Kitchen Trends 2018: What Home Owners are Spending Their Money on
Design trends are ever-evolving and, since the kitchen is one of the most important rooms in real estate, it makes sense that home owners are investing their renovation dollars here. Want to know what home owners are spending their hard earned bucks on in the kitchen in 2018? We’ve summed up some of the most popular trends in contemporary and classic style.
Modern Rustic
Contemporary style is getting a makeover with elements that evoke an earthy, natural feel. Sleek, white cabinetry and elegant, upgraded fixtures are complemented by barn door pantry enclosures, live edge butcher block countertops, exposed brick, and large farmhouse tables. A truly winning combination.
Entertainment-inspired Layouts
Gone are the days of having a formal dining and living space reserved only for holidays and special occasions. Open layout principal rooms are creating a space to entertain every day. Traditional U-shaped kitchens that are closed off from the rest of the home are a way of the past. Modern designs feature low profile, L-shaped layouts that allow for a grand centre island and offer sight lines to the family room, a space where everyone can gather, converse and interact.
Banquette Seating
No, we’re not talking about a 70s diner-style booth. Think more along the lines of solid wood bench seating with comfy cushions. Bench seating or a banquette alcove sets have a rustic look, and set the tone for home cooked family meals, conversations, game nights, or crafting with the kids. Cue the warm, fuzzies, because this is a memory-maker design for sure.
Organization Systems
Organizational features are being built-into the design of the kitchen to eliminate unnecessary clutter. Pull-out waste and recycling drawers are replacing freestanding trash cans or small under-the-sink bins. For the little nick-knacks and mail that would typically clutter countertops, create a drawer that can be used as a momentary catch all. Consider a pot and pan drawer that takes the strain out of reaching to the bottom or back of a cupboard for heavy cookware. For the entertainer, a built-in wine rack, bar fridge or beverage drawer make your host duties a breeze!
Quartz and Concrete
Photo: www.concretenetwork.com
The going trend for countertops is still quartz or even concrete for extreme durability. While granite is still a highly coveted option, many are choosing quartz for its easy-care qualities. Once sealed, it’s non-porous, leaving it stain-resistant and bacteria-free. For heat resistance and cost, it’s on the same level as granite. For slightly tighter budgets, the outdoors are being brought in again with concrete. This hardy material can be sleek and smooth, stamped with various textures, or coloured to suit your style. The possibilities are endless! These materials aren’t for countertops alone. Trendsetter kitchens are extending these seamless finishes to backsplashes, walls and built-in sinks. Yes… built-in sinks. Forget about the scratches and water spots on stainless steel. Equally durable, quartz and concrete give a high-end finish for not much more in expense.
All in the Details
Drawer pulls, cabinet knobs, light fixtures and faucets… it’s all in the details. Gold or nickel are a fading fad. Copper or black exude contemporary sophistication. Black can add a masculine feel to light and airy palettes whereas copper can add a feminine feel to rustic textures. Either of these styles gets a perfect score from us!
Technology
Who says technology is restricted to the media room? Technology is being brought to the kitchen in many forms, primarily with the way appliances function and perform. Who doesn’t want an oven that they can control or monitor from their phone? Or a tv that creates your grocery list for you? Life could be so much easier wouldn’t it? How about wiring in some speakers! Or add a Bluetooth enabled speaker device like Google Home or even speaker light bulbs. While you’re working or entertaining in the kitchen, a little mood music really sets the tone and gets the party started!