(ARA) – Does your kitchen or bathroom look like it’s stuck in a time warp? Then it might be time to update the most-used rooms in your home. For inspiration, look no further than the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA), which recently shared its top 2010 kitchen and bath trends.

To compile the findings and determine the latest kitchen and bath trends, the organization surveyed those members who designed a kitchen or bathroom during the last quarter of 2009. According to NKBA, the top 10 trends for 2010 are:

1. Shaker style kitchen design
2. Maple and alder cabinetry finishes
3. Quartz countertops
4. Pull-down/pull-out kitchen faucets
5. Polished chrome finishes
6. Under-counter refrigerator drawers
7. Dishwasher drawers for small loads
8. Marble vanity tops
9. Integrated sink tops, drop-in sinks, vessel sinks and pedestal sinks
10. Bronze and stainless steel finishes

In the kitchen
Making a big statement throughout the kitchen in 2010 is the addition of functional drawer appliances. One such example, which has been specified by nearly a third of NKBA’s kitchen designers, is modern refrigeration technology. Turning convenience into a luxury, under-counter refrigerated drawers feature adjustable horizontal and vertical dividers to keep frequently used items close at hand. Perfect for the ultimate entertainer, refrigerated drawers are quite roomy, typically tall enough to store a 2-liter bottle and wide enough to hold items such as serving trays and pizza boxes.

If you’re tired of running the dishwasher when it’s only half-full, consider installing a dishwasher drawer. Because it’s independently operated, you can wash small loads as economically as large ones. Plus, the extra flexibility to run cycles simultaneously with your traditional dishwasher makes clean-up quicker and easier, explaining why nearly a third of designers are incorporating this new trend into kitchens, as well.

Another popular element to include in the kitchen in 2010 is a pull-down or pull-out faucet. Utilized by 85 percent of kitchen designers, it’s an easy way to make a design statement at the kitchen sink while increasing functionality. The new Arbor pull-down kitchen faucet from Moen seamlessly brings simple sophistication to the kitchen with its transitional styling that complements virtually any decor. It’s available in a chrome finish, which is another 2010 trend to look for in appliances, accents and hardware throughout the entire kitchen. For more information about the Arbor pull-down kitchen faucet from Moen, visit moen.com or call (800) BUY-MOEN (800-289-6636).

In the bath
Granite is the dominant material chosen for vanities in current remodels – used by seven of every eight designers – however, in 2010 alternative natural materials, like marble, will continue to grow in popularity.

According to NKBA, just under half of bathroom designers utilize marble, as it provides a sophisticated look that’s reminiscent of Roman baths with its regal, refined detail that exudes a sense of luxury. Plus, marble countertops provide a stain-resistant, water-resistant, rugged and durable surface – ideal for child-friendly bathrooms or homes with just one bathroom that see a lot of traffic throughout the day.

NKBA also forecasts that integrated sink tops will be a popular choice this year, as you can easily use existing items to achieve this look. By adding a sink into an antique dresser or chest, designers are creating one-of-a-kind vanities for nearly 30 percent of all clients.

Polished chrome finishes are another bathroom design trend for 2010. Look to incorporate this chic metal accent into all your hardware by updating the accessories in your bath, as well. You’ll be able to make a big impact with small updates like new towel bars and robe hooks, for a completely coordinated look.

Courtesy of ARAcontent