Whirlpool showcases 'Ice' sculptures

The spending news from the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) could have been better, but it could have been worse.

The NKBA Design Trends Survey, which asked designers for the total average cost of the kitchens they design, slipped in the 2013 survey to $47,308. That's down from 2012, but is well ahead of 2010 and 2011 (See chart).

One of the design nuggets from the NKBA survey of kitchen designers shows a "transitional" design — defined as "a seamless blend of traditional and contemporary" — has surpassed "traditional" as the preferred design for the first time in the association's history.

Whirlpool says it's firmly on top of that design trend with its Ice Collection.

Available in White Ice or Black Ice, both contemporary finishes are accented with stainless steel handles that reach for a sophisticated design for ranges, refrigerators and dishwashers. Other features include:

• Ice Collection ranges feature temperature management systems that cook food uniformly and with less energy.


• Ovens with a true convection system roasts up to 30% faster (versus a conventional oven roasting a 12-lb. to 14-lb. turkey).


• Counter-depth refrigerators with MicroEdge shelves provide 25% more shelf space (compared with Whirlpool refrigerators without MicroEdge shelves).


• Ovens feature EasyView extra-large window and AquaLift Self-Clean Technology.


• Dishwashers feature Sensor Cycle and PowerScour Option.


• Ranges feature the AccuBake temperature management system, TimeSavor true convection cooking system and Flex Power Burner.


• Refrigerators are Energy Star-qualified and feature MicroEdge spill control shelves.