Chicago: KBIS

Apr. 22-26, 2012. KBIS is the Kitchen and Bathroom Industry Show, and it was your invitation to “touch the future”.  Meaning what, exactly?  ”Each generation has different needs for self-expression, security and connection”, we heard. “Meeting their physical requirements and understanding the emotional benefits that drive and influence product purchases for each will help them to improve their lives and will expand your business”.  To prove it, the so-called UNcontained exhibit, anchoring the center of the KBIS show floor, was a journey through the lifestyle stories of five unique consumers. “You will recognize them”, we were told. “You will relate to them. The containers are not a room in their homes but rather a creative perspective on the attributes and values that have changed the rules of design. All the rules are broken”.  Except the one that water flows down-hill, of course…