Each year, we take a short break from our day-to-day work to head to the International Builders’ Show (IBS) and the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS) – two of the biggest events in home building and design. This year, Las Vegas hosted over 120,000 attendees, and the show floor stretched more than a million square feet. It was the largest turnout in nearly 20 years.
Our Director of Interior Design, Cari Hill, went with team members Erika, Helena, Fallon, and Valerie to see the latest developments in design and construction. They came back with plenty of inspiration and insights, including the key takeaways below!
Color Is Making a Comeback
For a long time, soft neutrals have been the go-to in home design. But this year, color showed up in a big way. We’ve always believed that color has the power to bring life and personality into a space, and it was fun to see how other creatives were experimenting with it this year.
Lighting That Does More
Lighting was also being used in thoughtful and unique ways to elevate it beyond its functionality. We saw lights built into cabinets, drawers, and floating shelves, plus standout fixtures and soft under-cabinet glows. Small but impactful changes like these go a long way in making spaces feel more finished, and in many cases, more inviting.
Materials That Stand Out
Red marble was one of the more unexpected trends; it showed up in bathtubs, tile, and even hardware details like knobs and handles. Cari noted this one as a personal surprise, particularly the bold use of Rosso Levanto marble in items like conical cabinet knobs from Emtek.
We also noticed a lot of textured surfaces, oversized hardware, and finishes like brushed metals and leathered stone. These choices were eye-catching, but didn’t feel flashy for the sake of it. Rather, they felt considered, like materials meant to be touched and lived with.
Wellness Features Are Here to Stay
Another element that may feel luxurious, but is showing its staying power nonetheless, is wellness design. Features made to enhance physical and mental health weren’t just a side note this year; they were everywhere. We saw cold plunge tubs, steam rooms, and even towel-warming drawers right out of your favorite spa. Clear importance was given to creating spaces that help their residents stay healthy and happy, and when you put it like that, why would there ever not be?
Some standouts:
- Kohler’s Ice Bath, designed with Remedy Place, brings this holistic health treatment into the home.
- Monogram’s bathroom warming drawer, filled with damp warm towels, brought a little luxury to everyday routines.
Smart Tech That Blends In: FreePower
One of the most impressive – but still commonsensically practical – innovations we saw was from FreePower, a wireless charging system built right into a countertop. No cords, no visible gear; users just place their phone anywhere and it starts charging. It’s one of those features that’s hard to imagine before you see it, but then once you do, you don’t want to live without it.
Lewis Builders has always been a firm that embraces life-enhancing technology. Back at the office, we’ve already started working to become certified in FreePower integration, and are excited to start offering this to clients in upcoming projects!
Back to Work, Recharged
Of course, IBS and KBIS aren’t just for trying out cool new gadgets. They’re a chance to connect with other professionals, stay inspired, and ultimately, find meaningful ways to improve the homes we build.
As a design + build team, we have the advantage of moving quickly from inspiration to implementation. When something catches our attention, we’re able to explore it as a team and find ways to bring that innovation to our clients.
Technology has always been key in both our creation process and the houses that we build, whether it’s VR rendering software, eco-friendly energy systems, accessibility tech, or an at-home ice bath. Ultimately, we see every home as an opportunity to improve daily life. That’s what our philosophy, “Change Your Space. Change Your Life.®” is all about.
If something here sparks ideas for your own space, we’d love to connect. Our team is at your service, from the brainstorming stage to handing over the keys.