Kitchen Trends
Remodeling kitchens and baths can be costly, but the return is worth it for home owner convenience as well as resale value. If you're considering updating or a total remodel, you'll want to get the best for your money. Technology, as well as style change, here are some of the latest trends in kitchen updates.
- White is the choice of color 48 percent of the time. Sleek European black and stainless steel are also popular.
- Families are spending more time and entertaining more often in the kitchen, so remodeling plans frequently include an area with a separate table and chairs for people to gather. Sliding or French doors leading to a deck or patio are an added convenience.
- The light wood-grain look is in for cabinets. Oak remains the most popular, followed by cherry and maple. Bleached woods are effective when designing a tropical look.
- Kitchen cabinets with clear glass panels and beveled edges are in demand.
- Architectural trim around appliances, such as Georgian molding, Gothic accents or Roman arch doors are wanted features.
- Oak wood floors, usually plank and almost always light in color, are a trend - but vinyl is still the material of choice most of the time, with ceramic tile in second place.
- Very popular are built-in compartments in kitchen counter tops that conceal mixers, blenders and food processors.
- Double ovens and built-in microwave ovens are the most fashionable options for cooking units.
- White or a bold primary color makes a splash for faucets; also popular - period styles, such as Victorian porcelain.
- Art deco glass blocks are being used to take advantage of natural light while maintaining privacy.
- Luxury items in demand are built-in wine racks and elaborate wine cellars. Built in warming trays and sub-zero freezers are popular for those who enjoy entertaining.
- Art work in the kitchen shows up as large, framed posters, as well as terra cotta wall planters and even sculpture.