Home » Misc » Future of kitchen design

Future of kitchen design


A Quick Glimpse into Kitchens of the Future

When it comes to high-tech kitchen technology, not much beats this touch-free interactive hob including BabyWatch Webcam. (c) grundig.com

Design Ideas

The tech that will change the way we use future kitchens

What will kitchens of the future look like? It’s easy for one’s imagination to run wild and dream of kitchens that are completely voice operated and cooking your meal with a press of a button. Popular opinion among designers and architects, though, suggests that our kitchens of tomorrow won’t be that much different than they are today.

With the exception of innovative appliances, the basic elements that make up our kitchens will remain; cabinets, pullout garbage and recycling bins, pantry storage and countertops. Homeowners have always wanted materials and features that provide basic function and classic style. And while climate, space and cultural differences influence how every individual’s kitchen will look, there’s a golden thread of familiarity still running through every kitchen style – even in the near future.

So how can we know what a typical future kitchen will look like? We simply need to look at technological trends that are likely to stick. These trends may give us valuable insight into what we can expect from our kitchens of tomorrow. Let’s break down some of the more important kitchen tech trends shaking up the world of kitchen design.

Interactive Cooking Surfaces

Say goodbye to burners. The future of stove cooking, undoubtedly, lies in interactive induction hobs. Induction heating uses magnetic components hidden underneath the cooktop to heat pots and pans. But instead of just heating the bottom of the pot, induction heating heats the entire pot – meaning food is cooked faster and more evenly. Pots and pans can be placed anywhere on the cooking surface, not on one particular heating area. And the tech doesn’t end there either. Overhead, a projector will beam recipes, cooking information and other handy notes straight onto the counter top. Grundig’s VUX technology is already leading the way, and will likely be commonplace in future kitchens before long.

© LOOP Agentur

© LOOP Agentur

© LOOP Agentur

Smart Refrigerators

Some designers and suggest that fridges as we know them will disappear completely in future kitchens. In its place, inductive cooling containers will sit on induction shelves to cool your goods. Simply set the container on an induction cooling table, and food will be chilled in an instant. Not everyone is convinced though.

Manufacturers are making huge strides in facilitating individual cooling zones, so refrigerated goods can be stored at optimal temperatures. Fridges of the future will likely be able to keep track of what’s inside too. While this tech exists already (users have to input their goods into an app one-by-one), fridges of the future will be able to determine what’s inside without any user interaction. This will likely be done through barcode scanners installed inside the fridge, or pressure sensors built into the fridge shelves.

© Agentur Loop

Green Sinks and Dishwashers

If there’s one future kitchen focus that will have the most impact, it’s the emphases on wasting less. Grundig are one step ahead already, but the future of sustainable kitchens are looking bright. Discarded water from sinks and dishwashers, for example, won’t be flushed immediately, but divided into safe and unsafe water to be used to feed plants. Food waste will be composted, and devices of the future will have more functionality in smaller packages.

Porcelain and Quartz Countertops

Most homeowners have very strong opinions when it comes to countertops. And for good reason. I quality surface not only looks good, but is better to work on and easier to clean. Granite and marble have always been popular kitchen counter choices, but it’s the rise of porcelain and quartz stone tops that might give us a clue how kitchens of the future might look.

Engineered quartz is especially popular because it combines the best that man and nature have to offer. It’s made by combining natural quartz and resins to create a top with the same strength of granite, and better impact resistance. It also doesn’t need to be sealed, making it a popular trend in kitchen design lately.

Another material creeping into more and more homes is porcelain. Unlike quartz, porcelain can’t be scratched, burnt or stained. It also doesn’t show fingerprints. So if we’re looking for clues as to what will be the countertop material of choice in the coming years, these two choices are the likely frontrunners.

The future of kitchen design is bright. With constantly evolving technologies and smart additions to our kitchens – even if our kitchens look similar to what it is today, what’s hidden under the hood is a whole new world of possibilities.

Kitchen trends 2023: 50 brand new looks and innovations

(Image credit: Sheraton Interiors / Caz Myers Design / Aker Interiors)

When it comes to the best kitchen trends 2023, it can be a minefield of ideas and designs. We talked to the trend experts to find out which kitchen trends will be big in 2023.

With cool new kitchen brands popping up and lots of innovative design ideas and clever twists on old appliance designs on display in kitchen showrooms across the country, there are plenty of on-trend looks and state-of-the-art appliances to pick from.

Below, we look at the biggest trends and new kitchen ideas and pictures of kitchens to inspire your next kitchen remodel.

1. Welcome with a sociable kitchen

(Image credit: Sheraton Interiors)

Activate the ergonomic benefits of curves to get the party flowing. ‘A rounded island comes into its own when entertaining, especially in open-plan kitchens with multiple entrance/exit points, making it easier for guests to socialize and encouraging smooth transition between spaces,’ says Shehryar Khan, director, Sheraton Interior s. ‘A curved island can also include a more expansive seating area, allowing guests to comfortably eat and socialize around the kitchen island. ’

2. Make your kitchen a multiuse space

(Image credit: Caz Myers Design)

‘When seeking to create a family-friendly hub, it’s great to incorporate a bespoke desk and study area. A quiet but connected space for homework or for everyday home admin,’ says Caz Myers, director of Caz Myers Design . ‘Ensure the desk area ties in seamlessly with the kitchen design by using elements of the same finishes but with a defining twist – here the timber is dominant, for example.’

3. Add smart partitions 

(Image credit: Muchmore Design)

Don’t be afraid to disrupt sightlines in a modern kitchen – not every chef enjoys an audience. Opting for an open partition, like this mid-century-inspired installation by Muchmore Design , is a smart move. ‘Designed to work as a beautiful display as well as a functional room divider, it effectively bridges the feeling of coziness and openness within the contemporary open-plan living space,’ explains founder and creative director, Linsey Skepper.

