
This kitchen, designed by Tia Moras, illustrates the concept of tiered proportions.
The winning projects of the 2011 National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) Design Competition were announced last month.
The award winners typically reflect common design themes. This year, many of the projects used natural elements in design, strong colors, a variety of textures, and detailed ceilings to create a well-designed space. Chocolate and espresso were popular hues for cabinetry. Also, there seems to be a trend toward tiered proportions through overlapping heights in island surfaces, countertops, and cabinets (See photo to the right).
Read on for more photos of some of the design winners!
![]() Prominent colors, such as the carrot orange in this award-winning kitchen designed by Jennifer Gilmer, are becoming more popular. |
![]() Espresso and chocolate are the leading colors in cabinetry, and they are typically paired with natural finishes. |
![]() Panels of Mica art glass were incorporated into the backsplash, the window in the door, and the stainless steel hood of this kitchen, designed by Kirsti Wolfe. |
![]() This kitchen illustrates the "detailed ceilings" trend. Designed by Jodi Hook, it is a detailed rough-hewn barn beam ceiling with cable-strung lighting. |





