#Top 5 Kitchen Design Trends

Top 5 Kitchen Design Trends

We asked our kitchen design expert Dimitra, to share her top 5 modern kitchen trends for 2014

We’re beginning to steer away from all-white kitchens that were very popular over the past few years and are now moving towards a more dynamic feel incorporating natural materials, organic colours, exciting fittings and interesting tiles for splash-backs.

1. Two Tone Kitchens

In moving away from the safer option of a white only kitchen, we are seeing an emerging trend in the introduction of more than one colour or texture being used in a design. Our most recent kitchen renovation in Albert Park featured a bold black bench top and central cabinetry, while a sandy beige softens the look on either side.

Albert Park kitchen-example of colour zone design. (See more images here )

Balwyn kitchen- example of timber / paint combination. (See more images here )

2. Lighting

Planning your lighting effectively in the kitchen should be of utmost importance however, this does not mean compromising on the overall design and look of the space. Wall lights and pendant lights are a trend that is here to stay, offering both practicality and character to the design. One of our recent kitchen renovations in Port Melbourne featured very stylish and industrial pendant lights over the island bench.

Port Melbourne- example of innovative pendants lights used over the kitchen bench. (See full kitchen profile here )

3. Splash backs

For a long time, simple, standard glass splash backs have been the go-to option. In 2014, we’re experiencing many clients requesting other options, for example mirrored or tiled splash backs. Mirrored splash backs can add an elegant finish to the overall design while also working as a tool to bring the ‘outdoors in’, as seen in a recent Perini Kitchen Renovation in Richmond.

Richmond kitchen- example of mirrored splash back tiles bringing the outdoor in (See more images here )

A tiled splashback in the kitchen, while adding texture and interest, can also create a definite ‘Wow’ factor. Bisazza mosaics are becoming more and more popular for use as a splashback due to Bisazza’s unique ease of maintenance and stunning array of patterns and colours available.

Bisazza Morris Oro Bianco used on this splash back. See more Bisazza mosaics here

Evoking old world charm with a sophisticated and clean look, subway tiles are making a comeback in the world of kitchen design, adding a sense of texture and dimension. Available in an array of colours from neutrals, vibrant hues and even with a mirror finish, there is a subway tile that will suit your home’s look.

Subway white tiles. See more colours here

Bevelled mirror subway tiles. See more colours here

4. Use of natural materials and textures

Creating a textural experience in the home, we’re seeing a shift back from industrial materials towards nature in the use of timber, marble and granite. Combining textures, such as timber and marble creates a soft, sophisticated look in the home while also creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Most natural materials however, do require an amount of ongoing maintenance, for those who appreciate the look of marble but not the added maintenance, Caesarstone’s Supernatural range is the answer: imitating the look of natural stone with the added benefits of a quartz bench top.

Caesarstone Calacatta Nuvo. See more Caesarstone colours here

5. Accessorising your Kitchen

Functionality and practicality should always come first when planning your new kitchen. Brands such as Blum, Hettich and Hafele specialise in kitchen organisation and storage systems to assist in making your kitchen both user friendly and stylish! For example, corners are no longer an issue with Hafele’s LeMans Corner unit, which provides sturdy and sleek trays that pull out from the corner, allowing maximum use of otherwise wasted space.

Need help with your kitchen design? We’re here to help, from designing and plan layout through to choosing fittings, appliances and colour schemes. Your complete renovation from concept to creation and every step in-between. Call Dimitra to discuss your project (03) 9429 6399