Once largely national in scope, the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show has evolved into an influential international exposition. This May, a record-breaking 44,000 professionals filled three halls of the Las Vegas Convention Center to visit more than 1,000 exhibits representing the world’s top designers and manufacturers—including those from North and South America, Europe, Asia, and Australia. This migration of ideas resulted in a merging of European aesthetics and technologies with those from the U.S. - Linda C. Lentz
 

Turkish gems
Italian industrial designer Matteo Thun’s Water Jewels bath suite comprises a sumptuous material mix including ceramic wall-hung vanities in several sizes that accommodate undercounter or countertop basins available in marble, ceramic, VitrA Solid polyester resin, wood, glass, and blue-enameled terra-cotta. Optional polyester resin or wood drain plates, pierced with floral or triangle patterns, add a touch of exotic charm. VitrA, Suwanee, Ga. www.vitra-usa.com

[Reader Service: July 2007 #206]
 

Above and beyond
MasterCool modular refrigeration offers a dual compressor system along with thorough halogen lighting up the sides of the units, simple waist-level touch controls, flush integration, and wireless remote monitoring 24/7. The MasterChef motorized DA 424 V island hood eases placement issues by allowing users to easily vary its height as needed. Miele, Princeton, N.J. www.miele.com

[Reader Service: July 2007 #207]
 

Laundry cum spa
Available in stainless steel, white, and Wild Cherry red, the SteamWasher and SteamDryer clean and refresh clothing, rendering it virtually wrinkle free via the units’ generator-powered SteamFresh cycles that convert water to steam. Optional base drawers provide storage and height for easy access, while the company’s remote monitoring system keeps track of wash and dry status anywhere in a home. LG, Englewood Cliffs, N.J. www.lgusa.com

[Reader Service: July 2007 #208]
     

On a roll
Available in stainless steel or chrome for 60'' single threshold or 72'' x 42'' bases in one-, two-, and three-sided configurations, the German-engineered Teutonic shower enclosure features industrial-strength rollers that glide effortlessly along its solid stainless steel track so that any user can slide its 79'' high by 7¼8'' thick, 200-pound safety glass panel. MTI, Sugar Hill, Ga. www.mtiwhirlpools.com

[Reader Service: July 2007 #209]

Suspended ventilation
The Arc collection of vents pairs with electric Ceran radiant and induction cooktops. Units in plain or etched glossy red, white, or black tempered glass vent through wall or ceiling and operate via discreet touch-controls. Zephyr, San Francisco. www.zephyronline.com

[Reader Service: July 2007 #210]