sieger design has collaborated with Alape for close to 35 years, first with architect and design entrepreneur Dieter Sieger and now with his sons...
HIA Renovations Roundup report
The July 2017 edition of the Housing Industry Association’s Renovations Roundup report has just been published. The report provides the only regular in-depth review...
Opinion: personality test for customers?
In this opinion piece, Paul McAlary from Main Line Kitchen Design in the USA ponders whether we should be conducting a personality test for...
HIA Trades Report now available
The HIA Trades Report provides a quarterly review of the availability of skilled trades and any price pressures on trades operating in the residential...
Interior design trends at imm cologne 2018
imm cologne 2018 will feature a range of furniture trends with more than 1200 exhibitors from 50 countries showcasing current colours and forms as...
Trends in depth – Greenery/Nature
In a new addition for 2018 - TKBB will be presenting a series of stories that investigate a prevailing trend in depth. For our...
Eurocucina 2018 – new cooking spaces
Here's an insight into what we'll see at Eurocucina 2018 - new cooking spaces that are fluid orderly and professional. Eurocucina, the benchmark exhibition at...
59th Edition of the Salone del Mobile.Milano: Designing Beauty
Editor Melanie Gardener attended the official launch of the 59th Edition of the Salone del Mobile.Milano last week, with the theme of "Designing Beauty".
Maximising digital communication in the K&B industry
How can the K&B sector can maximise the effectiveness of its digital communications to grow business and strengthen relationships?
TKBB Summer Series – Best of….Kitchen innovation
Introducing the TKBB Summer Series - while we're on a break, we've compiled a compilation of Best of…… topics. Enjoy!
We're super lucky to be...
Guest Post: Wellness at Home
Today's guest post comes from Adrian Barr, Founder and Director of Geyser Steam & Sauna who will explore the idea of creating a wellness at home zone.
TKBB Summer Series – Sensational Basins
Introducing the TKBB Summer Series – Best of…… topics for you to enjoy during your summer break. Here’s a selection of the most sensational bathroom basins.
Top 10 Facebook Tips
In today’s online world, having a presence on social media is a must. Here are our Top 10 Tips for managing your Facebook business profile into the future.
Using architectural terms and references in your marketing
Today's guest post comes from KBDi who has done a deep dive into the use of the word "architectural" or "architect" within the building and design industry.
International Influences in High-End Kitchen Design
In the world of high-end kitchen design, Australia has emerged as a leader by blending international trends with its unique sensibilities.
Living Spaces that Heal
Adelaide-based interior designer Agatha Ozhylovski takes issue with the notion that interior design and neuroscience make strange bedfellows and designs and creates living spaces...
SaloneSatellite 2020
With the theme "Designing for our Future Selves", SaloneSatellite 2020 will be the 23rd edition of this amazing event, dedicated to talented young designers.
Guest post: 2021 Shower Trends
This week's guest post comes from Andy Grigor, Head of Design & Innovation at Methven and he shares his 2021 Shower Trends.
TKBB Summer Series – Best of…new showrooms
Introducing the TKBB Summer Series - while we're on a break, we've compiled a compilation of Best of…… topics. Enjoy!
2018 saw a fantastic array...
Designer Training Australia mid-year intake
Designer Training Australia (DTA) has its mid-year intake currently open for registration with the next courses commencing on 8th June or the 6th July.
TKBB Summer Series – Future of Kitchens
Introducing the TKBB Summer Series – Best of…… topics for you to enjoy during your summer break. Here’s a selection of ideas for innovation and corporate responsibility.
Ask our Expert – Business Development
Expert in business development, Ron Redman from Redman Training & Development shares his advice on how to harness opportunities and plan for the future.
Build a Social Media Strategy
Creating a social media strategy is an essential step in ensuring the success of your social media program.
Designing Kitchens for Accessibility and Aging in Place
Designing kitchens that are both stylish and accessible has become an essential skill for Australian designers.
Impact of technology on households and occupants
In this opinion piece, Katie Mills from Poshh.co.uk looks at the impact of technology on households and occupants and how this will impact the...
EuroCucina 2020
The 23rd edition of EuroCucina will be held in April with the theme of "sustainability, innovation and sensory perception: kitchens go circular".
Interview with Paulo Figueiredo from DelightFULL
Today's opinion piece is an interview with Paulo Figueiredo, head designer of the mid-century modern lighting brand, DelightFULL.
