The kitchen truly is the heart of the home. It’s a place where we gather to cook, eat, and connect. It’s the home-office, homework table, charging-station, lunch-box filling multi-purpose centre of every home. So when we think about the future of the kitchen, there’s a lot to consider. In this blog we explore some of the ways that we see kitchens changing in the coming years:
The kitchen is the new living room
The kitchen is no longer just an area we visit a few times throughout the day when we’re hungry. It has truly become the new living room, with elegant counter styling and comfortable seating options. Now more than ever, kitchens are places where friends and family gather to spend quality time together; chatting, laughing, or even having an impromptu dinner party. With today’s kitchens packed with all of the modern creature comforts you would expect in any other room of your home, such as audio/visual systems, refrigerators for outdoor patio areas, custom dining tables and mobile furniture; kitchens are being designed and renovated to be inviting, enjoyable and usable spaces.
Kitchens with fewer walls and more windows
To create the heart of the home even more inviting we see less walls and more natural light. Kitchens are an integral part of modern homes, going far beyond the pure functionality of the past. Many kitchens today are now a place for families to gather together and share meals, for friends to connect over a bottle of wine, and for people to make memories in. As such, we’re finding that most of our renovation clients are opting for open plan kitchens, doing away with walls altogether. This also allows for the use of changeable “zones” i.e. toy/play area, work station, yoga space. With kitchens offering aesthetically pleasing spaces that are also inviting places to socialise and connect, they’re poised to be the gathering place for families for years to come.
Think sustainable materials like bamboo or recycled plastic
As we all strive to do our best for the planet, give some thought to the use of materials in your renovated space. Rather than sticking with tried-and-tested, often cheap (quality and price) kitsets or similar when you renovate, why not consider the vast range of sustainable materials available. Modern cabinetmakers understand this movement, and now offer kitchens made from sustainable materials such as bamboo and recycled plastic. These products not only look great, but they also help reduce strain on our planet’s resources. Not only do they help achieve a more eco-friendly lifestyle, but they also add an attractive flair to kitchens that many other cabinet materials cannot match. Sustainable cabinet materials are becoming increasingly popular with renovators of kitchens and other rooms throughout the home.
And, countertops in recycled glass or stone
When it comes to kitchens, one of the most important features is the countertop. Recycled glass or stone countertops are becoming increasingly popular, transforming ordinary kitchens into chic and trendy while still helping the environment. This look not only feels good but looks great too with beautifully mixed colors and textures. So, no matter if you’re remodeling, redecorating, renovating an old kitchen or starting fresh in a new space, recycled glass and stone countertops can add a modern touch to any home design.
Appliances will be energy-efficient and connected to the internet
Kitchens are becoming smarter by the day with energy-efficient, ‘connected’ appliances out-selling more traditional products. Not only can these devices save homeowners money and energy, but they also give them access to a world of convenience without having to resort to their mobile phone or laptop. Home chefs have access to hands-free pre-programmed recipes and ingredients, and can even ask their connected oven for useful cooking tips. Meanwhile, connected refrigerators help busy people keep track of what ingredients they have on hand and when it’s time to order groceries. Everyone can benefit from these energy-efficient appliances that help kitchens work more efficiently than ever before.
The kitchen will be the heart of the home – Make it your own
The kitchens in our homes are often seen as a refuge and a creative space. They can be the place where delicious meals come together, memories are made, and family is connected. Ultimately, your kitchen should reflect you and your family’s aesthetic while delivering tailored functionality to your way of living. Find ways to express yourself in this important area of your home through the decor, colour or layout. If there’s something you don’t like about your kitchen’s design or style, incorporate changes into your renovation that fit with your decor aesthetic. Make it a place that you’ll look forward to spending time in and creating delicious meals for your friends and family!
In the near future, the kitchen will be the new living room. A renovation focused on an open concept and fewer walls, could transform your kitchen into a popular, multi-functional space that invites togetherness across generations. And by incorporating sustainable materials into your renovation, along with savvy appliances, you’ll be future-proofing your kitchen for years to come.
So why wait? Contact us today to get your kitchen renovation underway!
