If you're looking to make a considerable kitchen design statement in 2020, look no further than two-tone kitchens. Instead of a one-color-fits-all approach, why not try a two-tone look, with one color on your wall cabinets and a different color on your base cabinets. Or mix and match the color of your appliances for a smorgasbord of hues. Be bold and opt for an unexpected color pairing, such as navy and blush pink or black and navy. As you would expect, the use of luxury materials is especially popular when it comes to two-tone kitchen design. Use materials such as venetian plaster, marble slabs, textured cement, stainless steel, vibrant tile or jewel-toned acrylic to create a truly unique vibe.Two-Tone Kitchens
Open shelving has become increasingly popular in kitchen design over the past year, with an appreciation for its minimalist attitude and ability to open up living spaces. While there are loads of great design possibilities when it comes to open shelving, take the time to consider what items deserve a prominent place in your kitchen – prettied-up pantry staples, luxe-looking cookbooks or glittering glassware – and what can stay tucked away behind closed cabinet doors. Built-in banquettes are another popular kitchen space saver, with multiple uses from extra seating to overflow food prep surfaces. For a little character, have the banquette crafted out of wood or tile for a wonderful change from the usual sleek granite countertops. Open Shelving & Built-In Banquettes
Creating a moment of surprise and delight in the kitchen can lift its atmosphere and make it look extra special. Emerging trends in kitchen design are sure to inspire with a bold range of statement backsplashes and range hoods. Whether you choose an all-over patterned tile, intricate mosaic or deep, dark blue subway tiles, a statement backsplash that stands out can bring a surprising sense of character to the kitchen. Range hoods are equally dynamic in kitchen design, as there is now a range of styles and materials available. Opt for the luxurious look with a range hood made out of stainless steel, brass, bronze, solid wood or even glazed tile.Statement Backsplashes & Range Hoods
This year we’re seeing a spate of appliances designed for the express purpose of blending in with kitchen cabinetry, enabling a sleeker look and enhancing design continuity. Introducing concealed appliances into your kitchen design can be a great way to hide extra clutter and keep your kitchen looking clean and stylish. This could be anything from refrigerator drawers to built-in coffee makers or a wrap-around pantry featuring a pull-out refrigerator. The benefit of concealed appliances is that it creates a much more organized look by hiding away those kitchen necessities. Not only does this make a practical design decision but it can also be aesthetically pleasing. Concealed Appliances
More and more of us are turning to a sustainable lifestyle these days, so it makes sense that we’d also adopt sustainable approaches to kitchen design. Sustainability is now a major focus for kitchen appliances, with many brands offering energy saving features such as winter-proofing and more efficient settings. When it comes to materials, look for low-emission materials such as slate, bamboo, cork, concrete and reclaimed wood for countertop, flooring and cabinetry. Additionally, LED lighting, rainwater harvesting and smart irrigation technologies can help you further reduce your kitchen’s environmental impact. Environmental Initiatives & Sustainability
Integrating your kitchen with the latest tech gadgets is a great way to customize your culinary experience and take your kitchen design to the next level. Smart features now available include automated countertops that can rise and lower as needed, a range that connects to your smartphone and allows you to pre-heat the oven or receive reminders when the ramekin is done baking. While most of these gadgets and appliances are designed to make our lives easier, they can also have a positive impact on the overall look of your kitchen design. Automated cabinetry and drawers are especially attractive when it comes to achieving a streamlined, uninterrupted look. Smart Technology & Home Automation
Dark stains on cabinets and flooring are becoming increasingly popular, with 2020 being the year of the deep aubergine-colored kitchen. Whether you choose to opt for a dark-stained cabinet or an entirely matte black kitchen design, dark colors are the way to go when it comes to making an impact. The key to success with a dark-colored kitchen design is to accessorize with vibrant colors, such as teal-colored cabinets or pops of yellow on the countertop. Dark colors, when done right, can create a timeless and dramatic look, and are ideal for those who want to make a statement. Dark Stains on Cabinets & Flooring
Lighting is another great way to make a statement in your kitchen design. While natural lighting is best when possible, you can create an inviting atmosphere with the right lighting choices. Consider featuring layered lighting in your kitchen design, such as concealed under-cabinet lighting to highlight one focal point, or choose a set of pendant lights to gaily dance over your breakfast island. Accent lights are a great way to create mood lighting, be it through the use of neon signs or neon cord lights. Make a PRIMARY_Kitchen Design Statement with Lighting
Featuring visible hardware in your kitchen design can be a great way to introduce a sense of homely charm or trendy touches. For a more modern aesthetic, why not pick out the eye-catching shape of your handles and knobs and make them a feature in your kitchen. In terms of material, brass and chrome are both standard options, yet a new trend is introducing more exciting raw materials into the mix, such as porcelain, glass and hammered metals. Additionally, why not add some functional accents such as LED accent strips, niches, functional shelving, pot racks or suspended knife-block sets? Exposed Hardware & Functional Accents
Possibly one of the biggest trends this year is to bring the outdoors in. Natural elements in your kitchen design – from the furnishings to the wall and flooring – can create a cool and relaxed vibe that will instantly become the envy of your friends and family. Choose earthy elements such as natural stone, iron, wood, terracotta and even fibres or cork to add texture to the kitchen. Additionally, don’t be afraid to use playful botanicals to create an inviting atmosphere and add pops of color, such as live greenery, potted plants, tropical foliage or hanging baskets. Bringing the Outdoors In With Natural Elements
Mixing and matching your worktops and splashbacks is a great way to personalize your kitchen design. Start by playing around with different materials, such as marble and granite, to create a unique surface with plenty of character. If you’re looking for something a bit more daring, why not try pairing two different materials on your worktops and splashbacks, such as combining a marble roll-top with a quartz based splash-back? Or even combining two colors of the same material to make an eye-catching statement. Mix & Match Worktops & Splashbacks