When one is preparing to sell their home or remodeling, kitchen design trends normally become one of the first things discussed by homeowners and designers. As one of the most used areas of a home, kitchens are where families and friends converge to share meals and talk about their lives. Following are some of the most popular trends for 2016 that some interior designers believe might be here to stay for quite some time.
Gray Might Be the New White
While a white kitchen with painted cabinets is traditional and timeless, a modern twist on the classic white kitchen is a muted gray one. Soft gray tones for cabinetry are becoming increasingly popular according to HGTV, and some industry insiders suspect that gray might become more popular than white in coming years.
Light and Dark, Balanced
In the Dallas–Fort Worth area, there was a time when dark-colored cabinetry paired with dark slabs of granite was all the rage. Model homes from five to ten years ago featured cherry-stained woodwork, which is now considered dated according to Fox News, paired with black and dark gray countertops. Today’s kitchen design trends showcase a more balanced approach. When designers and homeowners opt for dark cabinetry, it is paired with light-toned counters and backsplashes. HGTV recommends balancing light and dark colors to create drama and dimension without looking dated or making a room appear smaller than it should.
Midcentury Modern is Making a Comeback
Midcentury Modern style is making a comeback but with a Nordic twist. This minimalist approach to design relies on clean, sharp lines, bare countertops, and simple light fixtures. While this style of kitchen pays homage to the Midcentury Modern aesthetic with light-colored accents of wood, it is also decidedly modern and functional says Houzz.com.
Quartz Countertops Outshine Granite
While granite is still very popular and has reigned supreme for the last decade or so, quartz countertops are becoming increasingly popular. Available in a variety of finishes including hues of gray, white, and marble-like patterns, quartz is more durable and lower maintenance than granite. HGTV recommends quartz as an aesthetically pleasing alternative to granite and marble because it is stain- and scratch-resistant.
Kitchen and Living Room Integration
Watch any home and garden television show and you’ll see prospective buyers or those remodeling their homes discussing their love of open floor plans. An open floor plan has been very sought after, after all, it brings the most used spaces of a home together. For those loving open floor plans, there is another alternative, which is integrating the kitchen into the living room. An integrated kitchen and living space differs from an open concept because designers “merge kitchens and living rooms by including hidden and integrated appliances,” according to Houzz.com.
When researching kitchen design trends for an upcoming remodel or when purchasing a home, be sure to look for elements that have timeless appeal. Investing money into a short-lived fad could cost you a return on your investment or reduce the mass appeal of your home.
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