As the heart of the home, the kitchen matters. Yes, it needs to work well for the way we use it. But with today’s open floorplans, and the amount of time we spend here, we also want it to look as good as it works.
No wonder kitchens are also among the most common renovations homeowners undertake!
For a look at what’s trending in the kitchen, we checked in with Azu Saavedra, Sr. Interior Architectural Designer with MAC Renovations.
- The off-white kitchen – Forget the stark white cabinets and counters; today, “off-white kitchens are becoming more and more popular,” Saavedra says. From creamy, warm whites to those with more of a putty tone, homeowners are also contrasting off-white with darker lower cabinets or island – think blues, charcoal, or even a dark wood. Some of those with high ceilings are even continuing the darker tones there.
- Designer range hoods – There was a time that custom built-in range hoods were largely crafted from stainless steel. While those are still with us, these statement pieces are becoming even more of a focal point above our stoves in materials like millwork, plaster, stone and tile, sometimes mixed with vibrant pops of colour. In some cases, making the hoods wider than the stove adds an even greater emphasis. “It gives the kitchen an extra design element and more of a custom look,” Saavedra says.
Range hoods are becoming even more of a focal point, in materials like millwork, plaster, stone and tile, sometimes mixed with vibrant pops of colour. MAC Renovation photo - Artwork and lighting – When it comes to integrating our kitchen into our living spaces, it makes sense to give the same consideration to these details as we would elsewhere. “I’m finding people are adding more artwork and making sure their design has space for it,” Saavedra notes. “Designers are also spending more time choosing artwork and lighting for the kitchen.” And while kitchen lighting has understandably been more task-oriented, we’re now also seeing features like movable lamps, sconces and accent lighting. “It really completes the space and I think for a long time people overlooked it.”
- Natural stone – While homeowners had moved away from natural stones like marble and granite over concerns about scratches or stains, the pendulum is swinging back with renewed appreciation for the virtually infinite and unique options available. “You know no one is going to have the same piece as you,” Saavedra notes. More are also comfortable that they don’t mind a few faint scratches on their countertop or backsplash over time.
Homeowners are finding a renewed appreciation for the unique options available from natural stones like marble and granite. MAC Renovation photo - Mixed metals – “People used to be afraid of mixing metals and now you don’t have to limit yourself,” Saavedra says. Not only does mixing it up allow for more design elements, but it opens the door to more product options, such as gold and black fixtures in addition to the more traditional polished chrome and brushed stainless. “I find that if you do just one finish, the kitchen can become dated.” Similarly, overall kitchen design is also becoming more eclectic – with elements of different styles, the space itself becomes more timeless.
‘People used to be afraid of mixing metals and now you don’t have to limit yourself,’ notes Azu Saavedra, Sr. Interior Architectural Designer with MAC Renovations. MAC Renovation photo
To learn more about the possibilities for your kitchen, visit macreno.com or call