For durability clients prefer natural stone, concrete, porcelain or ceramic tile. For warmth and character you can't beat reclaimed wood flooring. The more distressed they are the less wear and tear they show. Everyday wear blends right in!
How can one personalize your kitchen without committing to something permanent
Don't forget to allow a place for artwork or photography to add personal flair in your kitchen. Carefully chosen light fixtures have an amazing impact on a kitchen both visually and functionally. Wallpaper while somewhat permanent, is once again enjoying resurgence. Window treatments can help you define your kitchen's personality as well.
Important factors to consider in kitchen design layout
A functional layout is key, you need to consider the
working triangle. All the legs of the triangle should be approximately four to nine feet. You need to be able to work efficiently between your sink/ preparation area, stove and refrigerator. You will waste a lot of time in your kitchen preparing a meal if this classic idea is not well thought out and incorporated.
Unique features to incorporate into your kitchen design
There are too many unique cabinet details, door styles and other options that are available to even scratch the surface. An example of something unique would be incorporating different types of inserts into cabinet doors ( more interesting then just glass) such as antique mirror or copper with a beautiful patina. You might select architectural elements such as iron brackets for shelves or carved corbels for your island.
For a sleeker look you can use back- painted glass or stainless steel on the backsplash. You can select your cabinet hardware to be the jewelry of the kitchen or opt for no hardware to reinforce a sleek design. Using unexpected patterns and colors on the floor or ceiling can make a bold statement. There are endless options!
Trends in kitchen design
A strong ongoing trend that everyone seems to follow these days is the white cabinet, white subway tile, Carrera marble trend. New trends on their way into the American market include the increased appearance of gray and greige for cabinets as well as walls. Brass faucets and light fixtures are once again becoming very popular. Designers like the contrast between the warmer metal and the gray or griege background. This is not the shiny brass of the past but a sophisticated antique brass. Some designers are using unpolished brass that is considered a live finish because it will change over time.
Upcoming trends in European kitchen shows include the use of natural wood finishes, counter materials and added textures. Bloggers who have attended these design shows say that glazed cabinets we have seen so abundantly in the past were nowhere to be found. Also they have reported seeing a lot of glossy cabinets and color blocking with bright colors. Strong eclecticism was seen.
For appliances integration was noted. The kitchens were decidedly sleeker and more modern. I have also noted that appliance companies such as
Blue Star, and
Smeg are making customizable color features available. They are daring but really beautiful.
A huge thank you to Karen for sharing her expertise in kitchen design and trends. Check out more of her work on her website and houzz page!