4. Create unusual shapes for shelving

(Image credit: Aker Interiors)

The kitchen should be a fun, interesting, and wonderful space. Gabrielle Akers of Aker Interiors created original kitchen shelving for this loft dating from 1925. ‘I set out to create something different and unexpected to soften the raw, industrial architecture,’ she says. ‘Introducing curves was paramount to bringing warmth and moments of surprise to the otherwise angular space.'

5. Take a quieter approach to interiors

(Image credit: Adrien Dirand / Joseph Dirand Architecture)

With busy lives, homeowners are now more aware of their decorating choices and are aiming to find a balance between streamlined minimalism and luxury for their kitchens, which is why we will be seeing minimalist kitchen ideas soaring in popularity in 2023. 

Internationally admired for his minimalist designs and monochromatic aesthetic, architect Joseph Dirand has created this elegant black and white kitchen featuring monolithic slabs of Breccia Viola marble. Fingi pendants in patinated bronze by Eric Schmitt introduce a softer line, as do Platner Collection chairs from Knoll.

6. Embrace a wood resurgence 

(Image credit: Mike Fetherston / Darren Chung)

Wood kitchen cabinets are a popular choice for those that love a timeless or classic look, so it comes as no surprise that we will be seeing more and more homeowners look for walnut and oak cabinet kitchen ideas in the near future. 

‘The inspiration for this island was a 1960s slatted screen, owned by the client,’ explains Mike Fetherston, design director, Hetherington Newman . It was handmade using stained strips of walnut and topped with Calacatta Rosato marble.

7. Think about display possibilities 

(Image credit: Polly Wreford )

No space for a dresser? Glazed wall cabinets are just as beautiful and the display possibilities just as strong, albeit on a smaller scale. Steer clear of a fitted-kitchen feel by opting for a standalone unit that’s more focal point than functional storage – perfect for walls without windows. Fill with colorful kitchen ideas, with crockery and artisanal packaging as the mood takes. 

8. Invest in a shapely backsplash

(Image credit: Cullifords / Sean Fennessey)

Why end a kitchen backsplash in a straight, horizontal line when curvaceous silhouettes can prove far more enticing? Here, Australia-based designer Tamsin Johnson cut swooping curves into marble, merging backsplash and cooker hood with striking sinuousness. Also explore tiled backsplash in fish scales and hexagons for simple shape-shifting surfaces.

9. Step up 

Project by Adam Knibb Architects & The Myers Touch

(Image credit: Paul Craig)

Now there’s one more reason to celebrate high ceilings – the library ladder is coming into its own. Seen in all the loftiest kitchens, statement ladders are being embraced in all their vertical glory. ‘A permanent ladder is about so much more than accessible high-level kitchen storage,’ says designer Keith Myers, founder of The Myers Touch . ‘A beautiful ladder provides an interesting, eye-catching feature, while the metal rail introduces a punchy design detail.’

10. Go for pattern play 

Image credit: Martin Moore

(Image credit: Martin Moore)

Traditional kitchens are making a play on directional pattern. Focus on areas such as cupboard interiors and backsplashes, advises Richard Moore of Martin Moore . ‘Used in this way, pattern makes a statement without overwhelming the space or detracting from the timelessness of the cabinetry,’ he says.

11. Decorate with color of the season

(Image credit: Cullifords)

Carrara has competition – the latest natural stones are all about green, the undisputed kitchen color hero for 2023. 

‘There’s a definite trend towards more impactful surface choices and we’re seeing demand soar for nature-inspired shades,’ reports Oliver Webb, director of stone specialist Cullifords. 

‘From Indian marbles to Brazilian granites and even onyx, there’s a huge array of exotic green stones to be explored. ’ The incredible bottle green, khaki and fresh lime tones seen here are courtesy of Cullifords.

12. Bring flooring up-to-date

(Image credit: Gyorgy Korossy)

Those seeking an alternative to herringbone or chevron kitchen flooring should check out mansion weave. Originating in 17th-century French mansions, this pattern is being revived for a new audience. While the latest incarnation shares the same polygons and trapezoids as the original, chunkier plank formats and pale timbers bring it up to date.

13. Introduce mirrored elements

(Image credit: David Mitchell)

An established backsplash favorite, antiqued mirrored glass is making a move onto kitchen cabinet ideas. In this home in Manhattan, David Howell, founder of DHD Architecture and Interior Design , used handblown silvered glass on the wall cabinets to bring the cityscape inside. 

‘The room was set up to focus on the Manhattan views and the mirrored cabinetry was used to create an extended vista,’ he explains. Choosing mirrored glass over transparent also has fringe benefits in the form of concealment – there’s no need to keep contents neat and tidy! 

(Image credit: Jack Trench)

When it comes to bar stools, bespoke maker Jack Trench points to a trend for more intimate perching in the kitchen. 

‘This may be a single or two-stool perching point, or simply a more economically sized breakfast bar,’ says director, Jack Trench . ‘The trend stems from those with kitchen-diners, who are realising they don’t always need extensive breakfast bars in addition to a table. However, they do still want seating within the hub of the kitchen. This is where the kitchen perch comes into its own; informal seating for a quick coffee or checking emails.’

15. Create a lovely look with antique wood

(Image credit: K&H Design)

As part of the trend toward less ‘kitchen-y’ cooking spaces, classical wood kitchen ideas are making a move into the kitchen. ‘Traditional timbers are being embraced in new and unexpected ways,’ says Katie Glaister of K&H Design .  