TKBB Summer Series – Best of…Interior Innovation
Introducing the TKBB Summer Series - while we're on a break, we've compiled a compilation of Best of…… topics. Enjoy!
Homes are about more than...
House of Social expansion plans
The Kitchen & Bathroom Blog editor Melanie Gardener joins forces with Social Media Guru Rebecca Foster as they become House of Social Pty Ltd from 1st July 2020.
TKKB Summer Series – Smart Bathrooms
Introducing the TKBB Summer Series – we’re on a very well-deserved break but have no fear…we’ve compiled a compilation of Best of…… topics for...
Tips for videos on Social Media
Top ten tips for videos on Social Media to help you up your engagement levels and stay on top of your social media game in this ever-changing landscape.
How will COVID-19 change kitchen and bathroom design
As Australia’s peak industry group for kitchen and bathroom designers, KBDi looks at how COVID is likely to change design in 2021 and beyond.
Integrating Smart Technology in Kitchen Design
In the world of high-end kitchen design, integrating smart technology is no longer a futuristic concept but a present-day reality.
5 Awesome Marketing Tips
Kate Mills from Vidalux shares her 5 Awesome Marketing Tips that will help both established and new businesses make the most of the available...
Guest post: How to deal with difficult clients
This month's guest post comes from Dean Williams from Perth-Fection Plumbing. Dean shares his tips on how to deal with difficult clients as a renovator.
Interview: Carolina Costa from Circu Magical Furniture
Today's post comes from an interview with Carolina Costa from Circu Magical Furniture, a Portugese brand established in 2015.
TKBB Summer Series – Best of… Lighting
Introducing the TKBB Summer Series - while we're on a break, we've compiled a compilation of Best of…… topics. Enjoy!
Lighting and lighting design has...
Kitchen & Bathroom Designers wanted – Melbourne based
Let’s Talk Kitchens & Interiors is looking for two interior designers who specialise in kitchen and bathroom design to join the team at its Canterbury, Melbourne showroom.
TKBB Summer Series – Rangehoods & Ventilation
Introducing the TKBB Summer Series – we’re on a very well-deserved break but have no fear…we’ve compiled a compilation of Best of…… topics for...
Managing downtime
What to do in your business and managing downtime when it’s quiet is something we’ve all had to deal with, and it seems this year has been particularly slow for many.
How will our industry change post-COVID?
In a post-COVID world, how is our industry likely to change and how will businesses approach this "new normal"?
Proposed ACFA & KBDi Merger
ACFA and KBDi have announced a proposed strategic merger of the two organisations to create a powerful alliance to better serve the industry.
5 Lighting Mistakes Interior Designers Tend to Make
In this week's guest post renovation-loving interior decorator Catleya Ara James takes a look at the five most common lighting mistakes (and how to fix...
Take on an apprentice in 2020
If you are looking to take your business to the next level, why not consider taking on an apprentice in 2020?
Let’s talk Brand Equity
In a crowded market, one of your most effective assets is your brand equity - the worth of your brand or the value it has in the minds of your consumers.
TKBB Summer Series – Best of…Building Products
Introducing the TKBB Summer Series - while we're on a break, we've compiled a compilation of Best of…… topics. Enjoy!
Recognising that our world is...
Writing a Brand Story and why it’s so important
Brand storytelling can be one of the most valuable weapons in your marketing arsenal so why don’t more companies utilise their stories more effectively?
TKBB Summer Series – Lighting
Introducing the TKBB Summer Series – we’re on a very well-deserved break but have no fear…we’ve compiled a compilation of Best of…… topics for...
2020 interior trend predictions by Original Style
Original Style has teamed up with London-based interior design duo 2LG Studio to bring us its interior trend predictions for 2020.
How to write a killer one-page marketing plan
For our new year's resolution this year, we decided to share our tips for writing a rock star one-page marketing plan.
The Nover Story
Nover is one of Australia’s largest family-owned and operated businesses supplying the cabinet making and joinery industries.
New KBDi insurance Master Policy
Available now for all KBDi members - the new KBDi insurance Master Policy is a tailored, industry-specific insurance facility for interior designers, including those...
Can influencer marketing work in the K&B industry?
With paid advertising saturating the market, we thought we’d explore the idea of Influencer Marketing and whether it could be an effective tool.
What I really wish people knew about social media
There's no doubt digital marketing - and social media in particular - is the choice of marketers across all industries.