It’s an exciting time for the kitchen industry, with the return of retro design, sugary cabinetry shades, gold sinks and taps, and appliances enhanced with artificial intelligence. And, these are just a few ideas that have recently caught my eye!
If you are planning a project and need a dose of inspiration, you’re in the right place – I’ve got the complete breakdown of what’s going to be big in kitchens. Intrigued? Read on…
1. Colourful retro appliances
Retro design is back on our radar: think chunky appliances – from range cookers to fridge-freezers – with curved edges, drenched in colour and embellished with robust controls and handles. They work well in both classic and more modern interiors and are a guaranteed way of adding the wow factor to your scheme. So, if this sounds just like your style, why not incorporate a bit of eye candy into your kitchen with colourful retro appliances?
2. Illuminated kitchen worktops
Next up, we’re ticking off illuminated, elevated worktops on the kitchen trends list. The surfaces look as though they are levitating above the base units, while the built-in LED lights add plenty of visual interest to any design. This worktop idea works especially well in a contemporary, handleless kitchen.
3. Pocket doors
Oh, how I love a pocket door! They can help you achieve a show-stopping feature in your kitchen simply by tapping and sliding; plus, they are extremely practical and versatile. For example, you can put your home bar on display to wow your guests. Or, if you prefer a streamlined kitchen design, why not fit bi-fold doors on your freestanding larder or run of cabinets to ensure you have access to ingredients when cooking? By closing the doors, you can instantly hide away appliances and various kitchenalia, transforming your kitchen into household furniture.
4. Living kitchen cabinetry
Pocket doors, which help you transform your kitchen into household furniture, lead me on to… the living cabinetry look. If you don’t want your kitchen to look like, well… a kitchen, this trend is perfect for you. Picture handleless wall cupboards that blend in with your living-room storage solutions, illuminated bookcase-style shelving units and multi-level islands with filing-cabinet-inspired drawers.
5. Illuminated wall solutions
From lit-up worktops to under-cupboard spots, decorative lighting is having a moment in the kitchen industry. But the next big thing is the illuminated wall solution. What is it and why do you need it? If you love putting kitchenalia on display, this is taking open shelving to the next level.
We love this solution by Rotpunkt, which can be customised according to your needs. You can mix and match compact shelves to display your favourite mugs, hooks for hanging tea towels or utensils, and book holders so that inspiration for your next meals is to hand. How would you personalise yours?
6. Multi-level kitchen islands
Is an island top of your wishlist? A two-tier or split-level design offers plenty of practical benefits, while creating a statement feature in your kitchen. Achieve your dream breakfast spot with the help of a high bar-style table top, or a bespoke dining area with a grand, low-level peninsula. The best bit? You can get really creative with the design, from mixing and matching materials to building in banquettes or adding extra food preparation space.
7. Hidden utility rooms
Another big theme I’ve spotted recently is secret doors. Which lead where, I hear you ask? To utility rooms, pantries or bootilities. This trend encourages you to blend doors to walk-in pantries, back kitchens or utility rooms within your kitchen cabinetry for a sleek and cohesive look. I must say, I love this concept!
8. Pretty pastels
Inject a fresh feeling into your kitchen with the help of powdery pastels. The latest kitchen designs feature splashes of pistachio green and dusty pink. And, this colour combo looks especially beautiful when paired with crisp, white worktops adorned with shiny speckles or stone-inspired veins.
However, if you’re just not yet ready to commit to colourful cabinetry, fear not – you can embrace this kitchen trend by adding a pop of colour through appliances, such as statement range cookers and matching hoods. Pretty!
9. Gold kitchen sinks and taps
When it comes to gold, I am like a magpie; I am instantly drawn to this shiny finish. And it looks like I am not the only one – I’ve been spotting bright gold making its way into the kitchen. So, although brass remains a timeless choice, why not add a dash of luxury to your kitchen’s wet zone with gold sinks and taps?
10. AI-assisted appliances
There is no doubt technology is ever evolving, so what is the future of appliances? Artificial intelligence, or as Jonathan Hartley, channel manager, built-in appliances at Samsung UK says, amazing intelligence has landed in the kitchen! Samsung has unveiled its latest range of products powered by AI. I was impressed by the Series 7 oven equipped with an internal camera and AI Pro Cooking function, which can recommend recipes and optimise settings by recognising the ingredients. Wow!
11. The hard-working kitchen sink
The kitchen sink is working overtime. Make the most of your washing up zone by using handy accessories such as colanders, chopping boards and roll-up drainers and mats. Not only do they help streamline your experience, but they can also help you save space. Available in a range of sizes, materials, and finishes, you can match your accessories to your kitchen sink or tap or go for a contrasting option.
12. Fluting
Fluted finishes are bigger and better – I’m talking reeded glass wall units, grooved kitchen islands, and ribbed floor-to-ceiling cabinets. Fluting is a stylish way of adding interest to dated furniture or enhancing the tactile experience of any design.