April 27, 2016 11:42 am
Kitchen designs, just like any other trend, can change from one year to the next. The question is, what is it that actually drives these trends? What on earth can be responsible for changes in style when it comes to choosing a new kitchen? The answers may be both simple and complex, and the simple answer is personal taste. At the more complex end of the spectrum, kitchen designers are in the driving seat when it comes to determining the latest trends, as very often it’s their designs that make it into the brochures, and lifestyle publications.
April 27, 2016 11:41 am
So what’s new for 2016? Word has it, and direct from designers themselves, that choice of colour schemes are changing. Gone are the bold and bright reds and whites, and in comes the more subtle hues of blue, green and yellow. Lighter shades of grey and tinted whites will be replacing the richer, and more distinct tones of yesteryear. Even woodgrain finishes will appear to have that pale, washed out look as dark oaks and exotic hardwoods make way for walnut, and whitewood.
April 27, 2016 11:36 am
Moving on, there is some evidence to suggest that the kitchen is also becoming a gadget charging station. Modern kitchen designers have realised that we mere mortals like to have our hi-tech smart devices where we can conveniently collect them in the mornings. However, concealment is key as we don’t want our smart phones and tablets littering the worktops. Hidden or discreet charging spaces is a trend that will really catch on. Other smart appliances will also be finding their way into the new kitchen, so expect to see more coffee machines and wine coolers.
April 27, 2016 11:35 am
Sometimes trends go full circle and there’s some suggestion that the 80’s look will be re-emerging this year, so don’t be surprised to see a little more brass and gloss around the kitchen. The brass is likely to be a lot less bold and the gloss much more likely to be a little less lustrous than any earlier versions. Metal finishes are finding favour again, especially with cooker hoods so expect to see more grey steel, copper, and bronze finishes.
April 27, 2016 11:35 am
Floor and wall coverings are facing a makeover for 2016, and although traditional styles are not really affected, there is likely to be more emphasis on textures. Riven and patterned stone flooring is popular this year and there are some excellent choices available. Textured wall coverings with subtle shades of colour will be allowed to contrast with the kitchen’s modern style.
April 27, 2016 11:34 am
Simplicity and functionality will be buzz words around the world of kitchen designers in 2016, as they look towards removing clutter and disorder. Out will go bright ceiling lighting, making way for low voltage and low level, LED lighting strips, which will adequately illuminate the worktops from beneath the wall cabinets.
