1. Flexible instead of open layouts.
The number of homeowners renovating interiors to gain an open-concept plan has dropped since 2019, according to the 2021 U.S. Houzz Kitchen Trends Study. Instead, it’s evolved into a desire for flex space—a reimagined open concept.
Homeowners seek an adjacent space to keep work, hobbies, or play out of the main living space.
Within the kitchen layout, the work triangle of the sink, refrigerator, and cooktop being close proximity is still paramount. But with more people congregating in the kitchen, design is shifting to add ancillary zones. A baking center has gained interest, according to Houzz, as more homeowners prepare breads and cakes, and post in cooking groups. Many homeowners also want a comfortable seating area for eating, working, schmoozing, etc.
2. Bigger islands.
“The bigger the better” seems to be the rule, and larger kitchen island designs could replace a table. 7x14½ feet is common, so that it can fit several people sitting or working together, plus room for a sink, dishwasher, and microwave.
3. Bolder backsplashes.
Backsplashes have become a way to add personality to a kitchen. More people are moving beyond traditional rectangular subway tiles to herringbone, hexagonal, picket fence, and penny-round mosaic patterns.
Another way to introduce boldness is with a single slab covering the backsplash, which eliminates cleaning grout lines. When homeowners tire of their choice, a backsplash is among the easiest, most affordable changes to make.
4. Multitasking appliances.
With so many demands placed on the kitchen, homeowners are favoring appliances that serve multiple functions. Many homeowners are choosing steam/convection ovens and hot water/filtration systems. Cooking more at home has led to bigger appliances, from longer sinks—sometimes five feet and with features like sliding cutting boards—to tall columns designated for refrigeration or freezing, and more personalized components.
5. Warmer, efficient lighting.
LEDs have grabbed the spotlight, whether under, in, and above cabinets, in ceilings, and along toe kicks. One reason, they’re more energy efficient; another—technology has made it easier to achieve a warmer, dimmable LED. LEDs are programmable to vary in brightness and colors. Pendant lighting remains popular dangling above an island, but a new trend is one substantial fixture.
6. More specialized storage.
Besides needing better storage for buying in bulk and making fewer runs to stores, homeowners are also looking to designers to help find places to better stash pantry goods, dishes, glasses, cutlery, and small appliances. Some homeowners are adding on “super pantries". If spaced doesn't allow, pantry cabinets with rollout shelves and room at the bottom for taller items is another option.
When it comes to cabinetry, drawers are preferred to cabinets since they’re easier to access. Flat rather than shaker style is also favored for easier cleaning and they because they can be dressed up with hardware. Homeowners are interested in cabinet systems to organize everything from cookie sheets to spices to recycling bins.
7. Sturdier floors.
More people at home equate to more wear and tear on floors, so durable, easy-to-clean choices rank high. The Houzz survey found that vinyl wood-style planks have become more popular than hardwood.
8. Auxiliary outdoor kitchens.
Homeowners value outdoor space more than ever. Some outdoor kitchens have all the bells and whistles, from pizza ovens and smokers to wine fridges, warming drawers, heaters, furniture, and fireplaces. The warm weather locations offer incentive to invest in the outdoor living area.
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