As the new command center, the kitchen is serving as makeshift offices, classrooms and more. With so much time spent at home the kitchen is emerging as the new family room. Homeowners are pulling in the character and style of their other rooms with hues, materials and décor. Vibrant, fun cabinet colors are transforming kitchens and also transcending to backsplashes, floors and ceilings. Minimal clutter and maximum efficiency are also at the top of the list this year. And naturally, products that lend themselves to increased cleanliness, such as non-porous quartz countertops and seamless slab backsplashes, are on the rise as well.
As kitchens continue to evolve and become front-and-center, you might need a little help to get it there. Get inspired with a look at the latest design trends.
#1 – Tuxedo Kitchens: Get black-tie fancy by switching things up. Blend white wall cabinets with black base cabinets for a truly classy combination that will keep things looking airy and open, while grounded and refined. This dual-tone look is chic and timeless.
#2 – Open Shelving: Forego the closed, cabinet doors and amplify space by incorporating floating shelving. The options are endless and range from glass and metal to neutral toned wood. If you’re going for a minimalist look, the one shelf design is a perfect fit. This clean, streamlined look is a great way to show off beautiful dinnerware sets, glassware and art.
#3 – Color: Things have been very white and a little blasé for a while, and everyone is now craving color. Shades of blue are all the rage and being added with two-toned cabinetry. Keep it balanced with neutral colored upper cabinetry and add the splash with your base cabinetry. Make a true artistic statement by adding pops of the same color to light fixtures, hardware, accessories, decorations or rugs.
#4 – Quartz Countertops: It’s official: when it comes to countertops, quartz is king. Because it’s man-made, the variety of colors, textures and looks is nearly limitless. Plus, uniformed designs and patterns make matching paint, tile, and cabinets much easier than with marble or granite. Kick it up a notch by selecting a style with crushed glass, metal flakes or other materials. Quartz is also loved for its affordability, durability and low maintenance. It brings all the beauty without the burden.
#5 – Full-Height Slab Backsplashes: Want to add a luxury feel to your kitchen that won’t break the bank? Consider making an impression with a slab backsplash.These can be designed to stretch from the top of the countertop to the bottom of upper cabinets or all the way to the ceiling. Whether you’re looking for a bold, unique look or simply less maintenance, slab backsplashes are an excellent choice.
#6 – Microwave Drawers: Creating a streamlined space in your kitchen means having clean countertop lines…and that means hiding microwaves and other “clutter” for true style. Swap the traditional wall or cabinet-style microwave for a sleek microwave drawer that will tuck away into your island or cabinet.
#7 – Texture in the Kitchen: Gone are the days of “shiny-and-smooth”. Unique textures and layered looks, implied and tactical, are being incorporated into the kitchen with a variety of techniques and materials. Adding recessed or raised cabinets or ones with distressed or glazed finishes is a great starting point. And a textured backsplash tile takes it to a whole new level! A few natural elements, like a butcher block or soap stone countertop, can pull it all together and provide the perfect visual balance.
#8 – Statement Range Hoods: The true definition of function and style, a ventilation range hood can change the look of your entire kitchen and improve air quality! Available in all shapes and sizes, you can blend your range hood into your existing design and color palette or make a unique, standout statement by mixing it up with a copper or rustic wood piece.
#9 – Reclaimed / Vintage Farm Sinks: We think it’s safe to say that these classic pieces will never go out of style. Truly timeless and also incredibly functional, they have plenty of room for items that require handwashing and are a great amenity for those that love to entertain. Bring a little bit of history into your home…and get ready for the compliments!
#10 – Super Pantries: We’ve all seen them on Instagram and Pinterest: gloriously spacious, perfectly organized, walk-in pantries. These designed spaces, complete with shelving, counterspace and drawers, are housing more than just canned goods. Pantries are now doubling as prep-stations, wine cellars and even coffee bars. Keep your kitchen clean and sophisticated by disguising your pantry behind a cabinet door. These sanity-savers are a must have!