The kitchen has always been a place of both form and function, but now, modern kitchen designs are placing more emphasis on improved utility. More and more homeowners are choosing to incorporate the convenience of smart home technology into their kitchens. Some of the latest trends involve incorporating features like voice activated appliances, smartphone-controlled ovens, and built-in digital displays that can be used to view recipes and more. Many kitchen appliances now feature their own connected apps for controlling the appliance over a Wi-Fi connection. Smart refrigerators even let homeowners monitor expiration dates, ensure food safety, and spot trends in energy usage. With all of this technology at a homeowner's fingertips, they can look forward to an improved and more intuitive cooking experience, no matter the task.Focus on Functionality: Incorporating Smart Home Tech
One of the most popular kitchen design trends in 2021 is the use of multiple textures within the same space. Homeowners are now becoming more comfortable with combining finishes like wood, marble, and metal. For those looking to add a subtle visual twist to their kitchen, this trend adds an element of fluidity, tying together components in a way that’s both pleasing to the eye and interesting to the senses. Interior designers are also taking chances with fabrics. Natural elements such as sisal, jute, wool, and bamboo are now being incorporated into various kitchen settings. Matte surfaces are also becoming increasingly popular, and this trend is being seen in many of the more innovative kitchen designs being showcased this year.Mixing Textures: Introducing Natural Elements and Different Finishes
Natural light can bring a sense of warmth to any kitchen and take it from dank to delightful. For this reason, many contemporary kitchens are now designed with large windows that allow abundant sunlight to enter the room. In order to protect against fading, many homeowners are now installing window treatments or solar window film, thus making it easier for them to control the amount of light that enters the space. The use of glass cabinet doors is also increasing in popularity, as they provide an unobstructed view of the contents inside while simultaneously illuminating the area. This trend also works well in combination with lighting fixtures such as chandeliers and overhead pendant lamps.Maximizing Natural Light
2021’s kitchen design trends are focused on creating functional, multi-purpose kitchens. To meet this demand, homeowners are turning to ideas and designs that can help them maximize the amount of space they have available. When it comes to storage solutions, homeowners are increasingly turning to open shelving, countertop organizers, and even wheeled pots and pans racks. Many homeowners are adding additional storage to their kitchens by incorporating a seating area. This is ideal for when homeowners are entertaining guests or need a place to quickly sit down and enjoy a cup of coffee. Adding features like a breakfast nook or built-in bench seating can be a great way to maximize space while creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.Focused on Multi-Purpose Kitchen Spaces
In addition to the focus on multi-purpose kitchen spaces, homeowners are also seeking to optimize their traditional kitchen layouts. This allows for more efficient workflows, improved organization, and easier access to cooking essentials. In order to do this, homeowners are turning to features such as pull-out pantries, refrigerator drawers, and countertop corners with rotating storage. Features like full-extension drawers are also becoming increasingly popular due to their ability to maximize storage and make even the hardest to reach areas accessible.Optimization of Traditional Kitchen Layouts
Another hot kitchen design trend for 2021 is the use of bright colors in the kitchen. Homeowners are introducing accent colors in the form of wall paint, countertop surfaces, and kitchen accessories. Adding vibrantly colored accents or unique designs can bring any kitchen to life and make it truly stand out. For those looking to add a bit more of a personalized touch to their kitchen, introducing custom-made cabinets is a great way to go. These can come in a range of colors, finishes, and materials. They can also be outfitted with custom details to truly make the space your own.Pop of Color: Bright Accents and Personalization
For a modern yet timeless look, many homeowners are now introducing open shelving into their kitchens. Open shelving offers an abundance of storage, displaying everything from cookbooks to cookware. One of the main benefits of open shelving is that it can easily be customized to fit a homeowner’s individual taste. Open shelves can also be used as a decorative touch, allowing homeowners to show off items that reflect their personality. This trend also provides an opportunity to elevate the aesthetics of the kitchen by adding pieces like vibrant plants and decorated bowls.Creative Open Shelving
While sleek, touch-activated hardware has been trendy for some time now, physical hardware is making its way back into kitchen designs. Hardware made of polished metal such as brass, copper, and chrome provides a touch of modern sophistication that can take any kitchen from drab to delightful. Apart from providing an updated look to any kitchen, hardware can also help create a cohesive look by tying all the elements of the kitchen together. This is especially helpful when creating an open shelving system or incorporating a countertop banquette into the design.The Return of Physical Hardware
Kitchen islands are still popular, but kitchen design trends are turning towards innovative ways to incorporate them into kitchen spaces. Homeowners looking to add a kitchen island may opt for a glossy breakfast bar, a kitchen island counter, or even a multi-level island for an added touch of style. One trend homeowners are starting to explore is custom-built kitchen islands. This allows for islands to be built to perfectly fit a homeowner’s specified dimensions and blend in seamlessly with the existing décor. They can also be customized to feature a range of accessories, from open shelves and cookbook holders to knife racks and mini fridges.Kitchen Island Variations
While there are certainly many small details that can help create a unique look, the primary trends in kitchen design this year are focused on creating a lasting impression. From incorporating smart home technology and natural elements to maximizing natural light, optimising traditional kitchen layouts, and customizing the layout, 2021 is sure to be a year filled with innovative kitchen designs. In addition to the focus on functionality and aesthetics, 2021 also shines a spotlight on personalization and creating a space that is truly unique to the homeowner. Incorporating special details that reflect a homeowner’s individual taste is the perfect way to make a kitchen stand out while adding a touch of special character to the home.Primary Kitchen Design Trends: Creating a Lasting Impression