‘For example, framing a beautifully book-matched kitchen island in burr walnut with aged brass accents recreates the look of an antique bureau but, elevated on legs, it feels less cumbersome and more modern.’

16. Go for glazed tiles

(Image credit: Chris Edwards / Natalia Miyar)

A tiled kitchen backsplash is nothing new, but there will be a shift away from matt finishes and towards gloss. A glazed tile is not just easy to clean – it will also reflect the light around the room, with effective results regardless of the color. 

Interior designer Natalia Miyar has these richly hued green kitchen tiles handmade in Florence. 'Paired with the rustic wood and marble work surfaces, they create a really beautiful contrast with the earthy colors, as well as adding different layers of texture to the space,' she explains. You don't need to use a saturated shade to enjoy the full impact. 

For a more muted look, choose glazed white tiles, which will certainly make the most of the natural light. Zelliges will also remain a popular choice. Handcrafted in Morocco, these distinctive glazed clay tiles, with their irregular surface and varying tones, bring texture and artisan character to a scheme. 

17. Mix vintage with antiques

(Image credit: Simon Brown)

Future kitchen trends are about dispelling any notions of a show home, and introducing some antique or vintage furniture into a kitchen has the immediate effect of creating a warm, lived-in home environment. Farmhouse kitchen furniture in the form of a scrubbed kitchen table or dresser is the obvious choice for a traditional look. Timeless, built to last and often inexpensive to find at vintage fairs, antique pieces will introduce character to a new space. 

This design by Ben Pentreath was a 21st-century take on a Welsh farmhouse kitchen. Simple joinery, including a large larder cupboard and open shelves, combines with a butler's sink, Delft tiles, period-style lighting and antique furniture to create a timeless feel, perfectly in keeping with the house's architectural style.  

18. Break up your space with partitions

(Image credit: Alexander James)

After years of breaking down walls to create large open-plan rooms, over recent times we've come to appreciate the benefits of being able to close the door and escape the soundtrack of the entire house. A glazed partition can split spaces without compromising on light or the feeling of togetherness. It also has the advantage of helping to contain smells in the kitchen area. 

In his own home, Thomas Cox, co-founder of Ham Interiors , replaced the wall between the kitchen and sitting room with a reclaimed Georgian shop front. 'We like to use glazed partitions as they define area and create the illusion of space without having to be fully open plan,' he explains. 'If the existing kitchen layout won't allow for a fully glazed wall then a smaller glazed panel can enhance a space; it offers architectural interest and is also useful in providing a backdrop for a piece of furniture.'

(Image credit: Lucy Call)

While they are generally considered something of a necessary evil in the UK, the American approach to extractor hoods has long been more celebratory, with custom-made designs in unusual finishes making strong and defining statements in kitchens across the land. This kitchen trend looks set to take off in a big way, too, especially in eye-catching metal surfaces. 

'Aesthetically, adding a striking extractor canopy to a kitchen scheme is a chance to interrupt with shape and sculpture all the angular lines of cabinets and panels,' says Bruce Hodgson of Somerset-based Artichoke Ltd . 'This etched zinc extractor canopy is made using specialist crafts and traditional materials, throwing a spotlight on our handmade values as well as a nod to the past.

20. Focus on layered lighting

(Image credit: Eric Piasecki)

Lighting in a kitchen is always a challenge to get right but the art of layering will be key to designing kitchens successfully going forward. The reality is you only need a certain amount of task lighting in specific preparation areas, too many downlighters and the kitchen ceiling ends up looking rather like a landing strip. 

New York-based Steven Gambrel Inc. is known for its sophisticated interiors. Having originally trained as an architect, he's a master at considering how kitchen lighting, kitchen layout, and functionality create a sense of place in a room. In this family kitchen for a recently built beach house in East Hampton, Long Island, he's made a feature of the lighting, introducing two sets of bold pendants. In a large, open-plan kitchen space, choosing two such different designs adds character but also helps define the distinctive areas within the room. 

(Image credit: Matthew Williams)

With so much going on in kitchens, the risk of a visual overload is always high. Those searching for a more restrained look will need to focus on colors, which should be kept simple, and thinking about leaving wall space bare. 

In this design for a house in Hudson, New York, by General Assembly, a single shelf has been used in place of wall-hung kitchen cabinets resulting in a relaxed and unfussy look. 'We grouped a full-height pantry with the fridge to give us the possibility of removing upper storage,' explains Colin Stief. 'The shelf is used in the place of cupboards to give the concrete backsplash a place to end and a visual break to the monochromatic scheme. ' As always, when working with open kitchen storage, a curated display is essential. Some designers choose to use a single open shelf for artwork rather than kitchenalia to elevate the room. 

22. Evoke nature with natural elements

(Image credit: Victoria Pearson)

The use of natural materials has increased considerably during the pandemic and will strengthen in appeal as marble, granite and unpainted wood kitchen cabinets become a firm fixture. Not only do they have a rich aesthetic quality, but they are increasingly being recognized for their health benefits (reducing the amount of chemically treated items in the home). 

With this beautiful design, Californian decorator Ohara Davies-Geatano of ODG Interiors demonstrates how the materials add warmth and depth to a kitchen. 'The cabinetry is cerused oak, which is incredibly durable and provides wonderful texture,' she says. 'I love how the timber highlights the depth of the limestone backsplash. The basket-style pendants introduce another layer – their scale gives great balance to the overall design. As the materiality of the space is so tonal, the addition of the floating wood shelves enabled moments of curation.'

23. Keep storage concealed

(Image credit: Future)

Small space living gives way to even more kitchen innovation, like the small kitchen above. This chic open-plan space conceals the cooking area with chameleon-like skill, allowing the focus to be on entertaining. 

