KITCHEN TRENDS 2013
Q. Looking to 2013, what are some of the upcoming trends in kitchens?
A. The kitchen is the place to be in the New Year, as people now spend the majority of their home lives in the heart of the house. The kitchen is a family-orientated space personal to the family who spend their time there. For those looking at updating their kitchen as a new year’s resolution, there are some trends you should know about that could elevate your new or existing kitchen from good to great.
Contemporary look
The contemporary look takes elements that have been popular in kitchens for some time. The trick is to put them all together in one place. Stainless steel appliances, environmentally-friendly recycling facilities and splashes of color will give your kitchen a look of style. These days it’s easy to find ideas online to become familiar with the modern look you want.
Country living
How does one introduce the country-feel into a city kitchen? Simple, use the tried and tested ‘country living’ look. Think cast iron sinks, brass fixtures, plenty of dried flowers and some aluminum signs from the local garden centre or craft shop.
The ‘Masterchef’
Cooking shows have never been more popular. In fact, one could watch a different celebrity chef every night of the week. No doubt the craze will continue into the New Year, and home kitchens are set to follow. Watch the trend for large surfaces, spacious islands and as much space as possible, for home chefs looking to take their kitchen to the premier level.
Soft lighting
Kitchens are now the meeting place for family and friends in most homes, which means that a spotlight in the middle of the room just doesn’t cut it these days. Add ambient lighting in the form of lamps, down lighting and LED bulbs hidden below cabinets to add the homey touch.
Social Focus
2013 continues the trend we’ve been seeing in the last few years where kitchens need to be more than just functional. They must be both appealing and nourishing socially. Families are opting to lose the dining room table and gather around a large kitchen island instead for dinner and entertaining.