Introduction
Kitchen design trends are constantly evolving to incorporate new materials, layouts, and technologies. While some looks come and go, others stand the test of time. This week we’ll explore four fresh kitchen design ideas that you may not have considered before. From unexpected color palettes to space-saving storage solutions, these innovative concepts will inspire you to think outside the box for your next kitchen remodel or design project. Keep reading to discover kitchen design ideas that are new this week and learn how to implement them in your own home.
Explore Two-Toned Kitchen Cabinets
One of the biggest trends in kitchen design right now is two-toned, or mixed, cabinetry. While most kitchens stick to cabinets in one color, more designers are exploring cabinetry in two complementary hues. For example, you might opt for white upper cabinets and navy blue lower cabinets. Or combine light wood base cabinets with dark wood uppers. Using two colors allows you to add visual interest while breaking up the monotony of uniform cabinets.
When selecting two colors for your kitchen cabinets, choose a light and dark color for contrast. Neutral tones like white, gray, and light wood are ideal for upper cabinets since they give the impression of height and space. Darker cabinets on the bottom anchor the space. Make sure both colors coordinate well with your kitchen’s overall color scheme. Materials can be mixed as well, such as painted cabinets up top and stained wood down below. Get creative and choose two colors you love!
Embrace Open Shelving for a Modern Look
Open shelving has become a staple of modern kitchen design. Replacing some upper cabinets with open shelving instantly gives your kitchen a sleek, contemporary look. It also allows you to highlight your beautiful cookware, dinnerware and glassware. While open shelves may not be for everyone, they are relatively easy to incorporate.
If doing a full kitchen remodel, consider removing one or two upper cabinet sections to install open shelving. Or you can simply take the doors off of existing cabinet boxes. Opt for sturdy, thick shelves in materials like wood or metal. Keep everyday dishes and cooking items on the open shelves for convenient access. Style the shelves attractively with your favorite kitchenware.
Make sure items are easy to reach without a step stool. Open shelving works best in kitchens with a minimalist, organized aesthetic. Take advantage of vertical space and high ceilings by installing shelves reaching upwards of 7-8 feet. Edit down your items to only display your essentials and things worthy of showing off.
Get Creative with Unique Kitchen Islands
The kitchen island is the natural focal point of the room. While most kitchen islands are simple rectangular shapes, now is the time to get creative! Consider an unconventional island shape, from curved and oval islands to triangles, trapezoids and other angled designs. Or incorporate an alternative island material like concrete, stone or reclaimed wood.
Zig-zag patterns, varied counter heights and asymmetrical island designs are other unique trends. Making a statement with your kitchen island layout and materials can elevate your whole space to the next level. Just make sure to choose functional, durable materials that can withstand daily use. And incorporate seating space and storage to maximize your island’s functionality.
If renovating, work with your contractor to create custom island dimensions that work for your kitchen. Or opt for a movable kitchen cart or butcher-block island on wheels for flexibility. However you design it, choosing a non-traditional kitchen island shape and material is an eye-catching way to revamp your cooking space.
Add Warmth with Natural Finishes
Current kitchen design trends favor a warm, natural aesthetic. Incorporating wood, stone, rattan, bamboo and other organic materials adds texture and coziness to kitchen spaces. Natural finishes provide a soothing contrast to cold stainless steel appliances and countertops.
Warm wood kitchen islands, bamboo cabinetry, stone or brick backsplashes and wooden flooring are just a few ways to bring nature indoors. If doing a remodel, replace traditional tiles with natural stone finishes. Swap out granite countertops for eco-friendly wood alternatives. Use timber, reclaimed wood or bamboo for open shelving. And consider painting cabinets in warm wood tones like walnut. Copper and brass accents also add an earthy feel.
Creating a natural kitchen ambiance tied to nature promotes calmness and comfort at home. And sustainable natural materials have less environmental impact while still offering durability and functionality. Choose finishes and textures that resonate most with your personal tastes. Achieving a natural kitchen design full of wood, stone, metal and other organic elements results in a welcoming, inviting space.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the biggest kitchen design trends right now?
Some popular kitchen design trends include two-toned cabinets, open shelving, unique kitchen islands, and natural finishes. Mixing cabinet colors, adding open shelves, designing a non-traditional island, and using organic materials are very on-trend right now.
How do you incorporate two different cabinet colors?
A common approach is choosing neutral, light hues like white or light wood for wall/upper cabinets and darker colors like navy or black for base/lower cabinets. Make sure the tones complement each other. Materials can be mixed too, like painted uppers and stained wood lowers.
What should I display on open kitchen shelves?
Style open shelves attractively with your best kitchenware, cookbooks, accent pieces and everyday dishes. Edit down your items to only the essentials worthy of displaying. Make sure items can be reached easily without a step stool.
What types of materials work well for a kitchen island?
Popular island materials include wood, granite, marble, quartz, concrete, stone, stainless steel, or tile. Ensure the material is durable and able to withstand daily use. Wood and stone offer warmth while stainless steel and concrete have an industrial, modern look.
How do I add natural finishes to my kitchen?
Some ways to incorporate natural materials include wood cabinetry, bamboo or timber shelving, stone backsplash tiles, brick accent walls, rattan bar stools, copper sinks, and hardwood flooring. Remove manufactured finishes and instead opt for eco-friendly countertops like bamboo.
Conclusion
Implementing any of these four on-trend kitchen ideas – two-toned cabinets, open shelving, creative islands, and natural finishes – will give your cooking space a stylish makeover. Mix up your cabinet colors, highlight beautiful dishware with open shelves, design a unique island, and infuse natural wood, stone or metal finishes. Following the latest kitchen design trends ensures your space feels fresh, modern and totally you.
With some creativity and willingness to think outside the box, you can craft a kitchen that both functions well and looks incredibly stylish. Use these new and innovative kitchen design ideas as inspiration when renovating or building your dream cooking space.
