Introduction
Kitchen design trends are constantly evolving, with new and innovative ideas emerging all the time. It can be hard to keep up with the latest must-have features and clever solutions for your kitchen. Here are 8 kitchen design ideas you may have missed recently that are worth considering for your next remodel or new construction project.
Use Statement Lighting
Statement lighting has moved from bathrooms and living rooms into the kitchen. Using pendant lights over islands and statement chandeliers over dining tables is an eye-catching way to illuminate your kitchen. Opt for striking shapes or materials like brass, glass, or even colored lighting. Statement lighting adds personality and sophistication to any kitchen.
Incorporate Wood Accents
Wood finishes bring warmth and texture to kitchen design. Using wood for kitchen cabinets is still popular, but also consider integrating wood accents throughout the space. Wood shelves, beams, floors, islands, and ceilings can provide visual interest. Mix natural wood with painted cabinets for contrast. Walnut, oak, and maple are great wood options for a modern rustic style.
Choose Integrated Appliances
Integrated appliances are designed to blend seamlessly into cabinetry and kitchen design. Refrigerators, ovens, microwaves, and dishwashers are all available as integrated models. Opting for integrated appliances provides a sleek, uniform look. It streamlines your kitchen’s aesthetics and minimizes visual clutter. Integrated appliances are especially great for small kitchens.
Include L-Shaped Islands
L-shaped islands are a hot trend right now in kitchen design. They provide ample counter and storage space while distinguishing the island as a focal point. The L-shape is also efficient for multiple cooks working in the kitchen at once. Include seating on one side or two for casual dining space. Use the inside corner of the L island for a sink or cooktop.
Experiment with Colorful Cabinets
Neutral cabinet colors like white, gray, and navy are popular, but colorful kitchen cabinets make a statement. Blues, greens, reds, and yellows bring vibrant personality into the kitchen. Use color on the lower cabinets to anchor the space, or make the uppers colorful for eye-catching appeal. Painting just the island in a bright hue is also an option.
Spotlight Open Shelving
Glass-front cabinets and fully closed storage are no longer the only options. Open shelving highlights decorative dishware, cookbooks, and pantry items. Mixing open and closed storage keeps things visually interesting while still concealing mess when needed. Floating wood shelves, wall-mounted rails, and glass shelving all work. Just be sure to display your prettiest kitchen items!
Consider a Mid-Century Modern Theme
Mid-century modern style has come back in vogue and suits contemporary kitchen design well. Hallmarks include clean lines, minimal ornamentation, retro vibes, and natural materials. Mix brightly colored appliances and furniture with wood cabinetry and neutrals. Incorporate industrial lighting and decorative tile backsplashes. This look is hip yet timeless.
Add Handmade Ceramic Tile
Standard subway tiles are being replaced with handmade, artisanal tile backsplashes. Handmade ceramic tiles exhibit beautiful variations in coloring, shape, and texture. Using handmade tile is an easy way to add artsy flair and a custom look. Consider a Moroccan fish scale pattern, terra cotta relief tiles, or abstract designs. Let the backsplash be a work of art!
Conclusion
Kitchen design is an ever-evolving artform. It pays to look outside your comfort zone at the innovative ideas that emerge. Statement lighting, integrated appliances, L-shaped islands, and handmade backsplash tiles are some of the trends you may have overlooked. Incorporating wood accents, colorful cabinets, open shelving, and mid-century motifs are all fresh ways to make your kitchen stand out. With so many possibilities, you’re sure to find inspiring design ideas to make your kitchen unique.
FAQ
What are some of the latest kitchen design trends?
Some popular new kitchen design trends include statement lighting, L-shaped islands, integrated appliances, colorful cabinets, open shelving, mid-century modern style, and handmade ceramic tile backsplashes.
How can I add character to my kitchen through design?
Options for adding character through kitchen design include choosing statement pendant lights or a bold chandelier, opting for colorful cabinets, installing eye-catching tile backsplash, adding warm wood accents, floating open shelves, and incorporating vintage-inspired appliances and furnishings.
What factors should I consider when remodeling my kitchen?
Important factors when remodeling your kitchen include layout, traffic flow, cabinetry, countertops, appliances, lighting, flooring, backsplash, color scheme, functionality, storage solutions, budget, lifestyle needs, and personal style preferences. Prioritize changes that will increase efficiency, storage, or enjoyment of the space.
Should I use an interior designer for my kitchen remodel?
Professional interior designers and kitchen designers can provide immense value for kitchen remodels through their expertise in spatial planning, specifications, project management, aesthetics, and current trends. If your remodel budget allows, designers save time and headaches while bringing your vision to life.
What are some budget-friendly kitchen remodel ideas?
More affordable kitchen updates include painting cabinets, replacing hardware, installing new light fixtures, applying creative backsplashes, switching out countertops, replacing sinks/faucets, adding an accent wall, updating appliances, refinishing floors, maximizing storage, and decluttering for a streamlined look. Focus on big visual impact for minimal cost.
How can I add more storage to my small kitchen?
Storage solutions for small kitchens include wall-mounted rails, hanging pots/pans, narrow pull-out spice racks, drawer organizers, under-cabinet racks, lazy susans, shelving over the fridge, multi-level counter-height shelves, concealed waste/recycling bins, and maximizing cabinet space with specialized inserts and dividers.
