If you're planning a renovation or designing a new space, you can elevate your project from ordinary to extraordinary by keeping up with trends while adding unique touches. Here are some of the most exciting materials making waves in modern kitchen and bathroom design!
Recycled Glass Countertops
Sustainability is your best friend! Post-consumer or post-industrial glass pieces are embedded in cement or resin, transforming them into recycled glass countertops. These surfaces offer a unique, speckled look that adds depth and character to your living spaces. They're non-porous, stain-resistant, and available in a variety of colors, perfect for environmentally conscious homeowners who don't want to compromise on style.
Porcelain Slabs (Large-Format Tiles)
Porcelain has long been a favorite due to its durability. However, recent advancements have led to the emergence of ultra-thin, large-format porcelain slabs that mimic natural stone, wood, and even metal. These slabs are resistant to scratches, moisture, and UV rays, yet they can last a long time due to their durability.
Engineered Quartz with Enhanced Textures
While quartz countertops are nothing new, manufacturers are now offering textured surfaces (think leather, matte, and even 3D patterns) that add tactile appeal. Some brands are incorporating recycled materials into their quartz compositions, offering a more sustainable option without sacrificing durability.
Bio-Based Composites
Imagine countertops made from paper, bamboo fibers, or agricultural waste. Bio-composites are emerging as an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional materials. These surfaces are lightweight, customizable, and often biodegradable or recyclable at the end of their lifespan.
Antimicrobial Surfaces
Hygiene is a top priority in home design, especially in kitchens and bathrooms! Copper-infused countertops, tiles with silver-ion technology, and even photocatalytic coatings (which break down bacteria when exposed to light) are emerging as smart solutions for cleaner, healthier spaces.
Liquid Metal Surfaces
For those who appreciate a bold, industrial look, liquid metal coatings can be applied to sinks, countertops, and cabinets. These surfaces create a seamless, molten metal effect that is both striking and extremely durable. For those who appreciate an industrial look, liquid metal coatings can be applied to sinks, countertops, and cabinets.
Translucent Concrete
Yes, concrete can now be translucent! Embedded with optical fibers, this material allows light to pass through while maintaining structural integrity. It's an unexpected yet striking choice for backsplashes, bathroom partitions, and even illuminated countertops.
Why Are These Materials Important?
Innovative materials not only address aesthetic concerns but also address environmental challenges. Whether reducing environmental impact, improving hygiene, or increasing durability, these advancements allow designers to create spaces that are as functional as they are beautiful.
At Riva Ankara Interior Architecture, we bring you the latest materials to create kitchens and bathrooms that stand the test of time! If you're ready to explore the possibilities of your next project, let's talk design! Contact us to learn more.