WiFi Bathtubs and Other Stuff of Dreams

The walls of the "Fountainhead VibrAcoustic" tub vibrate gently with the music. (Kohler)

Krengel was ambivalent about the near-ubiquitous granite countertops, noting how the hard surface is tough on glassware and that it tends to produce echoes. Concrete has similar drawbacks, but it's popular because designers can use it in all sorts of colors and shapes.

Quartz-composite countertops are among his favorites because of their easy care and big color selection. Wood is also popular, even though it damages easily and needs to be oiled regularly.

Wood is everywhere, it seems. It has become standard for floors in upscale kitchens. "Wood floors are forever floors," Krengel said.

Wood cabinets with a furniture look are still in, but the trend is toward less embellishment. Don't get fancy with moldings in the toe-kick area where cabinet meets floor, he warned. Elaborate woodwork can create pockets that trap toes, causing people to trip.

The fashion is trending darker for cabinet finishes, with maple still going strong and cherry more popular than ever. Krengel said using a second color of wood as an accent is hot.

Wood finishes that are painted and glazed, which are among the most expensive choices, remain popular, but he questioned the investment: "When that goes out of style, that's going to go out of style with a bang." I hope it's a long time from now; they're gorgeous.

Cabinets that are wider than they are tall are becoming popular. These horizontally oriented boxes can be stacked as a room divider or mounted on the wall, with a surface on top for display.

Fireplaces are increasingly popular in kitchens, but Krengel warned that they should have raised hearths so your investment is not hidden by islands or counters.

Some older trends still have room to run.

Chrome faucets are making a comeback, he said, because it's the least-expensive, longest-lasting, easiest-for-design choice. (If you have ever tried to match nickel finishes from different brands, you will agree heartily on the last point.)

Stainless steel appliances are still safe to buy, despite years of rumbling that they're about to become the new avocado. "Stainless steel is not going away," he said.

White cabinets still work with current trends, but he likes them best in a slightly off-white shade, which mixes well with other materials. And beadboard is still popular for walls and islands.

E-mail Elizabeth Razzi atrazzie@washpost.com.