Maximize the feeling of spaciousness by uniting cooking, dining and relaxing into one glorious, light-filled room. Here an uninviting and small kitchen was demolished 
in favour of a big living room with the kitchen tucked discreetly at one end. 

The layout is flexible so it transitions from a kitchen to a dining room to 
a living area in an effortless way. The cooking space is as invisible as possible, with door panels looking like decorative wall finishings. 

All doors are hidden, with fingerprint sensors that allow them to open and close in a smooth a manner.

24.

Introduce mesh details

(Image credit: Davonport)

Bespoke kitchen specialist Davonport has added a burnished wire mesh cupboard door to its design portfolio. Teamed with diamond-cut brass handles, the look makes for a sophisticated twist on industrial style. 

25. Use materials in surprising ways

(Image credit: Quirky Interiors)

Theres something free-ing about having a kitchen that doesn't feel 'off the shelf'. Even if some elements like cabinetry and appliances need to be standardized, think about adding character with practical elements sourced elsewhere. 

This sink area features a rustic shelf to display pottery and a narrow geometric backsplash made of brass sits behind, creating an unusual vignette and wall decor for the kitchen.

26. Be brave with color contrasts

(Image credit: DeVOL)

Picking two shades on opposite sides of the color wheel, like pink and green, will achieve bold contrasts. Here the Classic English kitchen by deVOL is painted in a Farrow & Ball green and a custom pink.  

(Image credit: Future)

Bright white kitchens contrast with rich timbers and soft curves to lend a modern mid-century flair to modern kitchens. 

Dark walnut cabinetry works to keep the look simple with smart bespoke detailing. Tall white cabinets and light marble backsplashes and countertops draw the eye up creating an illusion of space, keeping the look fresh and of the moment.

28. Embrace the sink skirt revival

(Image credit: Beata Heuman)

Once considered outdated and frumpy, the sink skirt is back in fashion creating opportunity for texture and pattern, softening kitchen schemes and adding a touch of nostalgia. 

The idea is based around replacing the base cabinet doors underneath the sink with pleated curtains, often suspended on a decorative rod. Here is an opportunity for an element that can be updated often – on trend gingham, tactile untreated linen or pale pink stripes amongst bold colors like Beata Heuman .

29. Marvel at marble 

(Image credit: Blakes London)

It’s the time of strongly veined marble, the busier the better for unmissable luxury and next-level style. If there’s one thing that’s storming the style charts and shaking up interiors, it’s the return of marble.

As an architect Natalia Miyar has a great passion for materiality and uses the finest, high quality materials in her design schemes. She says ‘heavily veined marble is making a significant comeback in the design world and has become synonymous with high-end luxury.’ A popular choice for kitchens and bathrooms, it is also highly sustainable; its durability, classic attributes and ability to withstand passing trends makes it a good investment and good choice for kitchen flooring.

Marbles with naturally strong veining add statement value and create a textural contract between other polished surfaces, metals and woods. Within a kitchen, Natalia uses marble to create an eye-catching sink or a kitchen island.

30. Wow with wood finishes

(Image credit: Caesarstone)

Out of fashion for a while, wood is now enjoying a bit of a revival. These kitchen cabinets use subtle-grained ash, paler than oak or walnut, to pick out the warm tones in manmade stone.

31. Dramatize with black

(Image credit: Neptune)

Black kitchen ideas are having something of a moment. Often overlooked as purely an 'accent' color, black walls, cabinetry and work surfaces are having something of a moment. Black becomes liveable, luxe and inviting, with textured woods adding rustic, homely charm.

32. Curate with color

(Image credit: Martin Moore)

Throw the rulebook out of the window in favor of unexpected paint-color pairings. Kitchens are rife with color opportunities, from appliances and flooring, to window treatments, kitchen tile ideas and cabinets.

Start by deciding how much of a permanent commitment you are willing to make. One of easiest and least expensive options is to change your kitchen styling or paint a wall because either can be easily updated should you tire of it. Choosing color is such a personal experience. In fact, no one knows for sure whether we all even see the myriad shades in the same way.

Mark Wilkinson, founder of Mark Wilkinson Furniture, believes that the colors we choose automatically are naturally influenced by current fashions. 'The color in a kitchen – be it on walls or fittings – should last for at least five years, minimum, so try to look beyond immediate trends and choose a kitchen color scheme that will keep you feeling good long term,' he advises.

(Image credit: Original BTC)

Far from the drama of what you would expect from 'statement' lighting, the latest collection of pendants from Original BTC are quietly show-stopping. The Drop series follows the journey of a droplet of water through the air and this bone china light captures the moment when it flattens as it hits the ground. 

Designed 20 years ago, it was initially pulled from the range because it proved too technically challenging to make. But, thanks 
to new developments, it has finally made a long-awaited appearance. 

34. Double up with your islands

(Image credit: Kitchen Architecture)

With the move towards larger kitchens, in open plan spaces, the kitchen island has become an essential kitchen feature. New double kitchen island ideas, such as opting for a pair of island units, has become the last work in luxury - an expansive addition for when space is no object.

(Image credit: Future PLC and David Lovatti)

The latest modern designs are all about multi-tasking, free-flowing designs with a paired-back look. Technological advances in push-open and close doors mean that it has become possible to dispense with handles in both wall and base cabinets. 

If you prefer not to have push-open cupboards, then recessed handles provide the same sleek look and can be lined with contrasting colors and materials to add interest.

'Handleless kitchen cabinets are one of the biggest trends for 2023 for a more pared-back, streamlined look. It’s all about simplicity and a focus on cabinetry details,' explains Busola Evans, Kitchen and Bathroom Supplement Editor.

36. Create a space for a pantry

(Image credit: Harvey Jones)

Pantry cupboards have been kitchen staples for centuries. In the last few years, pantry ideas such as pantry cupboards have established themselves as one of the must-have items in modern homes.

