The National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) has released the top 10 kitchen and bath design trends to watch for in 2013, based on input from more than 300 member-designers in the United States and Canada.

Among the overall trends identified for this year, gray color schemes in both kitchens and baths have witnessed a dramatic escalation since 2010, particularly over the past year. Used currently in 55% of kitchens and 56% of bathrooms, shades of gray are growing in appeal, creating chic, sophisticated spaces that many consumers desire. Separately continuing an important trend from last year, transitional-style kitchens and baths have clearly surpassed traditional styles, a longstanding favorite until 2012. Also, while the use of quartz finishes was in slight decline last year, it has surfaced as a clear trendsetter this year, coming a close second to perennial favorite granite.

No growth in consumer outlays: While the total cost of the average bathroom remained steady in 2013, the average kitchen cost dipped slightly to $47,308, from $51,050 in 2012.

Follow the link to view the press release about this announcement as well as access the complete NKBA Kitchen and Bath Style Report, or email us.