"NO MORE" TRENDS IN KITCHENS

ellis+co real estate
Jul 7, 2017
3 min read

Investing in a kitchen remodel is a huge endeavor. Not only do you have to eat out of a microwave and mini fridge for four to six weeks, but you also have to deal with the dust, noise and new debt. Even with all the chaos of a remodel, an upgraded kitchen is usually the centerpiece of any home. With more and more open-floor plan homes, kitchens are seen from all angles. Kitchens have become the hub of entertainment for family and friends. Kitchens are no longer simply a functional space. Families want to feel comfortable in them with colors they love and space to enjoy it.

One big change for the kitchen is the popular triangle. No longer are kitchens being built with the focus on the refrigerator, range and sink. Instead, families are opting for kitchens that work best for their family. Think more in the concept of zones, prepping food, cooking food, cleaning food and storage. Your kitchen should fit your lifestyle. If you love to cook regularly, invest in quality appliances to make your experience more enjoyable. If your kitchen is used more for prepping quick breakfast and lunches for the kids, more counter space in one area with everyday storage directly above may work best for your family.

Here are five kitchen trends you will be drooling over for your next kitchen:

NO MORE GRANITE COUNTERS

Most homes these days are built with granite counters, with speckles of this and that. Marble has come more into fashion this last decade, but not only is it expensive but it is very difficult to maintain. Thankfully, manufacturers such as Carrick and Laminex, are coming out with “marble alternatives” that look as elegant as marble and are more durable than natural stone. They are engineered to guard against stains and scratches making it easier to clean and keep its beauty. Leave the speckles to the spec homes and go with the beautiful swirls of marble.

NO MORE SUBWAY TILES

If I can give you one bit of advice, avoid subway tile. Subway tile had a retro feel for many years and was easy to like because it was neutral, coordinating with everything. Unfortunately, it is boring. One day I was sent a sweepstakes entry from Fireclay Tile, and I will never turn back to subway tile. Not only can your tile be bright and bold for those with more cuts and glory, but it can be neutral, with white and black patterns or simple hexagons.

NO MORE STAINLESS STEEL APPLIANCES

Since the 80s, the only options for most appliances were almond, white, black and then it was stainless steel. And more stainless steel and more stainless steel. For the generations that grew up with the olive green and burnt orange kitchens of the 1970s, it has been scary to think of a kitchen with too much color. Finally, more appliance makers are coming out with popular colors and vintage options. Navy, light blue and green panels are being built to give kitchens more personality. Even appliance designer, The Big Chill in Colorado, offers every color of the rainbow in vintage styled appliances for those that love all things vintage.

NO MORE GLOSSY CABINETS

With all the new trends in color, whether in your backsplash, floors, shiny countertops or copper hardware, cabinets are trending toward matte. Less reflective and soft to the touch, this trend seems to gaining a lot more traction and is poised to stay. And remember to add some color to your cabinets. With the disappearance of the beige and brown cabinets of the past, and the brightness of white, more bold colors are coming into fashion. Black, navy and grey are excellent alternatives for those that want to take a risk.

MORE OPEN SHELVING

This trend is popping up in all types of kitchens. Whether it is modern, traditional or a farmhouse kitchen, the open shelf is a budget friendly design that creates stylish storage options. We are also seeing it in high end kitchens blending function and fashion. The key is to keep it monochromatic with both your dishes and shelving. Sprinkle in plants, artwork, a burst of colorful Le Creuset pans or the shine of copper pots. Personalize your open kitchen by showing off your beautiful teacup collection.