'Having a pantry makes perfect sense. All the food goods are in one place and not scattered around in numerous wall cupboards, meaning people can be more organized when doing their food shopping.

'The other great advantage of a larder and its storage capacity is that a kitchen no longer needs to be full of wall cupboards. It frees up entire walls to either be left free or have an attractive piece of artwork in the kitchen which in turn helps it feel less like a kitchen and instead more of a relaxed environment, perfect for open plan living areas,' says Leisha Norman, Designer, Harvey Jones.

37. Make room for two

(Image credit: LochAnna Kitchens)

'The trend for clever storage continues to be a key design choice due to the practicality it offers,' says Paul Jenkinson, founder and managing director of British kitchen brand LochAnna Kitchens . 'From bi-fold dressers to tower and corner larders, storage can be both a design and practical trend. 

'Storage is and will continue to be, a big part of the kitchen space. For those with smaller kitchens, the need for clever kitchen storage ideas in this space is crucial in terms of efficiently utilizing the room you have. 

'In bigger, minimalist kitchens, clever storage allows for clutter to be easily tidied away. Many homeowners are adding more storage solutions into their kitchens as a way of storing their office supplies as they adapt to working from home indefinitely.'

38. Choose a dark wood

(Image credit: Charles Yorke)

We have recently seen a rise in walnut cabinetry. It’s rich, dark color, fine grain and natural warmth are prized by makers for its feeling of instant luxury.

39. Shine with gold

(Image credit: Grohe)

Now that faucets are available in a wide choice of colors and finishes, sinks are following too, and shouldn't drive up the average cost of a new kitchen too much. Aesthetics have made an impact in wet areas just as they have in furniture and appliance design, with color, shape, size and material heavily influenced by the overall look of the room.

'Sinks have moved up on the scale of importance in kitchen design,' says Joan Fraser, product development and training manager for Smeg. 'Models are introduced to meet customers’ demands for a sink which, in addition to being purely functional, also makes a definitive style statement.'

40. Enhance a kitchen with metallic features

(Image credit: Ledbury Studio)

A by-product of metallics in the kitchen comes the demand for well-executed quality materials that don’t just look good, but have integrity, too. 'That’s why I decided against metallic finishes sprayed onto wood, in favor of real metals that I could work with sensitively to bring out their natural beauty’, says Charlie Smallbone. 

The founder of iconic brand Smallbone of Devizes and Ledbury Studio, Charlie has been pushing the boundaries of kitchen design for over 40 years.

41. Go for a fully curated design

(Image credit: British Standard)

As pride in interior styling takes center stage, we have witnessed an increase in sales of glazed cupboards and opening shelving, following a growing demand for kitchens designed for a ‘curated’ look. 

Thoughtfully designed, these visual spaces are carefully styled with artworks, decorative ceramics, cookery books and other curiosities, to achieve an instant lived in look – adding personality and resulting in a space that feels homely.

'In an age of uncertainty and with busy digital lives, people are increasingly nostalgic for a space to slow down and surround themselves with the comfort and security of tactile items and personal treasures. We are moving away from hiding everything away in cupboards, instead drawing inspiration from displays of china and silverware in glazed cabinets and on shelving, racks and dressers of grand houses – the end result sitting between the maximalist and minimalist styles,' says Merlin Wright, Design Director at British Standard and Plain English .

42. Put appliances in drawers

(Image credit: Fisher & Paykel)

This isn't so much a new innovation – Fisher & Paykel introduced its first DishDrawer™ 20 years ago. However, as we become more interested in the ergonomics of our kitchens – and more of us suffer back problems – these innovative appliances will become more popular. 

Fisher & Paykel’s DishDrawer™ and CoolDrawer™ provide an array of functions that make life easier. When placed at bench height, the need to bend down is significantly reduced and there is no longer a need for you to get on your knees to fill the salt, rinse aid or detergent – it is as easy to open as a normal drawer.

43. Embrace the trend for 'broken-plan' living

(Image credit: British Standard)

Set to define the next decade, zoning will replace open-plan when planning a kitchen in 2022 and beyond. The new phenomenon is being referred to as ‘broken-plan’. Retaining the spacious feel of an open plan design, the trend employs the use of screens, freestanding furniture, cabinetry and house plants to create distinct zones and nest-like nooks intended for cooking, relaxing and entertaining.

44. Make space for a mudroom

(Image credit: British Standard)

Ancillary spaces – we mean functional but thoughtfully considered utility, pantry, larder and mudrooms – provide the perfect space in which to house everyday essentials away from the main kitchen. Ancillary spaces and larder cupboards have become the ultimate status symbol and are fast becoming number one on kitchen wish lists. 

‘Having a utility room has become a status symbol. Coupled with the current trend for neat and tidy spaces and zealous cleaning, it provides a much-needed dedicated housekeeping area,’ says Design Director at British Standard and Plain English, Merlin Wright.

45. Paint your kitchen

(Image credit: Future / Richard Gadsby)

The year 2022 saw the revival of hand-painted kitchens – and this kitchen trend continues into 2022. 'They wear well, age even better and continue to be repairable in ways that a factory-applied laminate cannot match,' says Ledbury Studio founder, Charlie Smallbone. 'From this point of view, hand painting is also more ecologically sound.'

One of the most appealing and varied finishes for kitchen cabinetry, paint lends itself to both the classic looks of the traditional kitchen and to crisply modern linear designs. 

The advantage is in its almost limitless choice of colors, allowing you free rein to express yourself, whether your home is period or contemporary, country or urban. And you can always re-paint if you want a change or update in the future. 

