Modern kitchens are making use of more than just the traditional wooden cabinets. The latest in kitchen cabinet design consists of a range of materials such as stainless steel, glass, melamine, and engineered wood and laminates. Many of these materials are not only stylish, but also provide excellent durability and greater resistance to scratches, heat, and moisture. Creative shapes and designs are being employed to maximize storage space while creating a unique yet functional kitchen. Kitchen cabinets have also seen great improvements in terms of convenience. Besides hinges for pullout drawers, convenience hardware options for cabinets include additional racks, sliding shelves, and even interior lighting systems to help easily access items kept in the cabinets. Advancement in Kitchen Cabinet Design
Kitchen islands can be the star of the show in a kitchen, especially for spacious kitchens that don't have a need or room for a large dining table. They provide a great opportunity to divide the cooking area from the rest of the living space, and can also be used to provide additional workspace, storage, and even extra seating. The latest in kitchen island design incorporates technology for a fully equipped kitchen. There are options such as a built-in warming drawer, electric or induction stovetop, sink, vents, drawers, and shelves. There is also the option of adding features such as extra electrical outlets, a food warmer, or a breakfast bar. Kitchen Island Innovations
For small kitchens, better utilization of storage space is essential to make the space look bigger. Professional interior designers are now using creative and efficient kitchen storage ideas such as pull-out drawers, in-cabinet dividers, hanging racks, under counter storage, and pull-out shelves. This not only helps in organizing the clutter, but also makes kitchen tasks such as cooking and cleanup an easy job. Popular drawers, shelves, and cabinets come with accessories such as lazy Susans and door-mounted spice racks to expand storage and help keep everything within reach. Better Utilization of Kitchen Storage Space
Gone are the days of the ubiquitous white and gray granite kitchen countertops. Long-lasting alternatives such as quartz, copper, engineered concrete, Latte Stone, and recycled glassstone have become popular. Marble remains the preferred choice due to its beauty and durability. With the modern-day emphasis on eco-friendly living, materials such as bamboo, cork, and FSC-certified wood are also in demand. Above all, stylish wooden countertops are now a must-have in high-end kitchen designs. As the color plays an important role, homeowners are also exploring the possibilities of colored and textured kitchen countertops. Latest Trends in Kitchen Countertops
Today's kitchens are designed with superior appliances that can help streamline the duties of cooking and cleaning. Smart appliances such as dishwashers, refrigerators, and stoves come with features such as programmable settings, smart sensors, and auto-adjustment of temperature and humidity. This allows for exceptional energy efficiency and in-depth customization of your kitchen. Additionally, there are more options available than ever before when it comes to sizes and layouts of ovens and hobs, allowing for an enhanced overall kitchen design. Upgrading to Smarter Kitchen Appliances
Lighting plays an important role in kitchen design, from creating a bright yet soothing atmosphere to emphasizing the features of the area. The trend today is for stylish, yet energy-efficient lighting solutions. LEDs are being used to create a range of looks and moods in the kitchen. Spotlights and task lighting can be used to emphasize the purpose-driven areas such as the kitchen sink and prep space. Additionally, linear and decorative lighting can be used to add a sense of warmth and ambiance. Combined with controls such as dimmers and timers, kitchen lighting can truly set the tone for the entire space. Innovative Kitchen Lighting Solutions
Hinges, handles, and pulls in a kitchen are now being updated to provide a modern look and feel. Hardware design options now range from sleekly clean to textured, with industrial details and metallic accents having become popular. Homeowners can also explore aged patinas, rustic wood grain, and other such options to create an old-world look for their kitchens. Creative combinations of materials such as wood, brass, steel, aluminum, and even iron can be used to provide a touch of personality to the kitchen. Modernizing Kitchen Hardware Options
The success of any kitchen lies in its layout and how it can accommodate the chef and other members of the household. Besides the convenience of cooking, kitchen layouts now consider an even balance of beauty and practicality. Kitchens are being designed with smart zonal divisions that offer flexibility and minimize inconvenience. For those that have an open floor plan, separate zones for cooking, cleaning, and entertaining can be designed for a smooth workflow. Additionally, kitchen islands are being used to divide the workspace and as a gathering spot for friends and family. Optimizing Kitchen Layout Plans
Proper ventilation within a kitchen is essential for having a safe and healthy cooking environment. Homeowners are now choosing from a range of options from the basic range hood to concealed or custom-made ventilation systems. Kitchen islands can also be designed for efficient extraction from above. Airflow is also important to consider for in-built ovens and hotplates with adequate exhaust fans needed to keep temperatures within safe limits. High-end kitchens can also be designed with air purification technology to maintain air quality in the kitchen. Maximizing Kitchen Ventilation Systems
Most kitchen designs today incorporate bright and neutral color combinations that create a refreshing, airy atmosphere. Colored tiles, benchtops, and cabinets are in high demand, allowing homeowners to get creative. For more classic-style kitchens, wood-tone cabinetry helps to bring a sense of warmth. For ultra-modern kitchen designs, high-gloss finishes and reflections of light can be used to add a unique charm. Color choices also depend on the countertop material chosen, available lighting, and the overall look and feel of the kitchen area. Improving Kitchen Color Schemes
The key to making any kitchen an efficient one is the flow of movement throughout the area. This requires placing the cooking station at the right distance from the sink and refrigerator. The best method of cooking, baking, and cleaning can be identified with proper planning. A good kitchen design also takes into account the yet-to-be-included appliances, utensils, and cookware. Any existing furniture in the kitchen such as kitchen carts and islands should also be factored in before the final design is created. Finger- and hand-friendly kitchen designs are now being created for comfortable kitchen tasks. Designing Improved Kitchen Flow