Design Trends 2018
Most of our clients come to us saying they want their kitchen to be highly functional but timeless. With the hefty expense of updating a kitchen, it’s no surprise clients want to make selections that will serve them well for many years to come. The desire for a classic style have given way to open floor plans, large islands, and shaker cabinets in solid gray or white. These looks are beautiful in their simplicity and will continue to be strong for years to come but 2018 brings a few new twists.
Here are the top eight trends you can expect to see in 2018 and through 2019
1. Pops of bold color
Who said cabinets have to be one simple color? 2018 is all about mixing it up. While neutrals still have strong appeal, clients are increasingly looking for more variety and being braver in style and color choices. Two-tone cabinetry is becoming increasingly popular and is most often accomplished by pairing the upper cabinets in one color and the bottom cabinets in another, darker hue. One trend for this year is the use of two or more neutrals, mixing wood with paint, and even the introduction of bold, rich colors like navy blue.
2. Fewer upper cabinets
Clients are opting for fewer wall cabinets to reveal a clean, uncluttered look for a lighter feel. In lieu of cabinets, we are seeing back splashes stretch to cover the expanse of the walls, large windows to reveal a view outside, and open shelving to display or store items used frequently. Limiting the number of wall cabinets means relying more on storage accessories housed within the lower cabinets and the use of large pantries.
3. Larger kitchen sinks
Who knew your kitchen sink could be more than just a sink? We’re seeing this formerly unremarkable appliance undergo a huge evolution! These new, larger sinks serve as a multi-functional workstation where you can prepare, serve, entertain, and clean up all in one place. They can even be used outside! Barbecue anyone?
4. Patterned backsplashes
2018 is all about bold patterns, colors, textures, and unique color combinations. We are seeing mirrored finishes, hand painted designs, over sized patterns, and unique laser cut shapes. Some clients are giving subway tile a modern twist by installing it in different configurations like herringbone, chevron, or grid patterns.
5. Tech in the kitchen
The “smart” home is all the rage and now includes kitchen appliances. Refrigerators come complete with touch screens and cameras to monitor the contents inside. Ovens can be controlled from across the room or across the world with the touch of your phone. They can steam cook food more quickly than conventional ovens while retaining nutrients and flavor. All of your kitchen appliances can even be synced so each dish finishes cooking at the same time! You can preheat your oven using voice control, your dishwasher can alert you when it springs a leak, and if that’s not enough, the more you use them the smarter they get! What will they think up next?
6. Brass is back!
No, that was not a typo but don’t worry, it’s not the dated brass of the 1980s, nor is it your grandmother’s brass. The brass of today is not as shiny or as “brassy” as it used to be and can give a hint of luxury to your space. Both contemporary and modern, brushed brass makes a statement without being too flashy and is a warm way to incorporate metal accents into your interior design.
7. Flat panel doors – even in oak
Shaker doors have nearly replaced the use of the more traditional raised panel door style, but there is a new style on the rise – the “slab” door. This door is a solid, flat door with no frame or panel. It is typically used in transitional and contemporary designs and is available in a variety of wood species, modern materials like foil and acrylics, high-gloss lacquer, and even oak. Yes, oak. It, too, is having a resurgence particularly with quarter saw or rift cut varieties.
8. Statement hoods
Hoods are loud and proud! No longer eyesores hiding under faux cabinet doors, hoods are a dramatic focal point in the kitchen. Metal or wood -- contemporary or rustic -- hoods are available in every material, shape, and style.