46. Add intrigue to the ceiling

(Image credit: The Shaker Workshop/Maple Photo)

Our feature on Instagram kitchen trends looked into what was trending on social media for kitchens. Unsurprisingly, kitchen islands came out tops, but the next searched term was 'pendant lights'. 

More than just a practical addition, kitchen pendant lighting is a decorative feature over worktop spaces, too.

'Lighting is key to any kitchen design scheme,' comments Sarah Davies of Floella Interiors. 'My advice would be: be open to exploring different pendant kitchen lighting. For example, grouping multiple pendants to add drama to the kitchen.'

47. Decorate with retro fittings 

(Image credit: Colin Poole)

Design styles from the past will be making a comeback – but with a new, contemporary spin. Inspired by the painted kitchen of thirty years ago, Ledbury Studio are reinterpreting paint finishes and wood tints to sit beautifully alongside more modern kitchen designs.

48. Mix materials for instant interest

(Image credit: Ledbury Studio)

Contrast is king when it comes to mixing materials; the trick is to make sure that every material used encourages the others to really sing. 

Brass and steel married with marble and dark timbers prove a winning formula in this luxurious and vibrant family kitchen by Ledbury Studio . 

'Use a fusion of tactile materials to achieve a confident blending of styles,' advises architect Natalia Miyar. 'Marble, wood and metallics complement each other well with different shades of wood and metal often bringing warmth and contrast to a cold marble surface. 

'Using contrasting materials for different worktops within a kitchen naturally creates different zones within a room, not only making a space more practical but aesthetically creates a visually pleasing and harmonious space to live in.'

49. Layer tones and texture in white kitchens

(Image credit: Classic English Kitchen by deVOL)

There are many good reasons why white kitchens are so enduringly popular: white is calm, neat, minimal and light-enhancing – all must-have qualities in a space that's increasingly busy (and sometimes somewhat chaotic). 

White is also so easy to change up: 'white cabinets are great for giving you that fresh clean minimal look but are also a great backdrop for layering up color and texture,' says Sarah Davies of Floella Interiors.

And, of course, white kitchens are the most likely to please potential buyers, should you decide it's time to move on.

50. Make a feature of bare walls

(Image credit: Future)

Over 122,000 of us have tagged our floating shelves on Instagram – at our last count. Not only are they practical, but they are the perfect spot to show off your most attractive kitchen accessories, making your kitchen feel more like a living space than a cooking space.

Arabella is a freelance journalist writing for national newspapers, magazines and websites including Homes & Gardens, Country Life, The Telegraph and The Times. For many years she has specialized in writing about property and interiors, but she began her career in the early 2000s working on the newly launched Country Life website, covering anything from competitions to find the nation’s prettiest vicarage to the plight of rural post offices. 

Houzz Study: Kitchen Design of the Future - Chosen by Readers in 11 Countries

Global kitchen design trends popular with everyday people. What exactly do we do in our kitchens during the renovation?

What will the kitchen of the future look like? To answer this question, it’s enough just to find out the opinion of people who are currently renovating their own kitchens. Homeowners in 11 countries - the US, Canada, UK, Ireland, France, Germany, Russia, Spain, Sweden and Denmark - took part in our annual survey. nine0005

It turned out that 41% of the respondents renovate kitchens that are between 16 and 30 years old. Of the 10,000 respondents to Houzz's latest kitchen renovation survey, 85% completed their renovation in 2015 or are currently renovating their kitchen; the rest are planning to launch in the first months of 2016, which means that their choice of layout, materials, furniture and accessories just shows the very trends that will be relevant in the near future.

mo+ architekten

But don't expect that we are now presenting a fountain of technical innovations in the style of science fiction films. Of course, in modern farms there are a couple of smart devices, but otherwise, people equip their lives not in order to impress NASA. With the exception of TVs and tablets, in all countries, users who participated in the study showed little interest in technical innovations.

"Programming an oven via iPhone is not something people do every day, and they're not particularly impressed with refrigerators that send defrost reminder messages to their phones," says Ken Burghardt, owner of Domicile San Francisco. Far more people care about materials and details that add functionality, as well as all sorts of attributes of a classic style. nine0005

The local climate and the size of the room largely determine the appearance of the kitchen, but the cultural influence is also of great importance. For example, if you enter a kitchen in Spain, you are more likely than any other country in our study to see a built-in coffee machine and a wine pantry adjoining the kitchen. Almost one in four Spaniards is going to install a coffee machine or thermo pot in their kitchen, and about 10% plan to allocate a separate room for storing wine.

But, for the most part, the cuisines from all the countries studied are similar. It seems that all homeowners want to see white cabinets, pull-out baskets or trash bins in their kitchen, allocate more space for food storage and buy new countertops, appliances, furniture. In fact, everything is new!

Design Squared Architects

Give me an "P"
The arrangement of kitchen tables and household appliances sets a certain type of human behavior in the kitchen. Of course, this is a matter of preference and often depends on the original layout and how much time and money you are willing to devote to changing it. nine0005

U-shaped kitchens (pictured) are the most popular layout in the US, Canada, UK and Germany, according to a survey. British designer Konrad Hendrik of LWK Kitchens says history plays a significant role in kitchen layouts. “If you're not going to deliberately change the location of the walls, then your layout will be determined by the architecture of the house,” he says. “And since elements of Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian architecture are repeated in many modern homes, it appears that these historic styles continue to influence kitchen design in the UK. In other words, in most cases, you automatically get a U-shaped kitchen. nine0005

Even if historical influence is not taken into account, many people choose the U-shaped floor plan themselves. According to Konrad, it is she who gives the maximum work surfaces and storage space. “This kitchen is functional and easy to use, because all the zones in it are located close to each other, just a couple of steps away,” he says.

