Photography provided by Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery
Every year, new trends make their way into our homes. Kitchens are often subject to the whims of changing designs, and for good reason. They’re more than just a place for food — they’re a place for gathering with loved ones and entertaining guests. Plus, kitchens are often a deciding factor in home sales. To maximize your personal appreciation and your home’s value, consider these top five trends when updating an older space or designing a new one from scratch.
Artisanal Intelligence
Last year saw the rise of the machines — or at least the rise of the smart home, with appliances and accessories all connected through Wi-Fi, controlled with the touch of a finger or the sound of your voice. In 2019, technology maintains its center-stage focus all across the kitchen, with ovens that can be preheated on your way home from work, refrigerators that can share grocery lists and show you a real-time feed of what’s inside, and slow cookers that let you control temperature and cook time from your phone.
Au Natural
Interestingly, while smart appliances are all the rage, so too are more natural touches. Rustic, reclaimed woods are being used for countertops and backsplashes. Expect to see more butcher-block countertops as well as islands, tables and other furnishings with live wood edges. Raw materials such as stone are also increasingly popular for sinks, countertops, backsplashes and other decorative touches. The driving forces behind this trend? An interest in sustainability and a desire to feel closer to nature.
Matte Work
By now you’re no doubt aware of the appeal of matte black. It’s sleek, it’s sexy, it’s — boring? Perhaps just a bit. Although matte-black appliances and accessories are still very much in play, the spectrum has opened up to a wider variety of matte finishes, from beige to gray to pastels. Black is still bold, but everything doesn’t have to be so dramatic. If you’re looking to make your kitchen’s atmosphere lighter and brighter, take a step out of your comfort zone and add a splash of color.
In Plain Sight
Remember when vent hoods used to be statement pieces — stainless steel protruding from the ceiling to whisk away the scent and smoke of your meal? Forget it. Try integrating your hood into your kitchen’s decor by hiding it behind cabinetry or covering it with your backsplash material. Concealing the hood won’t reduce its effectiveness, but it will allow your other (smart, matte) appliances to take center stage. One option? Use reclaimed wood or shiplap to encase the vent, and you’ve crossed two trends off the list.
No Handles, No Problem
Integration is all the rage. Built-in, flush-mount and under-counter appliances are in vogue, because they contribute to a sleeker, more efficient kitchen. Echoing that concept, there’s also been a spike in the popularity of handleless cabinetry and drawers, with people opting instead for finger pulls. This look fits perfectly into minimalist kitchens, creating a streamlined environment for eating, entertaining and enjoying.
Visit your local Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery to find out how you can implement these trends in your kitchen or head to fergusonshowrooms.com/trends to see additional trends, find a show room near you and request an appointment.
