New Homes Today Magazine
Integrating Kitchen Trends Into Your Home
Create a Space That Works for You
By Cornelia Stumpf
Many would agree that the kitchen is the hub of the home-a multifunctional place where food is prepared, conversations flow and families gather. With this in mind, it's becoming more significant that the design of a kitchen not only encompass personal comfort, but also the individual taste and personality of its occupants. Find out what trends work best for this space and how you can integrate them into your home today.
Custom Colors
Every kitchen makes a statement, but exactly what kind is up to you; one thing that truly impacts the look and feel of a room is its color. In 2010, kitchens are bolder. The newest color trends show that white and black are back, and green and orange are primary colors. White and black are obviously more neutral shades and allow you to play with more color. If you're looking to paint your walls white, then spice it up by adding patterned curtains to the windows or funky frames to the walls and countertops. For an added accent, try finding a brightly colored painting to serve as a focal point.
Black can be a great color for wall space and if done right, it will look elegant and sexy instead of dark and depressing. A metallic paint that reflects light will make this color pop, especially if the kitchen contains other light-reflecting items such as mirrored appliances or cabinetry. Orange tends to be a warm and inviting color if the right shade is chosen. Be sure to tie it together with neutral cabinets and a rug or counter surface with tiny flecks of similar colors. As for green, a lighter shade such as sea foam with stainless steel cabinets will complement a modern kitchen. Green cabinetry can be offset with dark granite countertops and cream walls.
Material Musts
When it comes to materials, many home owners are moving toward eco-friendly products that are sustainable, durable, and reclaimed or recyclable. Natural stone and other green products are becoming widely popular. As far as countertop spaces, granite may still be the most popular finish requested, but marble, limestone and soapstone are now trendy choices as well. Commonly looked over in the past because they were thought to stain or scratch easily, these countertop options are actually very resilient-especially if homeowners invest in a good sealer.
The modern kitchen typically contains a combination of formaldehyde-free, composite carcass and eco-friendly composite veneer door and drawer fronts. Natural wood finishes are also popular. In addition, consumers are looking for U.S. manufacturers and companies that can produce kitchens that use non-toxic lacquers, laminates, aluminum, glass and certified veneers.
The Sleek Look
A modern kitchen may be simple, open and inviting, excluding all things extraneous. But just because you opt for the clean lines and stainless steel look doesn't mean your kitchen has to be uninspiring. If your kitchen has dark cabinets and cream walls, try adding a bit of texture and extra color by incorporating jewel-toned tiles to the wall above the stove. This will detract from the harsh, business-like look, adding warmth to the space.
If your kitchen is filled with metallic finishes and void of color, try brightening the area by painting a bright hue on the walls or on one set of cabinets. A nice, smart blue with a glossy finish will mesh well with metallic appliance. If you're searching for more warmth, walnut cabinets may do the trick.
Today's kitchen has expanded from its primary function of food preparation to social center of the home. But no two kitchens are ever exactly alike. Find the colors, materials and look that tells your story, then enjoy your special space.
Cornelia Stumpf is a Public Relations Representative for NYLOFT Kitchens & Home Interiors.