Inna Velichko

L-shaped layout
Predominant in all other countries except Denmark, where homeowners prefer the so-called "linear kitchen", in which work areas are located in one row or two rows opposite each other. nine0005

In Russia, most people arrange furniture in an L-shape (as in the photo). Designer Andrey Maksimov-Pavlychev says that people's choice is largely influenced by the mentality of small spaces and nostalgia for the times when all kitchens were small. Most likely, in the future, the Russians will give preference to just such a layout.

“Our people have always lived in tiny apartments, so they try their best to make the kitchen take up less space,” he says. - L-shaped arrangement allows you to place all the necessary furniture and household appliances as compactly as possible. Even as people move into larger apartments, the memories drive them to put furniture in a corner when they could easily afford a kitchen island or any other layout.” nine0005

キッチンハウス

New interpretations
Although Japanese users were not included in the study, we contacted Houzz Japan Editor-in-Chief Atsuko Tamura and asked her about the current kitchen trends in her country. She said that one of the most popular layouts in Japan is something like an open linear kitchen. It is based on several working areas located at different levels and a dining table, which adjoin each other, forming a kind of sculptural cascade. The experts are of the same opinion. nine0023
“It's practical, with this arrangement it is convenient to serve ready-made meals on the table, and at the same time, the dining table itself can be turned around if you invite guests, for example. Both the layout and the scenario of the dinner will change,” says Toshiyuki Imai, manager of the Japanese kitchen company Kitchen House.

Designers around the world have responded to this trend by interpreting Japanese cuisine in their own way. Recently, architect Kengo Kuma and Kitchen House designed and launched a kitchen island combined with a dining table (pictured). “This kitchen combines modern design and technology with primitive materials such as bamboo plywood, black steel frame construction, and cast aluminum,” says Toshiyuki. nine0005

Omicron Granite & Tile

Ceramic and Composite Quartz Highlight
The countertop is one of the top changes homeowners want to see in their kitchens. And although granite still retains its popularity due to its excellent appearance and despite the difficulty in maintaining, other materials are increasingly attracting attention.

George Lizak, owner of California-based Kerrock Countertops, says there's been a recent surge in demand for so-called composite or engineered quartz. “It gets ordered more than granite,” he says. This stuff is 97% consists of quartz chips and 3% of polymer resin. It is thanks to the resin that the surface is non-porous and does not need additional sealing, like, for example, granite. Over the past year, engineered quartz has been the number one countertop material not only in the US, but also in Canada, Ireland, Spain and Australia.

However, not everyone is happy with this new composite. Ken Burghardt of Domicile San Francisco says he's had to remove and replace the quartz countertops he installed a few years ago on numerous occasions lately. “People don't like them,” he says. - Many people seem to eventually become disillusioned with the matte surfaces that are now flooding the market. Fingerprints on them are visible no less than on gloss, and dirt is much more noticeable. nine0005

But the Spanish composite material Neolith based on ceramics (pictured - imitation of Carrara marble) is gaining more and more popularity. “Unlike engineered quartz, this material can be scratched, ignited, and smudged all you want,” says Ken Burghardt. - He does not care a straw".

NEOLITH by TheSize

Ken says that when demonstrating Neolith properties in his showroom, he scratches the surface with a screwdriver until sparks appear. “No trace,” he says. Then he tries to light it with a burner: “First we fry the creme brulee until brown, and then we point the burner at the countertop. No cracks or discoloration. We pour red wine, chili oil, rub in blueberry jam - nothing happens. And I never have stocks of this material, each batch is sold out instantly. nine0005

In Japan, artificial stone is also giving way to materials based on quartz and ceramics. “Next year’s orders are led by wear-resistant ceramic panels (pictured), which were originally developed as a facade material,” says Kitchen House’s Toshiyuki.

Stainless steel is also a popular countertop material in Japan. In an informal survey by Houzz in Japan, steel was the number one choice for countertop materials. “People prefer it to create a clean, minimalist look,” says Toshiyuki Imai. “And, of course, because steel is a durable and heat-resistant material.” nine0005

ROM architecture studio

Structures and fixtures
Once people have taken care of the essentials of a kitchen—cupboards, countertops, faucets, sinks, fixtures, appliances, and wall color—many, with a budget, start thinking about custom designs and devices designed to make life easier. In the kitchens of the future, be prepared to see additional pantries, islands and breakfast stands. But each country has its own preferences that may surprise you. nine0005

A recent discussion about special wishes in the kitchen sheds light on what Houzz users dream about. The most frequently mentioned were induction cookers, charging stations for electrical appliances, retractable sockets, vacuum cleaners hidden under the baseboard, built-in pet feeders, ovens with hinged doors (pictured), and drawers instead of shelves in floor cabinets.

There were also some extravagant wishes. “I want a sexy man in my kitchen who washes dishes, cooks and takes out the trash,” says American Brandi Nash Hicks. But Sarah Haubert showed ingenuity and shared her truly brilliant idea. In a house being built for her family, she asked to bring the hood motor to the street. “Now, even when the hood is running at full power, I cook in absolute silence,” she says. “No kidding, this is one of my favorite features of my new home.” nine0005

VelezCarrascoArquitecto

Hoods
In many countries, home owners pay special attention to hoods, which, according to the Spanish architect Oskar Velez, have become more powerful and changed a lot in recent years. “All good parties end in the kitchen,” he says. “Some people are worried about the smell of food, but these days there are very powerful and beautiful hoods that can be built even into the ceiling, so the smell of cooking in the kitchen is not a problem today, unless your diet consists of one hundred percent fried foods.” . In the photo you see one of the kitchens designed by Oscar, with built-in ceiling hoods. nine0005

BMLMedia.ie

Wood-burning Stoves
Step into a kitchen in Sweden, the UK or Ireland - countries that often get wet and cold - and you're more likely to hear the crackle of a wood-burning stove like the one in as seen in the picture of this kitchen in Dublin.

“Amid ever-increasing energy prices, people in the UK and Ireland are increasingly buying wood-burning stoves because they are cheaper to maintain than gas or electric stoves,” says London-based designer Conrad of LWK Kitchens. - Some types of wood stoves also meet the requirements of the government's new Renewable Heat Incentive program. Wood-burning stoves made of cast iron retain heat much longer, which is very important during those long winter nights when you want to warm up. In addition to being functional and energy efficient, wood stoves are also popular because of the visual impact they create in the living room or kitchen. Agree, a live fire always attracts the eye. nine0005

Frederikke Aagaard Design Studio

Neutral leads the way, but then comes green
White tops the list of preferred colors for kitchen furniture, walls and even backsplashes. But this is not only because people are shy about expressive colors. The absence of any color also serves a practical purpose.

“We need white to reflect even the minimal sunlight that comes in through the windows during the long, dark winters. In general, natural light always leaves a lot to be desired, so any light reflection is important,” says Allan Torp, lifestyle expert for Bungalow5 in Copenhagen. “White helps the kitchen look bright and clean and doesn’t leave you depressed when summer ends.” nine0005

Sarah Stacey Interior Design

Americans and Canadians also often choose neutral colors for the kitchen. According to the survey, the most common combination is white furniture against beige or gray walls. But mint green (as in the photo) and light blue begin to gradually creep into the kitchen. “I think green will eventually replace blue because of the two colors, green is the more organic and appetizing,” says Jennifer Ott, interior designer and paint specialist. nine0005

“Besides, it's so fashionable to eat natural, healthy food now that people are attracted to natural shades in the interior,” she adds. But I also have another theory. We live in a world full of stress and excitement, and green is the color of harmony and happiness, in contrast to the same blue and gray. Yes, this is not such an energetically saturated color as yellow and orange, but this is its main advantage. Green is the perfect compromise between joy and serenity."

In Japan, home owners also said goodbye to all-white kitchens. “White kitchens were at the peak of popularity for 10 years until 2010,” says Yukiko Tahara, founder and designer of Tokyo-based LiB contents. “Since then, more and more people are choosing dark shades, like gray or dark brown. I heard that this happened after the 2011 earthquake, when people without exception began to prefer calm, peaceful and relaxing colors in the interior.” nine0005

Mariette Barsoum of Divine Design+Build says our hectic, hectic lifestyle is a major factor in choosing neutrals for the home, so we should expect a return to our kitchens in the near future. “Life is too busy and too stressful,” says Marietta. “So we all want to come home and relax.”

SEE ALSO…
Houzz Study: What Russians Really Do When Renovating a Kitchen

RELATED ARTICLES…
Kitchens | Bathrooms | Baby | Bedrooms | Living rooms | Canteens | hallways | Cabinets | Dressing rooms | Balconies and loggias | Project of the week

Interesting design solutions for the kitchens of the future

You may be interested to know about the plans of the developers of household appliances for kitchens. Each of us read in childhood the works of famous science fiction writers. And we were amazed that the devices described in them decades ago appeared soon in our lives. nine0005

As if the authors themselves were time travelers and took their ideas from what they saw in real life. We will not delve into examples of complex instruments for exploring space or the depths of the ocean, but let's see what developers of home appliances can offer us.

The most interesting thing in terms of getting acquainted with such novelties is to visit thematic exhibitions. One of these is CES-2013, which took place in January in Las Vegas, USA. The experts participating in it presented many options for improved technology, as well as a whole bunch of completely new proposals. A fresh look at the synthesis of design art and innovative technologies simply amazed visitors. nine0005

Samsung is one of the leaders in the development and production of home appliances. Their ME179KFETSR is an extraordinary oven with microwave, grill, extractor, toaster and convection oven functions! A sort of combine, the dream of buyers whose kitchens are small enough in area to carefully consider the presence and placement of appliances.

The Samsung Dual Cook oven is available for large families. This miracle of technology can cook two dishes at the same time, where each chamber will have a different temperature. This means that you can cook a sweet cake and bake meat without fear that their smells will mix or something will burn. nine0005

But these are not all the novelties from Samsung, but only a small part, awarded by the organizers. The exhibition IFA-2013, which was held in Berlin, Germany, also deserves attention. AEG-Electrolux excelled here.

Their ProClean XXL dishwasher is also designed for a large family, because it can load 15 place settings at the same time. What is a kit? This includes: flat and deep plates, as well as a dessert plate, a saucer and a cup, a fork, 2 spoons (table, dessert and tea) and a knife. Impressive, isn't it? And if you consider that the dimensions of the car do not exceed 60 cm, then this seems like a miracle! nine0005

AEG ProCombi Sous Vide Multi-Dampfgarer - oven. But very unusual. This technique can cook everything you love in… vacuum bags! Marvelous? Yes, especially when you consider that this retains much more nutrients than conventional frying or baking, and the dishes are tastier.

Another interesting feature of this oven is that it has its own vacuum cleaner! Therefore, a few seconds will be enough to pack the dish, and the result will exceed all your expectations. nine0005

From LG we saw a unique technological novelty Smart Diagnosis, which can be used with a range of household appliances. For example, with built-in dishwashers of a new type.

If you have a malfunction, you can carry out diagnostics using a special application for smartphones and tablets without referring to paper instructions.

If the problem cannot be solved in this way, the device generates a special signal that is written to the device. It can be sent to the appropriate service center. Convenient, isn't it? nine0005

Some brands have focused on design nuances.

Learn more